How to Find A Good Theatre Camp For Your Child
Do you have a child who loves to perform? Are your kids always playing dress up and imaginative games? Or perhaps you wish your child was more creative or confident. Whatever the scenario, theatre camp can be a wonderful opportunity for learning and fun.
But not every theatre camp is the same or offers the same type of experience. If you’re looking for an authentic theatre camp that teaches all aspects of the performing arts including singing, dancing, acting, lighting, costume design, set design, and more, you need to consider the opportunities with a discerning eye. Here’s how to find a good theatre camp for your child.
What to Look For in a Theatre Camp
Professionality. Anyone can run a day camp with a focus on theatre, but it takes a professional theatre company to create and implement an authentic experience for students. Look for camps offered by theatre companies that are active in the community, providing regular shows and entertainment experiences. Consider the source and location of the camp.
Qualified instructors. Find out who the instructors will be and what kind of qualifications they have. Look for a camp with instructors who are employed actors, directors, and choreographers. Consider their level of experience and what they have to offer in terms of theatre instruction for children and teens. In addition to their theatre qualifications and experience, inquire about their educational background. Having theatrical talent does not necessarily mean you can teach it to others.
Variety of theatrical elements. Look for a camp that teaches a wide variety of theatrical elements. Learning how to put on a show should include acting, dancing, and singing, but also set design, costume design, choreography, lighting, directing, and other aspects of theatre. When children have the opportunity to experience all of these elements they not only learn how it all works together, but they can find their own unique talent and where they fit in a production.
Creative opportunities. Theatre camp should allow children to be creative. Not only will they learn lines, songs, and choreography created by someone else, they should have the opportunity to create their own. Look for a camp that allows students to design and perform an original show from their own creative minds. Not only will they learn so much more, they will also remember the experience for the rest of their lives.
Specific elements. If your child or teen has a specific aspect of theatre that they wish to work on, look for a camp that includes that element. Whether they want to focus on dance and choreography, creating sets, or vocal technique, select a camp that teaches what they want to learn. This is especially important if you have a teen who is considering theatre as a career.
The Performing Arts Academy at the Forestburgh Playhouse Summer Education Series
For an authentic theatre experience, the Performing Arts Academy at the Forestburgh Playhouse provides summer camp opportunities. Students will have the opportunity to learn acting skills, vocal techniques, and professional dance choreography, as well as set and costume design. Each week of camp is concluded with an original production by the students.
Located in Forestburgh, New York in the Catskill Mountains, the playhouse is one of many tourist attractions in the area. Bring the whole family and spend some time taking in the scenic views of the mountains and river while the kids enjoy theatre camp.
Check out our summer education series and register now while spots are still available. Theatre camp at the Forestburgh Playhouse is an unforgettable experience you don’t want your kids to miss.