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By: Van Arnold
One of South Mississippi’s more entertaining and anticipated summer camps is gearing up for another season, with applications now being accepted for the Midsummer Musical Theatre Experience.
Now celebrating its 15th anniversary, the musical theatre camp is set for July 6 through July 17, 2020. The camp is conducted by highly trained staff and held in the Theatre and Dance Building on The University of Southern Mississippi’s Hattiesburg campus. The camp will run from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. daily.
Camp Director Robin Aronson, Professor of Voice and Acting in Theatre at USM, helped create this camp with a former School of Music colleague as a way to connect the University’s theatre program with the Hattiesburg community and families. Professor Aronson notes that approximately 40-50 students participate each year, representing schools from across the region.
No experience is required to attend the camp, which is specifically designed for developing acting, singing and dancing skills in children ages 8-15.
“Not only do campers learn theatrical skills with our outstanding staff, but they grow in confidence, learn collaboration and improve communications skills,” said Aronson. “It has been a pleasure running the camp for so many years and exciting to see campers return each summer.”
Each year the camp is punctuated by a special musical performance. This year’s feature production will be “BOTS! A New Children’s Musical,” where teams and their (singing and dancing) robots all vie for the top prize. Amid the coding, building, and fierce competition, two members from rival teams befriend one another and throw everything off-balance. BOTS! invites humans and robots alike to discover the power of technology and teamwork.
Morgan Baker, a second-year MFA performance candidate from Montgomery, Ala., and director for the BOTS! musical, notes that the annual camp provides an opportunity for young students to grow and excel.
“I think the best thing about MMTE is the chance for kids to experience the joys of performing in a safe environment where they can have fun, make friends, and be superstars,” said Baker.
Michael Dendy, a USM graduate, has been working as the MMTE Production Stage Manager for the past eight years. For him, the camp’s highlight is getting to see campers break out of their shells and perform beyond expectations.
“You really see campers believe in themselves. I believe kids should sign up for this camp if they want to be challenged, make new friends, and have an unforgettable experience for the summer,” said Dendy.
To apply and learn more about the Midsummer Musical Theatre Experience, call 601.266.6442 or email robin.aronson@usm.edu. Applications can be downloaded at https://www.usm.edu/performing-visual-arts/midsummer-musical-theatre-experience.php
