Top Performing Arts Summer Camps in Texas: Spotlight on Talent Development

Where can you find the best performing arts summer camps in Texas. How do these camps nurture young talent. What unique opportunities do they offer for aspiring actors, singers, and dancers. Discover the top theater camps that shape the future of Texas’ performing arts scene.

Texas State Theatre Camp: A Comprehensive Theatrical Experience

The Texas State Theatre Camp stands out as a premier option for high school students passionate about the performing arts. This two-week residential program offers an immersive experience in various aspects of theater, from acting and directing to technical production.

Camp Details and Tuition

The camp tuition of $1,200 covers:

• University residential fee
• Meals
• T-shirts
• Comprehensive theatrical training

To secure a spot, applicants must submit a $400 non-refundable deposit by May 9, with the remaining $800 due on July 1. All payments are processed through txstatepresents.com.

Scholarship Opportunities

For students facing financial constraints, the camp offers a limited number of partial scholarships. To apply, candidates must submit:

1. A letter explaining their financial need
2. A recommendation letter from their theater arts teacher

These documents should be sent to Vlasta Silhavy at [email protected] by April 15.

Application Process and Eligibility

The camp is designed for high school students who have completed their freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior year. Prospective campers must review and complete the Student Parent Handbook, with applications and deposits due by May 15 each year.

Camp Life and Daily Schedule

Campers reside in university dormitories, with males and females housed separately. The program provides all meals during the two-week stay. Days are packed with classes, rehearsals, and activities, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie among participants.

What to Bring

Essential items for campers include:

• Bedding for single beds and towels
• Personal toiletries
• Comfortable clothing and shoes for rehearsals (no flip-flops allowed)
• Alarm clock
• Writing materials
• Cash for snacks and laundry

Rules and Regulations

The camp maintains strict policies regarding curfew, attendance, and behavior. Violations may result in disciplinary actions, including potential suspension from the program. Parents and students must review and sign the Student Parent Handbook Form of Compliance before attendance.

Aaron Family Jewish Community Center: Act Up This Summer

The Aaron Family Jewish Community Center in Dallas offers another exciting option for aspiring performers with their “Act Up This Summer” program. This camp provides a platform for young artists to showcase their talents and receive instruction from top-notch performing arts professionals.

Unique Features

While specific details are limited, the program likely offers:

• Training in various performing arts disciplines
• Opportunities for public performances
• Instruction from experienced industry professionals
• A supportive and creative environment

The Impact of Performing Arts Camps on Young Talent

Performing arts summer camps play a crucial role in nurturing young talent and fostering a love for the arts. These programs offer numerous benefits for participants:

Skill Development

Campers have the opportunity to hone their craft in various areas:

• Acting techniques
• Vocal training
• Dance and movement
• Technical theater skills
• Improvisation

Confidence Building

Through performances and collaborative projects, students develop self-assurance and stage presence. This newfound confidence often extends beyond the theater, positively impacting other areas of their lives.

Networking and Friendships

These camps bring together like-minded individuals, allowing students to form lasting friendships and professional connections. Many campers maintain these relationships long after the program ends, creating a supportive network within the performing arts community.

Choosing the Right Performing Arts Camp in Texas

With numerous options available, selecting the ideal camp requires careful consideration. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Program Focus

Do you want to specialize in a particular area of performing arts or explore multiple disciplines? Some camps offer a broad curriculum, while others focus on specific aspects like musical theater or classical acting.

Faculty Expertise

Research the qualifications and experience of the camp’s instructors. Programs led by industry professionals or university faculty often provide valuable insights and connections.

Facilities and Resources

Consider the quality of the facilities and available resources. Does the camp have access to professional-grade theaters, rehearsal spaces, and technical equipment?

Camp Duration and Intensity

Determine whether a short-term intensive program or a longer, more immersive experience aligns better with your goals and schedule.

The Role of Performing Arts Camps in Texas’ Cultural Landscape

Texas boasts a rich and diverse performing arts scene, and summer camps play a vital role in sustaining and growing this cultural heritage. These programs contribute to the state’s artistic ecosystem in several ways:

Talent Pipeline

Many professional actors, directors, and technicians working in Texas theaters today got their start at summer camps. These programs serve as a crucial pipeline for developing local talent.

Community Engagement

Performing arts camps often culminate in public performances, engaging the local community and fostering appreciation for the arts. This exposure can inspire new audiences and supporters of Texas’ cultural institutions.

Economic Impact

The presence of high-quality performing arts camps attracts students from across the state and beyond, contributing to local economies through tourism and related spending.

Preparing for a Performing Arts Camp Experience

To make the most of your time at a performing arts camp, consider the following tips:

Physical and Vocal Preparation

Begin conditioning your body and voice in the weeks leading up to camp. This may include:

• Cardiovascular exercises to build stamina
• Vocal warm-ups and exercises
• Basic dance or movement practice
• Memorizing monologues or songs

Mental Readiness

Approach the camp with an open mind and a willingness to take risks. Be prepared to step out of your comfort zone and embrace new challenges.

Research and Familiarity

If possible, familiarize yourself with the camp’s curriculum and any required materials. This may include reading plays, listening to musical selections, or watching performances relevant to the program.

Beyond Summer: Continuing Your Performing Arts Journey in Texas

The end of summer camp doesn’t mean the end of your theatrical pursuits. Texas offers numerous opportunities to stay involved in the performing arts throughout the year:

School Theater Programs

Many Texas high schools have robust theater departments that produce multiple shows each year. Get involved in your school’s productions to continue honing your skills.

Community Theater

Texas is home to numerous community theater groups that welcome young performers. These organizations often produce a mix of classic and contemporary works, providing diverse opportunities for actors of all ages.

Youth Theater Companies

Some cities in Texas have dedicated youth theater companies that offer year-round classes, workshops, and performance opportunities. These can be excellent ways to build on the skills developed during summer camp.

College and University Programs

For those considering a career in the performing arts, Texas boasts several renowned college theater programs. Many of these institutions offer pre-college workshops and summer intensives that can serve as stepping stones to future study.

Participating in a performing arts summer camp in Texas can be a transformative experience for young artists. These programs not only develop technical skills but also foster creativity, collaboration, and self-expression. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just beginning to explore your passion for the stage, Texas’ diverse array of theater camps offers something for everyone. By immersing yourself in these intensive programs, you’ll gain valuable experience, make lasting friendships, and potentially set the stage for a lifelong involvement in the vibrant world of performing arts.

Texas State Theatre Camp : Division of Theatre : Texas State University

Your camp tuition covers the University’s residential fee, meals, t-shirts, and more.

Camp tuition – $1,200

• $400 Non-refundable deposit due with application by May 9, 2023
• Remaining balance of $800 to be paid on July 1, 2023

All payments will be made online via txstatepresents.com

Available Scholarships

A limited number of Texas State Theatre partial scholarships are available to students. Students who wish to apply should send a letter in requesting aid explaining their financial need and situation along with a letter of recommendation from their theatre arts teacher. It should arrive no later than April 15, 2023.

Please your letters to:

Vlasta Silhavy at [email protected]

School districts may offer students scholarships, checks can be sent to:

Department of Theatre and Dance
ATTN: Summer Theatre Camp (Student’s Full Name)
601 University Drive
San Marcos, TX 78666

Application and Registration

Please note, this camp is designed for high school students who will have completed their Freshman, Sophomore, Junior or Senior year.

Thoroughly review and complete the Student Parent Handbook.

Application and Deposit are due to the Department of Theatre and Dance by May 15 of each year.

The University COVID Policy

Information regarding the university’s protocols for COVID will be communicated to campers as new information is made available. Students may be expected to take show a negative COVID test prior to moving into the dorm. All specific information about COVID guidelines will be communicated in the weeks letting up to arrival.

Frequently Asked Questions

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FAQ List

• Students will not have to prepare any audition pieces.  All directors will use a combination of movement/characterization activities and cold readings for auditions.

• Students will be housed in one of the University Dormitories for the two weeks of camp.
  Male and females will be separated within the dorm.
  All meals during the two weeks will be provided and are included in the camp fees.

• It is always a good idea to have a little spending money. There are usually vending machines in the dorms, as well as in the Theatre building. There are coin-operated laundry facilities if desired.

• The items you will need for residence on campus include, but are not limited to:

  • linens (single beds) and towels
  • blanket and/or fan for comfort level
  • alarm clock (tardiness is not acceptable)
  • personal toiletries (soap, shampoo, hygiene items)
  • pencils and highlighters
  • comfortable appropriate clothing for rehearsals
  • comfortable shoes (including athletic shoes)
  • *No flip-flps allowed during theatre auditions, classes or rehearsals!
  • cash for snacks, etc.
  • detergent, quarters for coin-operated laundry, if desired

• During the two week stay of the camp, the students’ schedules are quite full.   Programs start early and end late.  Time spent in classes, rehearsals and in the dorms creates a camaraderie and bonding experience as each student comes to know the other participants of the camp.  If the student must leave for a short while at any time during the two weeks, it must be arranged prior to the beginning of the camp.  Please complete the Parental Authorization and Request for Departure form (found in the camp application materials) and submit by the first day of camp.

  Students needing to leave for the remainder of the camp will need to schedule their departure with the camp coordinator. Students leaving early will not receive a refund of their camp tuition.

• The camp rules, policies and procedures are laid out in the Student Parent Handbook.  Each participant and his/her parents must read and sign the Student Parent Handbook Form of Compliance.

  The camp staff will have strict rules regarding curfew, class attendance, rehearsal etiquette, and behavior. Rule violations may result in a phone call to parents, restrictions on activities, or suspension from camp. If a student is sent home for rule violations, his/her tuition will not be refunded.  For more detailed information, see the Student and Parent Handbook. Parents will also be required to fill out the Medical Emergency Information / Consent for Treatment Form and the Waiver of Liability, Consent to Treatment and Picture Release Form.

• For any questions, contact Vlasta Silhavy at [email protected].

Performing Arts Summer Camps – Aaron Family Jewish Community Center of Dallas

Act Up This Summer

Grab the spotlight and be a part of our amazing Performing Arts Camps! Taught by the finest in the performing arts industry from Broadway to DFW, our camps keep our campers invigorated, engaged, challenged and happy! Join us as we take the stage in our state-of-the-art theater!

For kids entering grades 3 – 9; enroll in one or both!

There’s No Fun Without ‘U’

Camp StarQuest

STEP INTO THE SPOTLIGHT, THE STAGE AWAITS!

Camp StarQuest is a four-week Musical Theater and Performing Arts Intensive that teaches the fundamentals of theater, voice, music, and dance – all in the process of creating a staged production of a hit musical. Students will have access to professional lighting, sound and dressing rooms in our state-of-the-art theater.

June 5 – June 30

Learn More

Camp StarPower

CREATE AND PERFORM IN YOUR OWN MUSICAL!

Camp StarPower is a two-week camp where campers create, write, and perform in an original musical production that they develop. Our focus is to develop our campers’ creative talents and performing arts skills through the process of developing an original work of art through a specialized and empowering experience.

July 3 – July 14

Learn More

Camp StarQuest

STEP INTO THE SPOTLIGHT, THE STAGE AWAITS!

Camp StarQuest is a four-week Musical Theater and Performing Arts Intensive that teaches the fundamentals of theater, voice, music, and dance – all in the process of creating a fully-staged production of a hit musical. Students will have access to professional lighting, sound and dressing rooms in our state-of-the-art theater.

Learn More

Camp StarPower

CREATE AND PERFORM IN YOUR OWN MUSICAL!

Camp StarPower is a three-week camp where campers create, write, and perform in an original musical production that they develop. Our focus is to develop our campers’ creative talents and performing arts skills through the process of developing an original work of art through a specialized and empowering experience.

Learn More

JCC Maccabi Games ArtsFest

BE A PART OF SOMETHING BIG!

The 2020 JCC Maccabi ArtsFest^® is a week-long summer arts experience for creative Jewish teens ages 13-17, featuring workshops in a variety of specialties with some of the leading artists in each field.

Teens will also participate in a community service project and social activities.

Learn More

Camps in Spain for children: a complete guide

With the onset of spring and the beginning of the Easter holidays, many parents in Spain are already starting to seriously think about summer leisure for their children. If the winter holidays are mainly the time when Christmas and New Year events are attended and large family celebrations are arranged; spring holidays – the time of carnival processions and gifts “from the Easter Bunny”; the summer vacation lasts almost three months and poses a difficult task for working parents: how to organize a pastime for their child at the same time with benefit and pleasure.

Today we will try to answer the most popular questions: at what age can a child be sent to camp, what are the types of summer camps in Spain and how children’s leisure is organized in them.

What age is suitable for summer camp?

In fact, there is no “recommended” age that can be applied to all children. For example, you can go on your first trip in an organized group at about 8-9 years old. However, a lot will depend on the physical and emotional maturity of your boy or girl.

Many parents make a common mistake in our modern society – excessive guardianship and limiting the independence of the child.

The rule “the sooner the better” works in this matter, because in the children’s camp you will have to use all your social interaction skills. Usually parents can objectively assess when their child is ready to leave the house for a period and become a little more independent, but it is better to do it gradually, step by step.

In many cases, the first trip to a children’s camp is the first time a child will sleep away from home, and it is important to avoid stressing the child in this new situation.

The most experienced organizers of children’s leisure are well aware of such features and organize such activities that allow minors to integrate into the life of the children’s camp as quickly as possible, meet other children and gain new positive experience.

Consider the characteristics of different age groups.

Children aged 4 to 5 years

In Spain, children can be sent to urban children’s camps from an early age (4-5 years). Such camps often open right on the basis of the school and begin their activities on June 22 – immediately after the end of the school year.

Since free pre-school education in Spain (infantil) starts at the age of 3, a children’s camp at this age will not be something extraordinary for a child. In essence, it’s like just going to school, just doing slightly different activities, where more emphasis is placed on games, creativity and sports, and educational goals are postponed until the new school year.

Children aged 5 to 7 years old

As with preschoolers, for the first camp of children of primary school age (5-8 years old), we can safely recommend city camps, also called day camps, since they use the same school schedule, with which the child is already familiar with. In day camps, as the name implies, the student spends the night at home.

Children aged 8 to 14 years old

For the next age group (8 to 14 years old), children’s camps can already be recommended, where children contact and live with other children 24 hours a day, sleep outside the home, and gain new experiences socialization.

Such summer camps are also great for learning foreign languages, taking part in sports adventure quests, learning to dance, learning the basics of cooking, surfing, taking courses in scouting and much more (we will look at the above in more detail below).

Teenagers aged 13 to 18

As a summer camp for teenagers (13 to 18 years old), it is worth considering overseas camps where older children can learn and improve a foreign language abroad. Very popular, for example, are such camps that offer the study of English directly in the UK, USA, Canada, as well as in Turkey, Greece, Cyprus and some other countries.

Such camps usually organize not just language courses, but also dances, theatrical performances, performing arts competitions, sports competitions, etc. at their base. Classes are held in a fascinating environment, where, while performing their main tasks, teenagers also learn to move independently and navigate in a foreign city, which significantly improves the skills of using a foreign language in everyday life and allows the teenager’s personality to develop, thanks to a unique multicultural experience.

Tips for parents sending their child to a children’s camp for the first time

Assess the physical and emotional-psychological capabilities of your child

Only you can know how calm and willing a child can stay overnight away from home (using the example of a similar experience with leaving him with relatives or close friends). It is important that the child can easily carry out hygiene procedures on his own, know how to dress and put on shoes without outside help, and easily make contact with peers. As a rule, all this applies to younger age groups.

Find out about your child’s preferences and choose a camp together

Visit the website of various children’s camps with him, tell him about the activities that await him there and in which he can directly participate. It will be useful to consider together those photographs where the camp talks about its activities and follow the reaction of the child – what causes him the greatest inspiration and response?

You also need to decide on your child’s hobbies and interests (outdoor games, caring for animals, creativity, learning foreign languages, sports, hiking, etc.), as well as focus on his personal characteristics – active and sociable or modest and shy, physical activity or creativity in a calm environment, etc. It is important to take into account the age of the child, although sometimes the degree of his independence and emotional maturity are much more important.

Encourage and support your child in their choices

Some children find it difficult to be away from home for the first time and spend the night without their parents, even with the tempting prospect of doing things that interest them at camp. This is quite normal and understandable. The task of parents is to encourage the independence and independence of the child, to explain that small difficulties at the beginning will turn into adventures and rewarding experiences in the end.

In no case should children be forced to do anything, but only motivated to achieve new goals. Sometimes parents will have to push the child a little and help him take the first step, but you should never push and impose something that does not find a positive emotional response in him.

A child should understand that a children’s camp is just an opportunity to see and learn a lot of interesting things, recharge your batteries for the next school year, make new friends, become more mature and independent. He should not have the feeling that he is just being sent somewhere, because it is more convenient for parents.

Alegria is here to help you find the perfect summer camp or language school for your child’s needs and interests. Read more about the service here:

Summer camp in Spain – selection and arrangement service

Now let’s move on to the most interesting – consider the types, features and arrangement of summer camps.

Types of camps for children in Spain

Multi-adventure summer camps (Campamentos de Verano de Multiaventura)

These camps are perfect for active children who feel brave and brave and want to spend a few days with big doses of adrenaline.

Here they will have to show physical activity and endurance by participating in outdoor activities and competing with other children (teams). Games are held both in the open air and in specially equipped rooms.

The main activities in a multi-adventure camp usually include archery, rock climbing, hiking and orienteering, adventure tower quests, horse trails, gymnastics, craft and creative workshops, cooking classes, dancing, etc.

Recommended for children from a certain age, as younger ones may not yet be ready to participate in some of these activities.

English language summer camps (Campamentos de Verano en Inglés)

Language camps are very popular with parents. The importance of fluency in foreign languages ​​in modern society cannot be overestimated. English in this area confidently holds a leading position.

In such camps, children can improve their foreign language skills without leaving the country. Usually, language camps in Spain have not only good material equipment for these purposes, but also well-trained specialists. Often classes are taught by students for whom the taught language is their native language, and a small age difference between teachers and high school students contributes to a more relaxed atmosphere and free communication.

Finding an English language camp for children is not difficult even in a small Spanish town, but you can also find a camp that teaches German, French or whatever language you are interested in.

For older children, it is also possible to spend a few weeks abroad to improve their skills.

Urban camps (Campamentos Urbanos)

An urban camp is usually a day camp where children participate in a range of play and educational activities but stay at home overnight.

Such programs are offered in public or private educational institutions in Spain during the holidays (Easter, summer or Christmas).

City camps are aimed at children of pre-school and elementary education.

City camps are the ideal solution for those working fathers and mothers who cannot balance their professional obligations with their children’s school holidays.

Also this type of camp is usually the best choice for parents who prefer to have their children around during the summer.
City camps begin their work immediately after the end of the school year, usually from June 22. The conditions of admission and accommodation, types of activities, duration and cost must be specified in the secretary of the educational institution that your child attends.

Campamentos para Adolescentes

This is the place to have a great time in summer!

When the holidays come, many teenagers don’t know what to do with so much free time. They want to get new experiences every day, communicate with peers and meet new friends, use every second to the fullest. How to arrange it?

Summer camps for teenagers are the best places to implement such plans, while parents are provided with peace of mind: they know for sure that their children are under reliable supervision, and their energy will be directed in the right direction.

For one or more weeks, adult children spend exciting days doing tasks that are interesting to them and appropriate for their age. Classes are held surrounded by friends and like-minded people, providing the most positive emotions. In addition, camps for teenagers can also practice foreign languages ​​and learn things that will be useful in later adulthood.

There are many options for teen camps. Therefore, in order for your children to have a great time this summer, you only need to choose the one that best suits their tastes and preferences so that they can enjoy an unforgettable vacation!

The most popular among teenagers in Spain are camps with sea sports, tennis courts, football fields and other sports activities.

Campamentos de Verano en el Extranjero

In order for a child to “learn a foreign language by himself”, the first step should be that children stop being afraid of it as a school subject, but perceive it as a natural and comfortable means of communication.

The best way to combine a fun summer with learning a foreign language is to go to a specialized camp abroad.
There are many types of summer camps abroad and as for the Spaniards, they choose mainly those aimed at learning English and French.

To quickly master English, children are taught to speak it every day and in any everyday situation. At the same time, it is important that they are surrounded by either native speakers or bilingual teachers, which naturally integrates them into the language environment. From the first days, children see constant communication not as “learning English”, but as a natural way of interacting with the outside world.

Summer camps abroad are a good idea for children after the course. Summer is the right time to dedicate yourself to something new and productive; for example, you can improve your English by enjoying socializing with peers and engaging in fun activities such as dancing, playing sports, or any other activity.

Dance camps (Campamentos de Baile)

Many girls, as well as boys, are very fond of dancing, singing, music and anything related to the performing arts.

There are many summer dance camps where children can develop their artistic skills as dancers and singers. These types of camps usually combine a lot of other activities besides song and dance, so the kids won’t get bored with a variety of other activities.

Students who usually attend dance, music or performing arts classes during the school year often choose these summer camps for themselves.

Children’s Farm Camps (Campamentos de Granja Escuela)

These camps are a unique opportunity to open your heart to communicate with pets and enjoy the gifts of nature.

Getting to know rural life and the intricacies of agriculture is a very rewarding experience that will be very useful for children to broaden their horizons.

Almost all children love animals, and here you can feed them daily, take care of them and, of course, make friends with them.

Camp on a farm gives children a lot, because the way of life in the city often leads to the fact that today’s schoolchildren lack knowledge of what was completely clear and obvious to previous generations.

For example, kids are very interested in where milk, sausage, bread come from, how vegetables and fruits are collected, which they used to see on their table every day. This is why the benefits of visiting a farm camp are so numerous.

In this way, the youngest learn a lot of useful things here with the most effective method – practice and experimentation, including both contact with farm animals and gardening rules.

Campamento militar para niños for children (Campamento militar para niños)

It will be a completely different world for your child, away from the computer, TV, mobile phone and video games.

Designed by real military instructors or former Green Berets, these camps promise an unforgettable experience away from the comforts of everyday life, testing your mettle and learning how to handle extreme situations.

These camps are for young people between the ages of 13 and 24 who have an adventurous spirit, who are not afraid of hardships and want to learn how to survive in the most difficult conditions.

Strong morale is also an important component of a young fighter, so here young people are set goals and instilled values ​​that should be preserved throughout their later life; these include leadership, solidarity, responsibility, communication, friendship, honor, loyalty, discipline, a spirit of self-sacrifice, respect for others, self-confidence, striving for self-improvement, and teamwork.

The high professional level of the staff assigned as instructors ensures that young people are completely safe, the guys will always be under strict supervision and control.