Take Note

One of the most common questions we hear is, "Why do we reuse or rework costumes when we are still paying performer fees?" This is an excellent question and reflects a thoughtful concern from parents and supporters of the program. The reality is that costuming is just one part of what performer fees cover — and even though we aim for stunning, custom looks, we also work hard to be good stewards of our resources. Costumes are one of the largest recurring expenses in show choir, often involving custom manufacturing, design consultations, fabric and pattern work, labor, shipping, and necessary alterations throughout the season. Because we strive to keep fees as low as possible while maintaining high-quality performances, we reuse or adapt costumes when we can — which saves money for other critical needs like choreography, music, and technology. Additionally, reusing pieces allows us to maintain a consistent and polished look while allocating funds toward building essential, long-term resources for the program. Our goal is always to balance the need for high visual impact on stage with our responsibility to use funds wisely for the benefit of all students. 

Some families have asked about the technology we’ve recently added and how that impacts our budget and fees. Northwest Rankin Show Choir is actively investing in long-term technology resources that will enhance performances for years to come — investments that many other programs have had the chance to build slowly over time. For example, our LED panels, which were used in shows this year, represent a $30,000 investment. These panels add an incredible professional look to our sets, making our shows competitive and exciting. These were purchased to benefit all NWR choirs — middle school and high school — for years to come. However, this is only phase one of our technology plan. We are actively looking at expanding the LED panel system and adding professional lighting instruments and special effects equipment, which will further improve the quality of our shows. Because of these significant investments, we work hard to save in other areas by reusing materials, being creative with costumes, and seeking additional fundraising opportunities. Technology purchases like these are not covered by school funds or district budgets — they come directly from our organizational planning and community support. 

We work very hard to keep fees manageable by offering multiple fundraising opportunities throughout the year to help both the program as a whole and individual student accounts. Our monthly profit share nights (such as Bojangle’s and Newk’s Spirit Nights) help raise ongoing funds for program-wide expenses. We also host major events like MusicFest, which is not only a great competitive opportunity for visiting choirs but also a significant fundraiser for NWR Choral Music. One of our biggest fundraisers is Sweet Encores, our annual Dessert Theatre event, which highlights solo and group performances and brings together our community in support of the program. In addition, we run individual and group sales-based fundraisers, such as Double Good Popcorn, Tervis Tumblers, and others that are announced seasonally. These efforts are essential to offsetting costs like contest fees, technology purchases, travel, and general program expenses. When families and students participate in fundraising efforts, they directly reduce the burden of fees on all members of the program. It’s important to know that the funds raised through MusicFest and Sweet Encores help everyone, and individual fundraisers can be used to offset specific student payments as well. Without these fundraisers, the cost of running such a large and competitive program would be significantly higher. 

Another great question we get is about shirts and apparel: "What shirts are we paying for, and why do we need them?" Each year, performer fees include rehearsal shirts, which are worn for practices, workshops, and camps to promote a sense of unity and professionalism. In addition, we order special shirts for MusicFest, which help identify our students and volunteers when hosting other schools and managing event logistics. We also purchase shirts for parent volunteers, stage crew, and equipment teams so everyone is easily identifiable at large events, both for safety and organizational purposes. Having matching, professional shirts helps represent our program well when traveling, competing, and hosting — it’s part of presenting ourselves as a cohesive, unified group.