Shakespeare on the Sound

Kids Camps Built around Twelfth Night

Shakespeare on the Sound in Norwalk, Connecticut, is offering a selection of summer camps for children ages 6–15, all in conjunction with the company's main stage show this year, William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night.

The camps focus on the process of creating theater through creative play and imaginative discovery. All campers will learn to work collaboratively as an ensemble, develop acting skills through theater games, explore text playfully, and delve into developing character.

The works of Shakespeare are the centerpiece to these camps. "We believe Shakespeare is for everyone regardless of age, race, gender, and socio-economic background," a company flyer says. "We aim to illuminate Shakespeare's relevance in our lives today." The camps teach Shakespeare in a manner that dispels the fear and mysticism associated with the playwright and his works. Camp teachers nurture a comfort with, and ownership of, his language.

Three age-based camps are available.

Twelfth Night Jr., ages 12–15, June 24–July 5

Run in partnership with the Darien Arts Center, Twelfth Night Jr. is designed for the avid theater performer. Over 10 days. campers will explore and rehearse a 50-minute version of Twelfth Night, which will be performed on the main stage in Pinkney Park for family and friends on the last day of camp. Campers will learn to create ensemble through theater games, improv, and trust exercises, and will explore acting on a deeper level, learning more advanced techniques and approaches to creating character. Although no prior acting experience is necessary, this is a performance-focused camp and campers will audition for their roles. Not every camper will have a leading role, but every camper will have an important and active part in bringing Twelfth Night to life. Fee is $950.

The First Folio Players, ages 9–11, June 24–28

This camp is perfect for children who are interested in acting but do not want the pressure of auditioning for and performing in Twelfth Night Jr. Campers will learn to work as an ensemble through theater games, acting exercises, and trust-building activities. The campers will develop their acting skills as they work on scenes from Twelfth Night. Each camper will have a "big role" in at least one of the scenes and learn how to create multiple characters as they will be playing more than one part. On the final day of camp, the campers will perform their scenes from Twelfth Night for family and friends. Fee is $525.

The Groundlings, ages 6–8, June 25–28

Campers will explore the characters and plot of Twelfth Night through theater games and fun activities. They will learn basic acting skills, become familiar with Shakespeare's language, and learn to work as a team when creating theater. The camp will conclude with a 20-minute performance for family and friends. Fee is $275.

For more details and registration, visit http://www.shakespeareonthesound.org/summer-camps/.

February 18, 2019

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