Arts Camps Foster Creativity

"Sending your child to an arts camp is a helpful way of fostering that love for the arts," says Brandon McClounie, publicity chair for the British Columbia Camping Association. "They're ideal for children who are looking for a little guidance in any area of the arts."

For children who love dancing, Studio Pavas, based in Mississauga, teaches dance styles that include hip-hop, jazz, lyrical, Irish, ballet and musical theatre. "It's a very, very busy day," says Suzanne Zakoor, Studio Pavas's director and owner.

Arts Camps' Variety of Disciplines

Depending on the arts camps' programs (including the performing and fine arts), students may also take classes in art, drawing, drama and music. At week's end, students show off what they've learned in a performance for parents and relatives.

Drama lovers may want to consider Shakespeare School, an overnight camp offered by the Stratford Shakespeare Festival in Stratford. Students in Grades 8 through 12 may enrol in one- or two-week programs here, one of many theatre arts camps across the province.

Senior high school students—Grades 11 and 12—and recent graduates considering attending theatre school may opt for the month-long Theatre Performance Intensive program. "They learn how to audition, how to put a package together, what to wear...everything," says Edward Daranyi, the Stratford Shakespeare Festival's resident teaching artist.

Campers train with industry professionals, and work towards a performance at the end of their session. Productions tend to be Shakespeare-inspired, such as a condensed version of Henry IV.

Dan, 16, from Waterloo, participated in a production of Pericles during his two-week camp experience. Aside from vocal training and movement, Dan learned combat techniques and acrobatics as he prepared for his demanding role. "Acrobatics was my favourite. It's all about balance and trust," says Dan, who was impressed that the camp is run by theatre veterans. "It's really mind-blowing to work with professionals. I'm so thankful for this opportunity."

As well, the students may see evening plays at the Stratford Shakespeare Festival, such as Cyrano de Bergerac and West Side Story, Daranyi says. "It's a great chance for them to see world-class theatre."

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