Musical Theater Camp Is Planned
The people heading up the Jasper County Historical Foundation picture Thomas Persons Hall as the epitome of community. They want the old building to be used…and used it will be this summer when it comes alive for children’s musical theatre camp July 25-29.
For children ages seven to 14, it will give them an introduction, or for the alumni of last year’s camp a second look, into what goes into making a theater production. There will be costume changes, scenery changes, and lots of music with dancing and singing to entertain young and old alike. This year’s camp features show tunes, and will include numbers from many different shows, for a total of 14 songs by various members of the group.
And, after the children practice and learn all week during classes, they will put on a performance Friday night for anyone who wants to be entertained by some talented young people.
Sandy Dennis is directing the musical theater camp, and she says her love of theater was brought about by her deciding to perform in community theater 15 years ago when Karen Strickland produced the Sound of Music. Ms. Dennis ended up with the lead role, and has very fond memories of the experience. She says the confidence, camaraderie and great fun that comes from being part of a theater production is something everyone should experience.
Last year, some 25 children took part in the camp, which was directed by Karen Ferrell-White, formerly Karen Strickland, and organizers are looking for it to be even bigger this year. Classes will meet from 9:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. daily, and lunch is provided. Friday’s camp will last longer as there will be a dress rehearsal for Friday evening’s performance. Children ages seven to 14 are invited to participate, and the cost is $95.
Students will have dance and music classes, theater classes, a technical workshop learning about scenery and props, and much more.
Ms. Dennis bragged on her volunteers, saying she has lots of help to be sure the camp is a success. She talked of bringing the building back to life, and said proceeds from the show will go to help the renovation process of the auditorium. She envisions the show paying for a couple of chairs in the theater.
Persons wanting more information may contact Ms. Dennis as sandy.dennis@ymail.com.
Registration is open now, and forms can be downloaded at thomaspersonshall.com.
