MILLSTONE — Are you ready for the summer?
Gina Whalen, community education director and managing director of the Millstone Performing Arts Center (MPAC), has announced that the Cornerstone Music and Theater Arts Camp will be held at the MPAC from July 27 through Aug. 13.
“Space [for campers] is filling up quickly this year,” Whalen said, adding that last year there were 45 campers from Millstone and surrounding communities.
The camp will be held Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Campers will range in age from third through ninth grade, Whalen said.
This is Whalen’s first year running the camp, but she is a familiar face in Millstone primarily because of her experience directing plays in the Millstone Township K-8 School District. She is enthusiastic about providing a rich theater experience to youngsters.
“I am excited because the camp offers a hands-on theater education experience,” Whalen said. “There is not much in the way of theater education in our area, especially in the summer.
“Having the camp at our MPAC is the best part, in my opinion,” Whalen said. “Our performing arts center has a magnificent stage and auditorium.
“I’m not sure if people realize what a privilege it is to work in such a facility. There aren’t many third- or fourth-graders who can say they have performed on such a stage, but in Millstone, many of our children get that incredible benefit.”
The Cornerstone Music and Theater Arts Camp has many other outstanding aspects, according to Whalen.
“There is an amazing staff of professionals who work one-on-one and in groups with the children,” she said, adding that campers are given a chance to hone their musical theater skills in a safe and nurturing environment.
Other offerings at camp will include theater games, private coaching, character development, dance instruction and vocal instruction. At the end of the three-week program the campers will present a final production showcasing their talents and the work they have accomplished, Whalen said.
Five professional teachers run the camp, and interns will also be present to work with the campers.
Community education is also offering a theater set design workshop that will run in conjunction with the theater camp.
“This is for the child who likes art and/or theater, but is not interested in being in the spotlight,” Whalen said. “Millstone Township Middle School art teacher Frank Inglesias will be running this workshop where kids get to work on the scenery and props that will be used by the theater camp kids. It is a great opportunity to learn what really goes into a theater production. It is a wonderful behind-the-scenes glimpse.”
The final performance/showcase will take place at 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Aug. 13 at the MPAC, Dawson Court. To register children for camp, contact Gina Whalen at gwhalen@millstone.k12.nj.us