Does my child need experience in the arts to participate in a camp at the Wortham Center?
No experience is necessary for any camp at the Wortham Center, only an open mind! If your child is just starting out in the arts, the Creative Arts Camps allow kids to sample many different arts forms in a low-pressure environment. Performing Arts Camps are centered on the creative process, giving kids creative license and the freedom to write and perform in their own original show.
What spaces will be used for camp?
The Wortham Center has three state-of-the-art learning and performance spaces, all of which will be used during summer camps.
- Tina McGuire Theatre: an intimate black box theatre where daily classes and the final showcase will be held
- Henry LaBrun Studio: a fully-equipped dance and movement studio perfect for classes and activities
- Diana Wortham Theatre: a 500-seat house where students will take a behind-the-scenes look at a professional theatre.
Campers will also have a chance to enjoy the sunshine with supervised breaks and activities in our back courtyard.
Who will lead camps at the Wortham Center?
2023 Summer Camps are led by Director of Education and Engagement Anna Kimmell (a theatre educator, actor, director, and choreographer), Michelle Medina Villalon (an artist and educator), the wonderful team of arts professionals at the Wortham Center, and a handful of local artists and guest educators. While each teaching artist brings their own flare and unique perspective to the classroom, all faculty are committed to creating a safe and fun learning environment.
What are the COVID safety protocols at camps?
There are no mask requirements for summer camps. If a student or family member has been quarantined from school, work, or another activity due to COVID exposure, they are not allowed to attend an in-person class until the quarantine period is complete or they have proof of a negative test taken 3-5 days after exposure. If a student is experiencing symptoms related to COVID-19, they may return to camp with proof of a negative COVID test once their symptoms subside. Safety policies are subject to change.
Where do I drop off and pick up my child at the Wortham Center?
Drop off and pick up will be held behind the Wortham Arts Center on South Market Street between Court Plaza and Eagle Street, directly across from the police/fire department. Please see this map for reference.
At drop off, Wortham staff members will be on S. Market Street to welcome and check in each student. Parents are welcome to drive up and drop off or find street parking and walk your child up to be checked in. The same traffic pattern will be followed at the end of day for pick up.
At the end of the last day of camp, kids will share what they’ve learned in a final sharing and showcase for family and friends. Parking tips for the showcase can be found here.
What should my child bring to camp?
Full-day campers should bring a water bottle, a snack that does not need to be refrigerated, a lunch that does not need to be refrigerated, and any materials such as scripts or music that have been assigned during the program.
Half-day campers should bring a water bottle and a snack that does not need to be refrigerated.
What should my child wear at camp?
Campers should wear comfortable clothes they can move in. The theatre can sometimes be cold, so we recommend bringing a sweater or jacket. For safety reasons, no sandals or open-toed shoes are allowed.
How can I pay for camps?
Payments can be made online or by calling the Box Office at 828-257-4530.
Can I get a refund for camp?
All sales are final. No refunds can be processed for Summer Camps.
Are scholarships available for Summer Camps?
A limited number of need-based scholarships are available upon application through Arts for All Kids and available to families who qualify for free or reduced lunch. The application includes basic student and family information as well as a short paragraph about why the scholarship would be significant. Scholarship applications close March 31.
If I apply for a scholarship, do I also need to register for camp?
No. If you are applying for a scholarship, please do not also register and pay for a camp. Scholarships are processed on a rolling basis based on availability and families will be notified of their awards via email. After a child has been awarded a scholarship, they are enrolled in the program and the Wortham Education Team will be in touch with more information.
As a parent or guardian, am I allowed to sit in on my child’s camp?
Our camps are closed to parents and visitors to create a safe and focused environment. Friends and family are welcome to join us on the last day of camp for a final sharing and showcase. If your child needs additional support in a program, accommodations can be made with the education staff on a case-by-case basis.
My child is very advanced for their age. Can they take camp with an older group?
Students are intentionally divided into age-appropriate classes based on emotional and cognitive development. Additionally, we choose content that is exciting and relevant to each age group. For these reasons, we stick to the age and grade parameters set for each program.
Other questions? Email Director of Education and Engagement Anna Kimmell at anna@worthamarts.org.
