For working parents, sometimes the most stressful time of the year is when it comes to summer vacation. How do I keep my child entertained and out of trouble during working hours? Investing in a summer program that will benefit children, give them lessons that they can utilize in their everyday lives, and enjoy is sometimes tricky. One summer camp offering at The Academy of Theatre Arts in Williamsville, takes campers through workshops in self esteem and confidence via musical theatre.

“Some of our students have a dream of performing on stage, and others just want to learn something new,” says Lauren Baker, Educational Director at ATA, “our focus on team building, communication, and social skills are what sets our camp apart.”

ATA offers camp options for students in all grade levels. Starting with the Broadway class, which is aimed at older students, this year campers will be performing “Into The Woods.” “This program is for two weeks, and students will learn the ins and outs of putting on a musical,” says Baker, “this includes full sets and costumes as well.” For Middle Schoolers, OnStage at ATA is offered, and these campers will also be performing “Into The Woods.”

The Catch A Rising Star program is for students in elementary school and this year, students will be performing “101 Dalmatians.” “This show is a full musical experience as well, but for this age group we really focus on singing and projecting voices for performances,” says Baker. This program is for one week during the summer.

For those children of a younger age, say ages 2 to 4, ATA offers a Broadway Babies class that is a half day program where students will get on stage and start saying lines. The week ends in a small performance as well.

For those who might like to continue their theatrical learning during the school year, ATA offers classes for students ages 4 –  18. Their Audition Only company is offered  for High School, Middle School, and Elementary students. These programs meet multiple nights a week. “Students come in and they learn about musical production, and we continue to work on their skills,” says Baker. “We do two musicals a year, and we like to think of them as recitals.” 

Baker says that ATA offers students an opportunity to feel as they are a part of a team. “We offer the sport of theatre, where students make friends, and feel like they belong. We love to see our students succeed and are excited to see them keep coming back to learn more.”

The classes at ATA are taught by a group of resident instructors who teach lessons in acting, group voice, private voice, movement, and dance. “We offer classes for the open minded student. Maybe the student doesn’t know what musical theatre is, but they are looking to try something brand new!” says Baker.

The Academy of Theatre Arts opened 17 years ago as a studio that was aimed toward children’s theatre. Currently, they occupy a 10,000 square foot space in Transitowne Plaza in Williamsville. “We are here for the kids who want to go into musical theatre, and we are here for the kids that are just looking to learn and try new things.”

For more information on the offerings of the Academy of Theatre Arts, please click here.

Promotional Consideration Paid For By The Academy of Theatre Arts.