Performance students, meet Universal magic
Universal Studios Performance Tours & Performing Arts Workshops
Bring your students’ talents to the stages and streets of Universal Orlando Resort or Universal Studios
Hollywood! Whether your group is a band, choir, orchestra, dance company, or theatre program, Universal offers unforgettable opportunities to perform, learn, and grow inside one of the world’s most dynamic entertainment environments.
Where student performance trips meet
blockbuster-level inspiration.
From high energy stage performances to immersive, professionally led workshops, Universal’s performance opportunities allow students to step into the world of movie making and discover what it really takes to create incredible entertainment. Educational Travel Adventures makes it easy. We craft custom itineraries that combine thrilling Universal fun with meaningful performing arts experiences designed to elevate your students’ confidence, creativity, and artistry.
Perform with Universal Magic
Why Choose Universal for a Performance Tour?
Perform in Iconic Universal Venues
Your students will feel the excitement of performing in front of real audiences at unforgettable locations such as Universal CityWalk Stage or along the lively parade route inside Universal Studios Florida.
Hands On Workshops by Industry Pros
Universal’s workshops are created by entertainment professionals and align with National Core Arts Standards. Band and choir students can explore the art of adding sound to real animated movie scenes, and dancers can learn the real choreography used in Universal Shows and practice audition technique under pressure.
Custom Itineraries Built for Your Group
Every trip is tailored to your program’s goals, schedule, and interests. Whether you want a performance focus, a workshop heavy schedule, or a balance of both, we will design the ideal trip.
Unforgettable Theme Park Adventure
Performances and workshops are paired with plenty of time to enjoy Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, and Universal Volcano Bay. These parks create shared memories that build community and inspire students long after they return home.
Stress Free Planning with ETA
Our team manages all logistics including lodging, meals, transportation, performance scheduling, workshop registration, and more so directors can focus on their students.
Universal Performance Programs & Workshops
Universal’s performance programs give students real experience on stage through live shows and hands-on workshops. Participants strengthen key performance skills, build confidence in front of an audience, and work directly with industry professionals. These programs also give students a look at how entertainment is created behind the scenes and help them apply their training in practical performance settings.
For Bands, Orchestras and Choirs
Whether your group performs on stage, marches through the park, or participates in a workshop, each program is designed to support skill development and create memorable experiences.
STARS Stage Performances
Bands, orchestras, and choirs can take the spotlight at Universal CityWalk, performing at the dynamic Lagoon Stage with professional sound equipment and a built-in audience.
STARS Parade Performances & Marching Opportunities
Marching bands have the unique opportunity to perform and learn to maintain musical and visual composure for a live audience, energizing the park with live music as they march through themed areas of Universal Studios Florida.
Sound Design: Music and the Art of Foley Workshop
Students learn how professionals create sound for film by layering Foley, sound effects, and music to bring scenes to life. They record, synchronize, and produce sound just like the pros and get a chance to watch their creation back in real time
For Dance, Drill and Show Choir
Dancers and show choirs can sharpen their skills and take the stage through Universal’s dedicated performance programs. Each experience offers valuable training and live performance opportunities.
Dance is UNIVERSAL Workshops
Choose from Master Class, Audition Workshop, or Custom Choreography sessions. Students learn from working industry performers in high energy classes tailored to their skill level.Workshops can be focused on audition technique or, students can learn actual choreography from Universal Shows.
STARS Stage Performances
Dance companies, show choirs, bands, and musical theatre performers can bring their show stopping numbers to life on Universal’s outdoor stage, performing in front of enthusiastic audiences from all over the world.
Two Destinations, One Magical Experience
Universal Orlando or Universal Studios Hollywood?
Both locations feature Universal Youth Programs that combine performance, education, and real industry insight. Schools can choose the destination that aligns best with their group size, location, and artistic goals.
Universal Orlando Resort | Orlando, FL
- Larger Scale and Variety: Two major theme parks plus Universal CityWalk provide more venues, workshop options, and performance opportunities.
- Best for Large Groups: Ideal for bands, choirs, dance teams, and ensembles wanting multiple performance or workshop experiences.
- Expanded Offerings: A wider selection of STARS performances and educational workshops including sound design and dance master classes
- Performance Highlights: Stage performances at CityWalk, parade or street style marching routes inside the parks, and hands-on workshops with entertainment professionals.
Universal Studios Hollywood | Hollywood, CA
- Intimate and Accessible: A smaller footprint that offers a focused performance experience and easier movement through the park.
- West Coast Convenience: Perfect for schools located closer to California or seeking less travel time.
- CityWalk Performance Setting: Groups perform on the 5 Towers Stage at Universal CityWalk Hollywood, known for hosting professional live events and concerts.
- Performance Highlights: On-stage opportunities at CityWalk, a behind-the-scenes film and production environment, and optional workshops tailored to acting, movement, or audition skills.
- Broader Film Industry Learning: Student groups can extend their Universal experience with additional film-industry activities in Los Angeles, including visits like the Warner Brothers Studio Tour or hands-on production workshops that deepen their understanding of careers behind the camera.
Sample Universal Performance Itinerary
Every trip is customizable with ETA. This is an example of a three day tour.
Day 1
- Arrival in Orlando
- Check in at your Universal Orlando partner hotel
- Explore Universal CityWalk
- Group dinner
Day 2
- STARS Performance at CityWalk or along the parade route
- Enjoy Universal Studios Florida
- Experience major attractions such as Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, Transformers: The Ride 3 D, Revenge of the Mummy & more!
- Dinner inside the park or at CityWalk
Day 3
- Workshop Experience such as Sound Design, Dance is Universal, or another choice
- Explore Islands of Adventure park
- Evening departure
Universal Studios Performance Trip Planning FAQs
What types of student performing arts groups can perform at Universal?
Bands, orchestras, choirs, marching bands, dance teams, drill teams, show choirs, and musical theatre programs are all eligible.
Do we need to audition for Universal Performance Opportunities?
Most Universal performances require a video audition or musical recording. Workshops generally do not require an audition.
What is included in an Educational Travel Adventures Universal Performance Tour?
Your custom performance tour may include:
- Student park tickets
- Workshop registration
- Performance scheduling and coordination
- Hotel accommodations
- Motorcoach or airfare
- Meals
- Dedicated ETA tour support
How far in advance should we plan our Universal Studios Performance Trip?
We recommend planning 9 to 12 months ahead for performances and 3 to 6 months ahead for workshops. Spring dates fill quickly.
Can we combine Universal with other Orlando or LA attractions?
Yes. Many student groups in Orlando add Disney, SeaWorld, or educational stops such as the Kennedy Space Center. Student groups in LA often visit the Santa Monica Pier, Hollywood Boulevard, or the Warner Brothers Studio tour.
What time of year is best for a Universal performance tour?
Universal performance programs run year-round, but the best times to visit are during the fall and early spring when crowds are lighter and temperatures are more comfortable. Many groups avoid peak holiday periods and summer due to higher attendance and limited performance availability. Booking early helps secure preferred dates.
How large does our student group need to be?
Most Universal performance and workshop programs require a minimum number of students. Requirements vary by program, but many performance opportunities work best for medium to large ensembles. We can walk you through the specific minimums for your group type.
How long are the Universal performances and workshops?
Performance and workshop durations can range from 20 minutes to 90 minutes depending on the program. We help you plan your schedule so your group has enough time for both park experiences and workshop sessions.
Can we choose our performance time?
Universal assigns time slots based on availability, group size, and program type. We submit your preferred timeframe and do our best to secure a slot that fits your itinerary.
Can we combine a performing and non-performing itinerary?
Yes. Mixed itineraries are common. Some students can perform while others take part in the educational workshops or enjoy the parks.
Can chaperones or families watch the performance?
Yes. Performances at Universal CityWalk can be seen without admission, or inside the park can be viewed by park guests and families who have admission for that day.
Do you plan Universal Studios trips for non-performing students?
Yes. Along with our performance tours and workshops, we also plan Universal Studios school trip packages for student groups who are not performing. These itineraries focus on exploring the parks, enjoying attractions, educational workshops, and experiencing all the entertainment Universal has to offer.
Do you plan performance tours to other locations beyond Universal Studios?
Yes we do! We help performance groups not only explore new cities like New York City, Los Angeles and Houston, we also help them travel to performance events like the Macy’s Day Parade or Bands of America events. Learn more about our other educational performance tour opportunities.
Plan Your Universal Performance Tour now
With more than three decades of expertise in student group travel, Educational Travel Adventures makes your Universal performance experience smooth, safe, and truly memorable. We offer convenient payment options, experienced Tour Managers, and complete planning support from your first call to the final performance. Talk to a Performance Tour Specialist.
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