At Black Hills Playhouse (BHP), we are proud to carry on our founder’s dream of supporting growing artists to hone their craft through our Black Hills Playhouse Education programs. Every summer BHP hosts BHP Jr. Camps!
These summer camps are truly an unforgettable experience for student performers. Campers enjoy the fun of a classic sleepaway summer camp and spend a week exploring their artistic creativity through theatre. Goals of this camp are to have youth unplug from technology, learn more about themselves as people, enjoy nature, and be a part of an incredible performing arts experience like no other. Our camps are a safe, inclusive space for 5th–12th grade kids to make friends and have fun while receiving guidance and instruction from industry professionals.
So, what does a week long theatre-focused summer camp look like?
Campers arrive at the beautiful Placerville Camp located just 25 minutes outside of Rapid City in the Black Hills National Forest. The fun begins right away after check-in where students jump into an audition/improv workshop. After a dinner of simple kid-friendly fare, campers will audition for roles for the camp’s production, held at the end of the week for friends and family.
What makes this camp different?
We NEVER pre-cast roles, and we aim for everyone to feel like they have their chance to shine on stage. Youth attend from all over our region. Some have access to private lessons and multiple theatre experiences in their communities, but some don’t. It’s important that we meet kids where they are on their arts journey.
The rest of the week is spent having summer fun and sharpening skills! Our camps are broken up into two programs every summer. Our first program is for 5th-8th grade students, and our second is for 8th-12th grade students. We’ve given 8th-grade students the chance to attend either camp to make sure everyone feels comfortable, and we know 8th grade is a tricky transition year!
The 5-8 grade program meets each camper at their skill level and expands their theatre experience and knowledge. Through a combination of hands-on activities, rehearsals, and performances, campers will have the opportunity to develop their acting, singing, and dancing abilities. With a focus on inclusivity and positivity, the 5-8 grade program is the perfect place for young theatre enthusiasts to explore their passions and connect with like-minded peers.
The 8-12 program pushes campers to expand their capabilities. We will dig into the creative process and go beyond the page. Our classes and rehearsals encourage actors to explore their range and dive deep into scene work and preparation. Dance and music instruction will teach actors to evoke the emotion and heart of the music. 8-12 grade Technical students will learn about scenery, props, costumes, lights, and sound to enhance the performance and expand our storytelling. They will learn the art of creating a composition with all of the technical elements required to create the world of the story.
This year our campers will be performing Disney Frozen Jr.! Registration is currently open and closes June 1, 2024, so reserve your spot today. Tuition assistance is offered to families in need. We do our best not to turn anyone away. To learn more, check out our camp FAQs for all your burning questions. We hope to see your camper this summer! Select the button below to register your camper today.
photos courtesy of 605 Magazine
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