Performing

Arts

Lessons!

Ages

4-18!

28 South Unionville Avenue, Markham

 

Stars of the Stage is a performing arts program designed to inspire, challenge, and nurture the creativity of every child. Founded by Mr. James, a performer with over 25 years of experience in singing, acting, and dancing, Stars of the Stage offers a unique opportunity for children to explore and develop their talents in a fun, supportive, and professional environment.

At Stars of the Stage, we believe that every child has the potential to shine. Our programs are designed to help students gain confidence, develop discipline, and learn the fundamentals of performance while having fun and building lifelong memories. Whether it's through musical theatre, hip hop, jazz, or acrobatics, our classes are tailored to meet the needs of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced performers.

What sets us apart is our commitment to providing a personalized experience for every student. Our teachers, led by Mr. James, use humor, relatability, and passion to engage students, making them feel seen and supported every step of the way. We focus on creating unforgettable experiences that go beyond just learning dance steps or lines. It’s about fostering a love for the arts and giving children the tools to express themselves and build confidence both on and off the stage.

We also place great emphasis on the quality of our performances. Each year, students get the chance to showcase their hard work at our December and June performances, allowing them to shine in front of an audience, and make lasting memories with friends and family. Our professional approach ensures that every performance is not only fun but a testament to the effort, skill, and creativity that each child brings to the stage.

At Stars of the Stage, we don’t just teach the arts – we create the stars of tomorrow!

School production of "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" on stage with performers in colorful costumes
Group of children and teenagers with one adult, all wearing black tops and jeans, standing outdoors on a grassy area with trees and a cityscape in the background.
Children performing on stage with colorful confetti falling, one playing a guitar, others watching.
Children performing in a theatrical play, dressed as wolves with fur hats and plaid shirts, on a stage with a backdrop of a tree silhouette.
Group of young dancers in plaid shirts and jeans posing in front of a blue CARE banner.
A person in a purple shirt and black leggings performing a yoga pose on a pink yoga mat, with legs raised vertically and hands supporting the lower back.
Kid performing a handstand on a stage, wearing a black shirt and denim shorts, with another kid watching nearby.
Two people wearing pink jackets with "Pink Ladies" written on the back, walking in dim lighting.
Girls performing a dance on stage in blue shirts and black skirts, holding hands.
Dancer performing on stage with vibrant lighting, wearing a colorful dress, surrounded by a seated audience clapping.
Person performing a handstand on a pink mat, wearing a pink top and black pants
Group of happy children with hands raised, celebrating on a stage.
Child posing confidently in a blue "Stars of the Stage" T-shirt, black pants, and black sneakers, with arms crossed and a white background.
Child in gray cat costume with face paint, fluffy ears, and fur detailing, posing playfully.
Children dressed in costumes, some as princesses and others as knights, standing in a line on a stage in a room with black curtains and wooden floor.
Person doing a wide-legged forward bend on a yoga mat
Children participating in a theatrical rehearsal, dressed in costumes, with one child holding a sword, and a person dressed as a chef in the center, in a room with wooden flooring and large windows.
Two young women having a heated conversation, one gesturing with her hands and the other looking upset, against a black background.
Young woman in a white dress standing on stage with blue lighting, audience in foreground.
Colorful graffiti-style mural with the phrase "Stars of the Stage" on a brick wall, featuring bright colors and music-themed elements.
Five young children dressed in black and gold knight costumes with red capes, posing with toy swords and shield, standing in a row against a red wall with framed photos, in a room with a wooden floor and a window with blinds.
Stage scene with "Welcome Back Rydell" sign, "Grease" theme, and performers in 1950s-style clothing around a red car prop.
Child posing energetically with arms outstretched, wearing a blue "Stars of the Stage" t-shirt, black pants, and black sneakers.
Child in Egyptian costume on stage with pyramids and curtains in the background
A person wearing a microphone headset and sitting on stage under blue lighting.
Group of children dressed as medieval knights with swords and capes, standing in a dance or performace studio with a wooden floor, red wall art, and framed pictures. Some children are wearing crowns.
Six young girls dressed in colorful princess costumes with masks, standing in front of black curtains, smiling and posing for a photo.
Empty room with wooden floor, white walls, ceiling lights, a few folding chairs, folding tables, and a clothing rack.
Child in a furry costume performing on stage with a spooky backdrop, featuring silhouettes of a tree, bat, and crow.
Two young women with dark hair and wearing black shirts, standing against a black background. The woman on the left is smiling and making a frame with her hands around her face. The woman on the right is frowning, with her fists raised and a determin
Four young women dressed in costume standing in a dance studio with mirrors, wood floors, and large windows, appearing to be in a theatrical or dance rehearsal.
Two dancers in plaid shirts and jeans performing on stage with a logo in the background.
Person on stage raising an arm, wearing a blue top and white shorts, dramatic lighting.
Children dressed as medieval knights and princesses practicing a play or costume activity in a room with a wooden floor, along with a person dressed as a chef and a woman in white. Some children are wearing masks, capes, and armor, with a window in t
Group of young girls wearing black t-shirts and jeans dancing outdoors during daylight, with a bus and outdoor shelter in the background.
A young woman with red hair wearing a black shirt appears to be singing or speaking with her hand on her chest and an expressive look, against a dark background.
Children dressed as knights and princesses participating in a theatrical performance in a dance studio.
A young woman with shoulder-length brown hair and blue eyes, wearing a black sleeveless top, looking off to the side with a slight smile in front of a dark background.
Women and children dressed in medieval costumes practicing in a dance studio with large windows and black curtains.
Empty dance studio with wooden floor, wall-length mirror, folding chairs, and a small table with speakers.
Smiling man in a black jacket with faux fur hood

About Mr. James – Owner and CEO of Stars of the Stage

Meet Mr. James, the passionate and experienced founder of Stars of the Stage. With over 25 years of professional experience in singing, acting, and dancing, Mr. James has honed his craft on some of the world’s biggest stages. His journey as a former sought out performer shaped the dynamic and high-energy teaching style he brings to every class, ensuring his students not only learn the fundamentals of performance but also experience the excitement of professional artistry.

For over 15 years, Mr. James has dedicated himself to teaching children and cultivating their creative potential. Whether through singing, dancing, or acting, he knows how to spark passion and self-expression in young learners. His ability to relate to children is what truly makes him stand out. Humor, patience, and understanding are central to his approach, and he consistently creates an environment where kids feel both supported and challenged.

What makes Mr. James truly unique is his emphasis on connection. His goal is not just to teach dance, drama, or music but to build lasting relationships with his students. He believes that fostering this personal connection allows students to feel comfortable and confident as they learn and grow. By engaging with each child on a personal level, Mr. James ensures every student has the opportunity to shine and express themselves authentically.

He deeply cares about the quality of every show and the growth of every student. From choreography to performance preparation, Mr. James is involved in every aspect of the program, always striving to provide a high-caliber learning experience. He sets a high bar for both performance standards and personal growth, and his students benefit from his commitment to excellence. For Mr. James, teaching is not just a job—it’s a mission to inspire and create unforgettable experiences for every child that steps onto the stage.

  • Shoutout to Mr. James for 3 amazing years of hip-hop with Clayton! You’ve given him way more than dance moves — you’ve built real connections, sparked creativity, and sparked a lifelong passion in Clayton. Thank you for believing in your students, pushing them to shine, and making every class unforgettable. We’re so grateful for the joy, confidence, and passion you’ve brought into Clayton’s life!

    Elisa

  • Where do I even begin with Mr. James? Honestly, it’s hard to put into words just how incredible he is—not just as a teacher, but as a person. From the moment you walk into one of his classes, the energy is something special. There’s laughter, focus, and this unspoken respect the kids have for him—and it’s all because of the way he teaches and leads with kindness, passion, and yes, that ever-present smile!

    Keshia

  • My daughter was very shy and afraid to try new things. We went to a trial musical theatre class and Mr James made her feel comfortable from day 1. He helped to build up her confidence and skills and now she can't wait to go to her class each week. Mr. James is one of my daughter's favorite teachers now and she constantly begs us to keep doing musical theatre. We can't wait to see her continue to grow. Mr James not only teaches but inspires the kids to be confident and the best they can be! Mr. James is the BEST.

    Gladys Ruiz

  • Hayley has so much fun dancing with Mr. James, she tells us that he is the best hiphop teacher ever! We are so lucky to have found Mr. James as her hiphop teacher, not only is he great at teaching and making his classes enjoyable for the kids, he is also sensitive and caring towards the children. We are so appreciative of how Mr. James helped to ignite Hayley’s confidence in dancing! It’s one of the few classes where she is excited to head to and is always happy coming out of! Thank you Mr. James!!

    Vean Hung

  • James has truly helped my son come out of his artistic shell. Not only is he incredibly knowledgeable, but he does it all from the heart and it really shows!

    Diana Valenzuela

  • Mr. James, thank you for being such a light. Your encouragement, enthusiasm, and belief in your students are changing lives—just like you’ve done for Valentina. We look forward to many more years of growing, singing, dancing, and believing together.

    Tatiana Pacheco

  • Since my last theatre academy shut down I was longing for the stage. It wasn’t until my first rehearsal with Mr James when I knew that I found the perfect instructor. He has pushed me to become the actress I am today and I am forever grateful for his words of wisdom, hilarious moments and constant encouragement. He is a phenomenal teacher and I can’t wait for the seasons to come!

    Chapelle Pauwels - Student

Broadway Musical Theatre Camp registration is now open!

Colorful poster advertising a Broadway musical theater camp called 'Stars of the Stage,' taking place August 25-28 from 9 AM to 1 PM at 28 South Unionville Avenue, Markham. The poster features vibrant rainbow background, musical notes, stars, and event details.

Musical Theatre classes starting in September 2025 and January 2026!

Sign Up For Our 4 Week Trial Classes!

RSVP To Our September Open House!

Announcement poster for an open house event themed 'Stars of the Stage', occurring on September 8th from 5:30 to 8:30 PM at 28 South Unionville Avenue, Markham, Unit 2102. The poster features colorful, graffiti-style text with paint splashes, a young girl in a wolf costume, and a boy wearing a blue t-shirt with the event logo.

Contact Us

Child wearing a blue "Stars of the Stage" t-shirt, black pants, and sneakers, standing with arms crossed.