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June 22, 2004

New Theatre Camp Develops Performing Talent of Youngsters Ages 8-15

The Woodbridge Department of Parks and Recreation, already possessing one of the largest and most diverse youth programs in the region, has expanded its summer offerings to include the new Stars of Tomorrow Theatre Camp.

The three-week program offers professional training in the dramatic arts for ages 8-15, culminating in a full-scale theatrical production before an invited audience.

Stars of Tomorrow Theatre Camp runs July 12-July 30, Monday through Friday, in three one-week segments at a cost of $65 per week. Students may sign up for one, two or three weeks; a three-week commitment guarantees a speaking part in the final play on July 30. The classes are held at Fords Middle School in two daily sessions: 8:30-11:30 a.m. for ages 8-11 and 12:30-3:00 p.m. for ages 12-15. No previous musical or theatrical experience is necessary.

"Our township youth programs have always offered a wide variety of activities, from sports and crafts to ballet and karate," says Mayor Frank G. Pelzman. "Stars of Tomorrow represents another team experience that helps young people develop self-expression and discipline as they acquire new skills and make new friends."

Stars of Tomorrow participants share in theatre games that develop vocal expression, body language, character creation and comic timing. Students also get a solid grounding in vital production elements such as chorus, set design, costuming and prop management.

The program is headed by two well-known area performers and instructors, actress/director Donna Jacobson and choir director Sue Belly. Jacobson is the Woodbridge School District's Gifted and Talented drama teacher, and Belly is the district's Gifted and Talented music teacher. Earlier this year the pair received a Woodbridge Township Education Foundation Incentive Grant for devising a special musical theatre curriculum.

For information about Stars of Tomorrow Theatre Camp call 732-738-1734; to register, call Woodbridge Department of Parks and Recreation at 732-596-4048.