Camp CenterStage promises not to be just another summer camp

The word is out: Camp CenterStage is not just another summer camp.

The popular camp, which focuses on elements of theater production, returns on June 4th and runs through June 15th. Originally a one-week session, the camp has seen substantial growth in the past couple of years - a factor created largely on reputation built by word of mouth, according to camp administrator David Raine.

"There is more of a recognition factor now, and a lot of that has to do with the number of kids who have come through this program - some of them participating in the camp several times," Raine says. "They've enjoyed it, and they've spread the word through their schools and other areas."

Presented by the Angelina Arts Alliance and Angelina College, the all-day camp encourages young people to learn theatre skills in a fun and supportive atmosphere, while under the guidance of an experienced theatre faculty. The program is designed to inspire creativity, stretch imaginations, expand artistic potential, and enhance self-esteem. Students learn every facet of theater, from acting to constructing sets to designing costumes.

The camp faculty is composed of theatre educators and professionals from acting, directing, technical, and musical backgrounds, representing decades of experience onstage and behind the scenes. This year, Camp CenterStage also brings in guest faculty from the Theatre for Youth program in Austin.

Enrollment for Camp CenterStage is now open for students entering grades 5-7. Enrollment is also open for CenterStage Academy, which is a more acting/technical-intensive camp for older students entering grades 8-9. The camp days run from 9 am to 3 pm; early drop-off and late pick-up are available. Final showcase presentations will be held on the Friday, June 15.

Tuition for the two-week camps is $225. However, scholarships are available to any camper who requires financial assistance. The Arts Alliance scholarship fund is generously underwritten by the T.L.L. Temple Foundation.

Raine says the camp is ideal for those youngsters seeking an outlet for their creativity; Camp CenterStage has also become a place where the students can become part of the Angelina College theater family. Several camp alumni have participated in such AC productions as "Babes in Toyland" and this year's hit, "The Yellow Boat."

"The nice thing about theater is it's not just a way to re-plug into your imagination, which is very important nowadays considering all the various distractions kids have," Raine says. "Theater, in my experience, is one of the best ways to make a lot of really good friends very quickly. It's very much like a family. Everyone is very supportive of one another, and it's great for a kid's self-esteem."

To request a brochure and enrollment form, or for more information about Camp CenterStage and CenterStage Academy, please contact David Raine at 936-633-4504 or e-mail him at draine@angelina.edu.