Signups begin for annual children's theatre camp

Christine Davis Mantai

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Above, "Beauty and the Beast," a previous performance of the Playground Drama Camp

Area children will once again be introduced to the magical world of live theatre, and be part of the cast or crew of one of two musical productions, when the curtain rises on the 2013 season of Playground Drama Day Camp at SUNY Fredonia.

The annual program, which has quickly become one of the highlights of the university's summer season, once again offers two sessions to better maximize each child's abilities and experiences. Week One, which runs Aug. 12-17 and is for children ages 12-17, will be highlighted by the presentation of “High School Musical Jr.” The second camp, Aug. 19-24, is for children ages 8-12 and is capped by Roald Dahl’s “Willy Wonka Kids.” Children 12 years of age are eligible to attend both camps.

Rehearsals are held each morning and are followed by a bag lunch brought from home. Afternoons feature an exciting rotation of music, dance and technical theatre classes, along with fresh air, snacks and fun activities. All children become members of the Playground Players troupe and receive daily snacks, a free T-shirt and two tickets to the show.

The camp’s pre-show drop-off of 8:30 a.m. and the Daily Showcase that runs 4:55 to 5:15 p.m. provide flexible drop-off and pick-up options.

Both camps conclude on their respective Saturdays, which are devoted to preparations for the Main Stage event on the Marvel Theatre stage. Technical rehearsal begins at 9 a.m. and is followed by a bag lunch brought from home. Technical and dress rehearsals start at 1 p.m. Doors for the production open at 3 p.m., with the show starting at 3:30 p.m.

Enrollment is limited. The cost for each camp is $250, which includes a $100 non-refundable deposit. Checks can be made payable to Venture Productions. A payment plan provides for a $100 non-refundable deposit, followed by the $150 balance due by Aug. 1.

Playground Drama Day Camp, directed by SUNY Fredonia Theatre and Dance Professor Ted Sharon, is produced in cooperation with the Rockefeller Arts Center and the Department of Theatre and Dance. To learn more or to obtain a registration form, contacted Mr. Sharon at 716-410-3597 or Sharon@fredonia.edu.

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