Summer Theatre Camps

Camp Registration Opens March 17 at 11 a.m.

At MCPA, we believe everyone has a voice. Our summer camps build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and foster ensemble and community in a fun, supportive, skills-based environment.

Performing Arts Camp

July 6–10, 2026 for Grades 3-8 (As of fall 2026)

Spend a fun-filled week with Youtheatre! Campers work with professional local teaching artists to explore acting, movement, music, and improvisation while staging Olympus: The Greek Rock Musical for the community.

About The Show:

Olympus logo.jpgOlympus: The Greek Rock Musical is a laugh-out-loud rock musical where ancient myths meet modern mischief. The Greek gods, bored with their immortal routines, launch a competition to prove who is the greatest god of all time—by meddling with mortals. When a group of modern-day cousins sets out on a hike to “Olympus Overlook,” they have no idea they’re about to be tested by ancient deities.

In addition to rehearsals, campers participate in age-appropriate workshops in creative dramatics, theatre games, and ensemble-building activities throughout the week.

Camp Details:

  • Open to students entering grades 3–8. Please note: Register your child according to the grade they will be entering next school year, NOT their current grade.
  • Monday–Thursday: 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Friday: 1 p.m. through the performance.
  • Full participation in all camp activities and performances is required.
  • Auditions held Monday (no preparation needed); rehearsals continue throughout the week. Costumes and makeup provided.
  • Campers bring a nutritious lunch and snack Monday–Thursday. Pizza provided Friday.
  • Tuition: $200 per camper. (non-transferable)
  • Limited full and partial need-based scholarships available.
  • No refunds after June 1. Earlier cancellations receive a full refund minus a $25 administrative fee.
  • MCPA reserves the right to cancel; full refunds issued if camp is canceled.

Final Performance:

Join us for a public performance of Olympus: The Greek Rock Musical on Friday, July 10 at 5:30 p.m.

General admission: $10 Tickets go on sale July 6 and are available at the door beginning 30 minutes prior to showtime.

 

Youtheatre Academy

July 13–17, 2026 for Grades 6-12 (As of fall 2026)

YTA 26 logo.jpg

Step into the spotlight this summer and take your performance skills to new heights. Youtheatre Academy invites young artists to immerse themselves in a week of acting, singing, and dancing inspired by Broadway’s most unforgettable moments.

Throughout this high-energy, one-week intensive, campers train with professional and local teaching artists in both small and large group settings. They strengthen technique, build confidence, and prepare a dynamic end-of-week showcase featuring repertoire from beloved Broadway musicals.

Camp Details: 

  • Open to 6th–12th graders.Please note: Register your child according to the grade they will be entering next school year, NOT their current grade.
  • Monday–Thursday: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
  • Friday: 1:00 p.m. through the final performance
  • Final performance: Friday, July 17 at 5:30 p.m., General Admission: $10. Tickets on sale Monday, July 13
  • Full participation in all camp activities and the performance is required
  • Friday pizza party for all students
  • Limited need-based scholarships available
  • Tuition: $200 per camper (non-transferable)
  • MCPA may cancel camps; refunds issued only in the event of cancellation
  • No refunds after June 1. Cancellations before this date receive a full refund minus a $25 administrative fee

 

Creative Drama Summer Camp

July 20-24, 2026 for Grades K-2 (As of fall 2026)

CDSC.jpg

Young performers spend a playful, imagination-filled week exploring acting, movement, and storytelling in a warm, supportive environment. Designed especially for students entering grades K–2, this half-day camp builds confidence, encourages collaboration, and introduces the foundations of theatre through creative dramatics and pretend play. No prior experience is needed, just curiosity and a willingness to have fun.

Campers engage in age-appropriate activities that nurture creativity, teamwork, and expressive skills. Throughout the week, they explore characters, stories, and movement, culminating in a short sharing for families on the final day.

What Campers Will Experience

  • Creative drama and imaginative play
  • Theatre games that build teamwork and confidence
  • Movement and music exploration
  • Storytelling and character creation
  • A supportive, play-based environment led by experienced teaching artists

Camp Details: 

  • Open to students entering grades K–2. Please note: Register your child according to the grade they will be entering next school year, NOT their current grade.
  • Monday–Friday, July 20–24
  • Half Day: 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
  • Tuition: $145 per camper (non-transferable)
  • Limited full and partial need-based scholarships available.
  • Campers should bring a small snack and water bottle each day.
  • No refunds after June 1. Earlier cancellations receive a full refund minus a $25 administrative fee.
  • MCPA reserves the right to cancel; full refunds issued if camp is canceled.

End of Camp Sharing:

Families are invited to a short, informal presentation showcasing what campers have created throughout the week.

  • Friday, July 24 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon)
  • Location: MCPA

 

Camp & Academy FAQs

What is a typical day at Performing Arts Camp?

Monday–Thursday (July 6–9): 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

Friday (July 10): 1:00 p.m.–End-of-Camp Performance

Campers arrive between 8:45–9:00 a.m. (12:45–1:00 p.m. on Friday) and sign in with counselors. After a morning meeting and warm-ups, students participate in rehearsals and workshops led by theatre education professionals.

There are two snack breaks and a lunch break daily. Camp ends at 3:00 p.m. Monday–Thursday.

Important: Campers must attend all workshops, rehearsals, and performances for the full week. No exceptions, except in cases of medical or family emergency.

What is a typical day at Youtheatre Academy?

Monday–Thursday (July 13–16): 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Friday (July 17): 1:00 p.m.–end of showcase

Campers arrive between 8:45–9:00 a.m. (12:45–1:00 p.m. on Friday) and sign in with counselors before joining their group. Each day begins with a morning meeting and warm-ups, followed by class sessions led by theatre education professionals.

Campers have snack breaks and a lunch break. Snacks and lunch are not provided.

Camp ends at 4:00 p.m. Monday–Thursday.

Attendance is required for all workshops, rehearsals, and performances unless a medical or family emergency occurs.

What is a typical day at Creative Drama Summer Camp?

Monday–Friday, July 20–24

Half Day: 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

Campers arrive between 8:45–9:00 a.m. and sign in with counselors. Each morning begins with a warm-up and group meeting, followed by creative drama activities, theatre games, movement, and storytelling led by experienced teaching artists. Campers enjoy one snack break each day. Camp ends promptly at 12:00 p.m.

What are the pick-up and drop-off procedures?

Families will receive detailed instructions before camp begins.

Only adults listed on the camper’s authorized pick-up form may sign them out. Students may not leave with anyone not pre-approved.

A parent/guardian must sign campers in and out each day unless the student is authorized to drive themselves.

Are lunch or snacks provided?

No. Campers must bring their own nut-free snacks and lunch.

Please note:

· We are a NO NUT facility.

· We cannot refrigerate or heat lunches.

Who teaches camp?

Camp is led by experienced theatre professionals with a strong background in arts education.

Creative Drama Summer Camp is led by caring, experienced theatre educators who specialize in working with young children.

Does my child need acting experience to attend camp?

No. Campers of all experience levels are welcome. Instructors tailor instruction to meet students where they are.

Youtheatre Academy is a week-long, highly intensive camp for students who have a background in the performing arts. Prior experience in the performing arts is highly encouraged for this camp. 

For Creative Drama Summer Camp, no experience is needed. Activities are designed for beginners and early learners, and instructors meet children at their individual comfort and skill levels.

Why are students grouped by Grade Level?

Students are grouped by age rather than experience. We believe campers thrive with their peers, and instructors adjust activities to accommodate varying skill levels within each group.

Creative Drama Summer Campers are grouped by age to support social comfort, developmental readiness, and positive peer interaction. Activities are adjusted to fit a range of abilities within each group.

May parents/guardians watch the camp sessions?

To support student focus and confidence, parents/guardians may not remain in classrooms or rehearsal spaces during camp hours.

Is there a performance at the end of camp?

Yes. Performing Arts Camp's performance will be a performance at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, July 10. General Admission Seats are all $10.

Youtheatre Academy's showcase will be at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, July 17. General Admission Seats are all $10.

Creative Drama Summer Camp Families are invited to a short, informal presentation on Friday, July 24 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) at MCPA.

Clothing

Camp is movement-based. Campers should wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes that allow them to move freely. Activities may include sitting or stretching on the floor, choreography, crafts, and paint.

If wearing skirts or wide-legged shorts, leggings or undershorts are required.

Not permitted:

· Jeans

· Open-toed sandals

· Sagging pants

If a camper arrives without appropriate attire, a parent/guardian will be contacted.

Footwear

Shoes must be closed-toe and secure (with a back). Tennis shoes are recommended. Dance shoes are optional.

Footwear NOT permitted includes:

  • Flip-flops, crocs or other loose sandals
  • High heels
  • Tap shoes
  • Wheelies

If any of the above are worn to camp, we will have to call and ask for another pair of shoes to be brought to camp. The activities require secure footwear for safe participation.

Outside Toys and Technology

Please leave electronics, toys, and valuables at home. MCPA is not responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen items.

Label all belongings (lunch bags, water bottles, jackets, etc.).

Behavior

We use a positive discipline approach focused on reinforcement and redirection.

If disruptive behavior continues, the following steps may occur:

1. Warning

2. Sit out from activity

3. Conversation with teaching artist

4. Meeting with camp leadership

5. Parent/guardian contact

6. Removal from camp

Steps may be adjusted if behavior poses a safety concern.

 

Registration FAQs

How do I register?

Register online at www.mcpa.org. You may also register in person. The Box Office is available by phone at 419.423.2787 (M–F, 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.) to answer questions.

Is payment required with registration?

Yes. Payment is required to secure your child’s spot.

For assistance, call the Box Office at 419.423.2787 (M–F, 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.).

Do you offer scholarships?

Yes. Full and partial scholarships are available based on demonstrated financial need. Funds are limited. Email education@mcpa.org for details.

What happens after I register?

You will receive a confirmation email immediately and an informational email one month before camp begins. If you do not receive confirmation, contact education@mcpa.org.

What is the refund policy?

No refunds after June 1, 2026. Cancellations before that date receive a full refund minus a $25 administrative fee.

Who should I contact with questions?

Craig VanRenterghem, Education Director education@mcpa.org