Registration opens for Children’s Summer Drama Camp

The Children’s Summer Drama Camp, launched in 1999 before the Center Theatre building had even been renovated, is the theatre’s longest-standing program. Over the years, the drama camp has expanded to include programming in Dexter, Greenville, Milo, and Monson as well as Dover-Foxcroft.

“The first summer drama camp was started by Jayne Lello and we will be forever indebted to her passion and leadership for children’s programming,” said Patrick Myers, the Center Theatre’s executive director. “Long before the Center Theatre was renovated, Jayne and that founding board of directors made sure that we were serving the children of our community. We’re proud to be continuing her tradition.”

Children’s Summer Drama Camp is open to ages 6 years and older, with a maximum of 25 children per session. There will be six sessions of camp taking place over this summer: beginning on June 24 in Milo, July 1 at the East Sangerville Grange, July 8 in Monson, July 15 in Dexter, July 22 in Greenville, and the final camp of the summer will start on July 29 at the East Sangerville Grange. Each camp will run from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. for two weeks.

During the camps, children learn about all aspects of making a play, from sets, costumes, and props to acting, improvisation and teamwork. Where possible, Center Theatre works with local summer meal programs to provide a free, healthy lunch to campers, and in some cases, breakfast, as well. 

The cost for attending camp is flexible. According to Myers, there are several payment options because of the support of sponsors, donors, and registrants.

“We are actively fundraising and have received several sponsorships and grants this summer that allow us to offer flexible camp registrations,” he said.

Parents may pay between $50 and $500 per child, per camp, based on their own financial situation. Myers said the theatre continues to accept donations to support the 2024 camps.

The Center Theatre is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization with a mission to engage and inspire by making arts, education and entertainment accessible to our rural communities.

To register for camp or make a donation, visit centertheatre.org/drama-camps or call the theatre at 207-564-8943.