The world of dramatic arts will come alive for area children who join the annual Playground Drama Day Camp at Rockefeller Arts Center at Fredonia. The first camp, for children ages 11 to 18, will be staged Aug. 11 to 16, the second session, for ages 7 to 12, runs Aug 18 to 23.
Each child will be part of the cast or crew in one of two musical productions: “Once on this Island Jr.,” during the first camp, or “Pocket Full of Dreams,” an original Playground production, in the second camp. Children, ages 11 and 12, may participate in 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. Incentive awards will also be presented. All children become members of the Playground Players troupe and receive daily snacks and a free t-shirt.
The camp’s pre-show drop-off of 8:30 a.m. and Daily Showcase that runs from 4:50 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 open for both productions at 3 p.m., with the curtain set to rise at 3:30 p.m. Admission is $7.
The playground camp is directed by Ted Sharon, head of performance in the Department of Theatre and Dance. He will be assisted by Fredonia alumni Marc de la Concha, Caitlyn Herzliner, Dan Lendzian and Aundre Seals.
The cost for each camp is $250, which includes a $100 non-refundable deposit that is due by July 1. A payment plan provides for the $100 non-refundable deposit, followed by $150 balance due by Aug. 1. For more information or to obtain a registration form, contacted Sharon by calling 716-410-3597 or at Sharon@fredonia.edu.
