Today we’d like to introduce you to Laura Bevier.
Hi Laura, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Looking back, it feels like the stars aligned at exactly the right time. After nearly 20 years in recruiting, sales, human resources, and leadership, I was ready to build something of my own. I loved helping organizations build strong teams and develop people, but I wanted to create something that would make a lasting impact in my own community.
Then life pointed me in a direction I never expected. My youngest daughter was born in March 2020, just as the world shut down because of COVID. Like so many children her age, she spent her earliest years with very little interaction outside of our immediate family. As she grew, she was naturally shy and hesitant in new social situations. I began searching for a drama program that would help her build confidence, communication skills, and friendships, but I could not find a program that truly focused on developing those life skills
Then I discovered Drama Kids, and everything clicked. Here was a program that was not just about putting on a play. It was about helping children become confident communicators, creative thinkers, and resilient young people. It brought together everything I was looking for, the opportunity to own a business, make a meaningful difference in children’s lives, and serve families in my community.
In late 2025, I took a leap of faith and purchased a Drama Kids franchise. Today, we offer after school classes, camps, and community programs throughout Metro Detroit. The most rewarding part of my work is watching children who once stood quietly on the sidelines discover their voice, step outside their comfort zone, and realize they are capable of so much more than they imagined.
Looking back, I set out to build a business that mattered. What I found was the opportunity to help children discover confidence that will serve them for the rest of their lives.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely has not been a smooth road, but I think that is true for most entrepreneurs. One of the biggest challenges has been introducing a brand that was new to Metro Detroit. Every school partnership, class, camp, and family has been built one relationship at a time.
Starting a business also means wearing a lot of hats. On any given day, I might be recruiting teachers, meeting with school administrators, marketing classes, answering parent emails, or teaching students. It can be challenging, but it is also incredibly rewarding.
Every challenge has reminded me why I started this business. Watching children grow in confidence and discover their voice makes all of the hard work worthwhile.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Drama Kids – Metro Detroit West?
Drama Kids Metro Detroit West is a developmental drama program, not a production drama program. Our focus is not on casting the perfect show. Our focus is on helping children develop confidence, public speaking, communication, teamwork, creativity, leadership, and resilience through drama, all while having fun.
We offer weekly after school classes, community classes, and summer camps for children ages 3 to 12 throughout Metro Detroit. Our classes meet once a week and provide a fun, encouraging environment where every child can grow.
What truly sets us apart is that there are no auditions, no tryouts, and no cuts. Every child participates, every child is encouraged, and every child has the opportunity to grow at their own pace. Whether a child is naturally outgoing or just beginning to find their voice, they belong at Drama Kids.
At the end of the day, we are about so much more than drama. We are helping children become confident communicators, capable public speakers, supportive teammates, creative thinkers, kind leaders, and resilient problem solvers. We like to say we are building good humans.
To learn more about our programs, visit dramakids.com/mi1 or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok at @dramakidsmi.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I rely on a combination of technology and people. My Outlook Calendar is my lifeline because it keeps both my business and family organized. I also use ChatGPT, Claude, Canva, and ClickUp every day to help with brainstorming, writing, marketing, project management, and staying organized.
One of the biggest advantages of owning a Drama Kids franchise is the incredible support system behind it. I received outstanding training when I became an owner, and that support has continued every step of the way. Whenever I have a question or need advice, our corporate team is just a phone call, slack message, or email away. Having experienced mentors who are invested in my success has been invaluable.
I’ve learned that you do not have to have all the answers yourself. The best leaders continue to learn, ask questions, and surround themselves with people who are willing to share their knowledge.
Pricing:
- Pricing varies by program and location because we partner with several school districts and community organizations, each with their own structure. Our goal is to provide high quality developmental drama programs that are accessible to as many families as possible.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://dramakids.com/novi-livonia-canton-mi/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dramakidsmi/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dramakidsmi
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurarupe/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@dramakidsmi
