We had the good fortune of connecting with SHAR-REESE ALFRED and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi SHAR-REESE, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I started A’Starz Studio to teach children self-confidence and create a platform to engage children in developing their skills in music and acting for theatre and film. I wanted to provide an opportunity for growth and skilled training that these students may not receive in their local schools. Often, children are overlooked because they have not honed their talents and gifts to the expectation of teachers whose theatre programs compete in local and national competitions. Additionally, children are often bullied by peers for being different. I wanted to create a multi-ethnic theatre and music studio that is led by the “Culture of Love”. At A’Starz Studio, we aim to develop intrinsic confidence for students of all levels. Our goal is for them to not only love theatre but also to love themselves and one another in the process.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
A’Starz Studio stands out due to its consistent mentorship. When I first started the studio, my mentee Malaika Taylor was just 13 years old. She received training from me and eventually became a dedicated stage manager for all of our shows. Another mentee, Ashland Carey, also received training in technical aspects such as learning lights and sound operation. Both former actors in our productions, I am particularly proud that the actors at A’Starz Studio are multi-skilled, as they can play instruments, sing, dance, and act. Most, if not all, of them are quadruple threats. I credit the success of our shows and training to the wonderful mentees I have been blessed with. The biggest challenge in this business is marketing, but we have managed to overcome it by receiving excellent referrals from our most loyal clients, such as the Alvarez, Le, Segel, Turner and DeGuzman, families. As a business owner, I have learned many lessons, including the importance of prioritizing children over tuition. Every year, we provide multiple scholarships to help children who cannot afford classes. I believe that A’Starz Studio is the best-kept secret in Georgia. We have produced a multitude of plays and MITI shows such as Annie Jr., Moana Jr., Matilda Jr. and we are currently casting for Mean Girls Jr. We offer weekly classes and summer camps that train students to perform in big shows to help children build their confidence by excelling in the arts. We are currently hoping to encourage more boys to join our shows and have created a campaign to support our efforts to donate please visit our website at www.astarzstudio.com. Our motto is: “We create Starz, one show at a time”.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, if one of my best friends were visiting Atlanta, we would start at The Chateau Elan (Braselton) for two relaxing days of pampering. Then catch a show The Lovely Fox Theatre or with Live Arts Theatre (www.liveartstheatre.org) and have dinner downtown at Nan Thai or The Sun Dial. We would spend a day shopping at The Avalon (Alpharetta) and spend time gaming at Your 3rd Spot. Finally, we would attend my church Futures (Alpharetta Campus).
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My parents, Maurice and Sharon Alfred, have both played an instrumental role in shaping my career choices. Since the age of 4, I was groomed for leadership and the arts. While my mom insisted on cultivating my skills in theatre, music, and dance, my father allowed me to shadow him in his company, Alfred Entertainment. This provided me with the opportunity to learn about the ins and outs of the entertainment business and to meet and work with a plethora of celebrities in the music and entertainment industry. Also, my God-mother Pastor Michelle Bradshaw (Playwright & Songwriter) mentored me in honing my skills in theatre production. Finally, I must shout out my Fiance and Creative Director Byron Lynum. His designs for our marketing has elevated our presence in the community!
Website: https://www.astarzstudio.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astarzstudio
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/astarzstudio
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/astarzstudio
Image Credits
Design for all images: Byron Lynum (Creative Director)