We are on week four of summer camps and our students are having a blast! Hear what parents are saying about Encore camps: #1 – “Our son adored this camp. I’ve never seen him so excited or engaged… Read More
Theatre By Kids, For Kids!
Summer Camps
Register for Encore Summer Camps!
Vaccine Requirements and Safety Measures
The health and well-being of our students and staff remains Encore’s top priority. We will continue to follow CDC, Virginia, and Arlington Department of Health guidance for our spring and summer 2022 programming.
Encore Covid-19 Vaccine Requirements:
Beginning March 1, 2022, Encore will require proof of full vaccination against covid-19 for all students ages 5 years and older participating in Encore’s camps, classes or productions.
- Once an age group becomes eligible, Encore will provide a two-month window before requiring proof of vaccination.
- Proof of vaccination will be submitted with Encore’s student emergency and policies form prior to class or camp arrival. You can get a copy of your vaccination record in Virginia here
Masking
We are currently requesting masks indoors at all of our camps and classes held at Cherrydale United Methodist Church.
We will follow Arlington Public Schools’ masking policies for all programs this summer.
- If transmission is low, masks are optional. Medium, masks are recommended. High, masks are required. Transmission status is available for viewing here.
- Campers may remove their masks while outdoors.
- All campers and staff will be expected to follow the current masking guidelines.
Below are some of our additional safety measures:
- All Encore staff and educators are fully vaccinated.
- Students and Encore staff complete a health screening prior to class or camp arrival focused on covid-19 symptoms.
- Lunch and snacks are eaten outdoors
- Encore staff works to maintain 6 feet distance and reduce physical contact between students.
- Frequent, specific breaks for hand washing with hand sanitizer available throughout the camp day.
- High touch surfaces (doorknobs, bathroom surfaces) are sanitized using EPA approved products. We use a daily checklist to ensure that all procedures are being followed.
- Audience seating every other row to support social distancing.
Questions? Contact info@encorestage.org.
Encore is excited to provide a summer experience for our youngest theatre lovers. In this morning program, students are engaged through activities tailored especially for them: song and movement, music and rhythm, storytelling and crafts. Our experienced teaching artists will welcome your little ones into the warm and wonderful world of theatre with a fun new theme each camp week.
The locations marked with an asterisk are those requested by Encore Stage & Studio. Arlington County will confirm camp locations in February 2022.
June 21-24, 2022: Lion Guard: Protectors of the Pride Land (Juneteenth observed June 20- No Camp)
Calling all the guards! Join Encore as we channel our inner lion and work together to protect the Pride Land. Each day your child will go on an adventure using their imagination, discovering fun new ways to respect the Circle of Life.
Camp Times: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Swanson Middle School (5800 N Washington Blvd, Arlington, VA 22205)*
Early bird Price: $190
Reg. price $205 after January 31st, 2022
June 27-July 1, 2022: PJ Mask
It’s time to be a hero! Join Catboy, Owlette, and Gekko as we bring the nighttime to the day. Together as an ensemble, we will transform into superheroes and work together to make sure the residents of Arlington have a great day!
Camp Times: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Swanson Middle School (5800 N Washington Blvd, Arlington, VA 22205)*
Early Bird Price: $235
Reg. price: $255 after January 31st, 2022
July 11-15, 2022: Bluey
Join Bluey, Bingo, and all their friends for a fun week of camp! Together as an ensemble, we will learn to share ideas, collaborate, and play together. Pre-K students will use their imagination to discover the wonderful world of creative play.
Camp Times: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Swanson Middle School (5800 N Washington Blvd, Arlington, VA 22205)*
Early Bird Price: $235
Reg. price: $255 after January 31st, 2022
July 18-22, 2022: Peppa Pig
Pre-K students will jump into the world of Peppa Pig to bring its catchy songs and charming characters to life. Your child will learn about important skills, such as how to share, patience, and what it takes to be a good friend.
Camp Times: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Swanson Middle School (5800 N Washington Blvd, Arlington, VA 22205)*
Early Bird Price: $235
Reg. price: $255 after January 31st, 2022
July 25-29, 2022: Welcome to Makers Camp
Find your inner architect in this exciting hands-on camp! Work together with classmates to build all sorts of creations using large Lego blocks, cardboard boxes, and other child-safe building materials. Your child will practice their fine-motor skills as we learn about different types of “makers”—and become makers ourselves!
Camp Times: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Swanson Middle School (5800 N Washington Blvd, Arlington, VA 22205)*
Early Bird Price: $235
Reg. price: $255 after January 31st, 2022
August 1-5, 2022: Clifford
Get ready to explore with everyone’s favorite big red dog—Clifford! Your child and their classmates will use their imaginations to go no adventures with Clifford, Emily Elizabeth, and all their friends! Together we’ll have a week of fun that just keeps growing!
Camp Times: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Swanson Middle School (5800 N Washington Blvd, Arlington, VA 22205)*
Early Bird Price: $235
Reg. price: $255 after January 31st, 2022
Will you accept students younger than age 3?
No. We cannot accept students younger than age 3.
No. We cannot accept students younger than age 3.
Will camp be held indoor or outdoors this summer?
The health and well-being of our students and staff remains our top priority in summer 2022. We will follow all CDC and Virginia Department of Health guidance and meet or exceed all recommendations. We are working with our facilities partners and have identified camp locations that would allow us to hold camp indoors with flexible access to outdoor space.
Lunch will be eaten outside weather permitting. Current guidance for masking, social distancing and sanitation protocols will be followed. We will remain flexible and update our plans as we get closer to the start of camp and pandemic conditions are more clear. We will provide updates on our website and via email with enrolled students.
Do you provide snack?
We do not provide snack for our summer programs. Snack and lunch should be packed by the student’s family, and should be peanut-free. Please remember to pack a water bottle.
Will siblings from the other camps get to see each other during the camp day?
This will vary depending on the camp. Most siblings will share space during snack, lunch (if scheduled all day), and performances.
Does my child need to be toilet trained?
All participants must be toilet trained. A toilet trained child wears underwear during the day, uses the bathroom independently, and indicates the need to use the bathroom.
Are your employees CPR/First Aid certified?
Our camp directors are all CPR/AED/First Aid Certified. Many of our teaching artists are as well.
My child is 5. Should I enroll them in this camp or an It’s Elementary program?
Parents know their children best: If your child is new to camp or a large group interaction, perhaps our three hour camp experience is where you may want to begin.
How should my child dress for camp? Campers should dress to move. If wearing a skirt or dress please wear shorts and closed toe shoes. Bring bug spray and wear or bring sunblock or hat. Rooms can vary on temperatures, so it is suggested that campers bring a sweater or jacket in your backpack.
When will I receive my welcome email information?
Registered students/families will receive their welcome email on Friday evening prior to the start of each camp. Be sure to add camp@encorestage.org and info@encorestage.org to your contacts to ensure proper delivery. At times, Encore’s emails can get sorted into the Promotions folder. Please email camp@encorestage.org if you have not received an expected welcome email.
Scholarships are available for all camp programs. Contact camp@encorestage.org. See Encore’s policies page for detailed information on refund requests, late pick up and other camp related policies. All camp titles, dates, times, formats and locations are subject to change.
It's Elementary
We’re excited to offer a summer of brand-new themes to captivate your students’ minds and activate their energetic creativity through a jam-packed week of movement, character creation, problem solving, and more!
June 21-24, 2022: The Saga of the Galaxy (Juneteenth observed June 20- No Camp)
The force is strong with this camp! Whether you’re a Sith or Jedi, Ewok or Porg, this camp will be as exciting as Pod Racing! Through games, exploration, and a lot of fun, we will embark on an epic journey together through space!
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Swanson Middle School (5800 N Washington Blvd, Arlington, VA 22205)*
Early Bird Price: $315
Reg. price: $350 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $70
Extended PM: $70
June 27-July 1, 2022: Encore’s School of Wizardry SOLD OUT – Email education@encorestage.org to join the waitlist.
You’re a wizard and you’ve been invited to attend school at Encore! Come cast spells, make potions and explore the fantastic world of wizards and witches through theatre, arts and crafts, and magic!
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Swanson Middle School (5800 N Washington Blvd, Arlington, VA 22205)*
Early Bird Price: $395
Reg. price: $435 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $80
Extended PM: $80
July 5 – 8, 2022: Best in Show: Dogs v. Cats (Independence Day observed July 4 – No Camp)
Meet some of Disney and Pixar’s most beloved animals as they compete for the coveted titles of best in show, cutest animal, and more! They’ll stop at nothing to WIN!
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Swanson Middle School (5800 N Washington Blvd, Arlington, VA 22205)*
Early Bird Price: $315
Reg. price: $350 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $70
Extended PM: $70
July 11-15, 2022: Broadway Kids: Disney SOLD OUT –Email education@encorestage.org to join the waitlist.
Broadway Kids was so popular that we brought it back again for you to enjoy. For the Second Time in Forever Encore is offering Broadway Kids during the summer! Be Our Guest as we Step in Time to Disney songs you know and love. You won’t want to miss The Start of Something New!
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Swanson Middle School (5800 N Washington Blvd, Arlington, VA 22205)*
Early Bird Price: $395
Reg. price: $435 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $80
Extended PM: $80
July 18-22, 2022: Broadway Kids: Classics
Calling all kids who love acting, singing and dancing! Come sing your favorite songs performed on Broadway and explore the magic of movement from musicals in this fun and interactive camp! Students will enjoy discovering characters, new songs, rhythms, and choreography as they take the stage by storm!
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Swanson Middle School (5800 N Washington Blvd, Arlington, VA 22205)*
Early Bird Price: $395
Reg. price: $435 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $80
Extended PM: $80
July 25-29, 2022: Up: Finding Kevin
Adventure is out there, and you’re a part of it! Kevin had gone missing in Paradise Falls and we need your help to find her! Using imagination, creativity, and teamwork let’s work together to find Kevin!
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended hours: 8:30 am – 10:00 am; 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Swanson Middle School (5800 N Washington Blvd, Arlington, VA 22205)*
Early Bird Price: $395
Reg. price: $435 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $80
Extended PM: $80
July 25-29, 2022: Broadway Kids: Disney SOLD OUT – Email education@encorestage.org to join the waitlist.
Broadway Kids was so popular that we brought it back again for you to enjoy. For the Second Time in Forever Encore is offering Broadway Kids during the summer! Be Our Guest as we Step in Time to Disney songs you know and love. You won’t want to miss The Start of Something New!
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 9:00 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Theatre on the Run (3700 S Four Mile Run Dr., Arlington, VA 22206)*
Early Bird Price: $395
Reg. price: $435 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $55
Extended PM: $80
August 1-5, 2022: Broadway Kids: Classics SOLD OUT – Email education@encorestage.org to join the waitlist.
Calling all kids who love acting, singing and dancing! Come sing your favorite songs performed on Broadway and explore the magic of movement from musicals in this fun and interactive camp! Students will enjoy discovering characters, new songs, rhythms, and choreography as they take the stage by storm!
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 9:00 am – 10:00 am Extended PM 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Theatre on the Run (3700 S Four Mile Run Dr., Arlington, VA 22206)*
Early Bird Price: $395
Reg. price: $435 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $55
Extended PM: $80
August 1-5, 2022: Marvelous Superheroes
It’s a bird…It’s a plane…it’s you! Use your Encore powers to explore the world of superheroes and villains. Through theatre, movement, creativity and crafts students will be able to share their skills and save the world!
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Swanson Middle School (5800 N Washington Blvd, Arlington, VA 22205)*
Early Bird Price: $395
Reg. price: $435 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $80
Extended PM: $80
August 8-12, 2022: Bringing the Games to Life
From saving princesses to racing through towns or beating the boss level, video games are coming to life at Encore! Students will step into their favorite games and go on amazing adventures using theatre, imagination, teamwork, and creativity!
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Cherrydale United Methodist Church (3701 Lorcom Ln, Arlington, VA 22207)
Early Bird Price: $395
Reg. price: $435 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $80
Extended PM: $80
August 15-19, 2022: Fairytales: What Really Happened
And they lived happily ever after! But what happened first? Follow us through a series of favorite fairytale stories designed for our youngest friends including Cinderella, Peter Pan, Jack and the Beanstalk, and more! This class incorporates movement, with an additional focus on spatial awareness in the storytelling process.
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Cherrydale United Methodist Church (3701 Lorcom Ln, Arlington, VA 22207)
Early Bird Price: $395
Reg. price: $435 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $80
Extended PM: $80
August 22-26, 2022: Minions Mischief SOLD OUT – Email education@encorestage.org to join the waitlist.
Do you like to make mischief? Do you like villainous schemes and evil masterminds? Do you wear overalls? Then come wreak havoc with us! Through theatre games, creativity, and a little mayhem we will have a despicable time!
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Cherrydale United Methodist Church (3701 Lorcom Ln, Arlington, VA 22207)
Early Bird Price: $395
Reg. price: $435 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $80
Extended PM: $80
What is the cut off birthday to enroll?
Students must be age 5 on the first day of camp.
Will camp be held indoor or outdoors this summer?
The health and well-being of our students and staff remains our top priority in summer 2022. We will follow all CDC and Virginia Department of Health guidance and meet or exceed all recommendations. We are working with our facilities partners and have identified camp locations that would allow us to hold camp indoors with flexible access to outdoor space.
Lunch will be eaten outside weather permitting. Current guidance for masking, social distancing and sanitation protocols will be followed. We will remain flexible and update our plans as we get closer to the start of camp and pandemic conditions are more clear. We will provide updates on our website and via email with enrolled students.
Do you provide snack?
We do not provide snack for our summer programs. Snacks and lunch should be packed by the student’s family, and should be peanut free.
Is there a rest or quiet time in the afternoon?
Teaching artists may elect to incorporate rest and relaxation time depending on the dynamic of the class, but it is not guaranteed. Parents know their children best: If you know they need a nap in the middle of the day perhaps the Pre-K program option is better for you.
What is the teacher to student ratio?
Our teacher-student ratio is 1:6.
What is the group size?
Students will be divided into small groups based on their age. These groups will be kept smaller than previous summers in keeping with Encore’s Covid-19 procedures.
Do you take field trips anywhere and if so how do you transport the children?
There are no field trips during our camps.
Are your employees CPR/First Aid certified?
Our camp directors are all CPR/AED/First Aid Certified. Many of our teaching artists are as well.
Can my child be grouped with his/her friend?
We are more than happy to put in grouping requests to our camp directors. Camp directors work very hard to honor grouping requests; however, we cannot make any guarantees. Send requests to camp@encorestage.org.
Scholarships are available for all camp programs. Contact camp@encorestage.org. See Encore’s policies page for detailed information on refund requests, late pick up and other camp related policies. All camp titles, dates, times, formats and locations are subject to change.
Scenes for Tweens
It’s time to take your interest in theatre to the next level! Join our professional theatre artists to take a deep dive into diverse and fascinating topics. Bust a move in Broadway Bootcamp, battle villains in Tragedy vs. Comedy or be a part of Shakespeare’s Tempest. This is your chance to focus in on what captivates your attention and makes your creative spirits soar!
The locations marked with an asterisk are those requested by Encore Stage & Studio. Arlington County will confirm camp locations in February 2022.
June 21-24, 2022: Summer Stories (Juneteenth observed June 20 – No Camp)
Do you lie in bed each night with ideas swirling through your mind? Do you long to create stories that make it to the big screen or up on stage? This is the camp for you! Under the guidance of our professional teaching artists, bring all your wildest imaginations from your mind to the page and, perhaps, to the stage!
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Thomas Jefferson Middle School (125 S. Old Glebe Rd. Arlington, VA 22204)
Early Bird Price: $300
Reg. price: $330 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $70
Extended PM: $70
June 27-July 1, 2022: Modern Day Myths
Have you heard about the daring adventures of Odysseus or the epic feats of Hippolyta and the Amazons? What if those heroes and heroines lived in today’s world? In this one-week camp, students will devise and perform their very own modern-day myth, determining important morals, creating characters, and constructing stories all while building their theatrical skills.
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 9:00 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Theatre on the Run (3700 S Four Mile Run Dr., Arlington, VA 22206)*
Early Bird Price: $375
Reg. price: $410 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $55
Extended PM: $80
June 27 – July 8, 2022: Broadway Bootcamp (Independence Day observed July 3 – No Camp)
Ready to work toward your personal greatest show? Let your musical theatre skills reach their peak during this training. Geared toward musical theatre lovers and newbies alike, this ensemble atmosphere will build dance and acting skills. Start on your path toward triple-threat status and learn all about what it takes to make it on Broadway.
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Thomas Jefferson Middle School (125 S. Old Glebe Rd. Arlington, VA 22204)
Early Bird Price: $750
Reg. price: $820 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $160
Extended PM: $160
July 5-8, 2022: Summer Nights Live (Independence Day Observed July 4 – No Camp)
Coming to you live from Arlington, VA it’s Summer Nights Live where you take center stage! Explore everything sketch-comedy from developing an idea to finalizing a script in this one-week side-splitting spectacular. This camp offers students creative tools to will build improvisation skills that feed into their sketch-comedy work!
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 9:00 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Theatre on the Run (3700 S Four Mile Run Dr., Arlington, VA 22206)*
Early Bird Price: $300
Reg. price: $330 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $55
Extended PM: $70
July 11-22, 2022: Tragedy vs. Comedy Explore acting opposites of tragedy and comedy and decide for yourself which will reign supreme! Actors will delve into the extremes of both comedic and dramatic acting styles as well as the skills needed for both. Culminating in a performance of scripted scenes, students can embrace both their inner clown and tragedian.
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Thomas Jefferson Middle School (125 S. Old Glebe Rd. Arlington, VA 22204)
Early Bird Price: $750
Reg. price: $820 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $160
Extended PM: $160
July 25-August 5, 2022: Shakespeare’s The Tempest
Join the rest of your troupe as you begin with the meanings behind Bard’s famous words, growing more confident with classical texts and acting styles, leading up to a final performance of Tempest. Throw away your fear as you work on this comedy/tragedy.
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Thomas Jefferson Middle School (125 S. Old Glebe Rd. Arlington, VA 22204)
Reg. price: $820 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $160
Extended PM: $160
August 8-12, 2022: Villains and Their Descendants
Does the apple fall far from the tree? The answer is up to you in this evilly delightful new camp. Collaborate with your fellow campers to create new scenarios starring your favorite villains and their descendants. What happens next? That’s up to you!
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Church of the Covenant (2666 Military Rd, Arlington, VA 22207)*
Early Bird Price: $375
Reg. price: $410 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $80
Extended PM: $80
August 15-19, 2022: Improvathon
Are you ready for hilarity, silliness, and a whole new style of theatre? Yes, and? The fun doesn’t stop during this week-long improvised comedy intensive. Develop characters, set the scene, and write your own story…all on the spot. Whether you’re completely new to improv or a seasoned comedy lover, every camp comes to life in brand new way!
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Church of the Covenant (2666 Military Rd, Arlington, VA 22207)*
Early Bird Price: $375
Reg. price: $410 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $80
Extended PM: $80
August 22-26, 2022: Adventure Acting and Stage Combat
Imagine a story so captivating that it has fascinated its audience for centuries. Explore the tales of the Three Musketeers, Sinbad the Sailor, and Peter, Captain Hook and the Lost Boys. Magic, mystery, and mayhem await you in this adventurous acting camp!
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Location: Church of the Covenant (2666 Military Rd, Arlington, VA 22207)*
Early Bird Price: $375
Reg. price: $410 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $80
Extended PM: $80
Will camp be held indoor or outdoors this summer?
The health and well-being of our students and staff remains our top priority in summer 2022. We will follow all CDC and Virginia Department of Health guidance and meet or exceed all recommendations. We are working with our facilities partners and have identified camp locations that would allow us to hold camp indoors with flexible access to outdoor space.
Lunch will be eaten outside weather permitting. Current guidance for masking, social distancing and sanitation protocols will be followed. We will remain flexible and update our plans as we get closer to the start of camp and pandemic conditions are more clear. We will provide updates on our website and via email with enrolled students.
What is a typical day like?
At Scenes for Tweens, we strive to build theatre skills while working towards a final performance. After a full-camp warm-up session, students typically divide into smaller groups and rotate through classes/workshops throughout the morning. After lunch, time is typically spent on rehearsal. At the end of the day, the camp comes back together for a brief reflection and notes about what to expect the next day.
I’ve heard that children are often divided into groups. Can my child be grouped with his/her friend?
We are more than happy to put in grouping requests to our camp directors. Camp directors work very hard to honor grouping requests; however, we cannot make any guarantees. Send requests to camp@encorestage.org.
What is the cut-off birthday to enroll?
Students must be ages 8–12 on the first day of their camp session.
Do you provide snack?
We do not provide snack for our summer programs. Snack and lunch should be packed by the student’s family, and should be peanut free.
What is the staff to student ratio?
Our staff to student ratio at Scenes for Tweens is 1:7.
What is the group size?
Students will be divided into small groups. These groups will be kept smaller than previous summers in keeping with Encore’s Covid-19 procedures.
Do you take field trips anywhere and if so how do you transport the children?
There are no field trips during our camps.
Do you have a nurse on staff or are all of your employees CPR/First Aid certified?
We do not have a dedicated nurse on our staff. Our camp directors are all CPR/AED/First Aid Certified. Many of our teaching artists are as well.
Camp Director, Seth Rosenke
Scholarships are available for all camp programs. Contact camp@encorestage.org. See Encore’s policies page for detailed information on refund requests, late pick up and other camp related policies. All camp titles, dates, times, formats and locations are subject to change.
Stage Door & Tech Camp
In this immersive camp experience, students will get a glimpse of what it’s like to work as a theatre professional. Mornings are spent sharpening performance skills. In the afternoons, students put these skills into action, collaborating with other artists in the daily rehearsal process. Each camp production is led by Encore’s professional teaching artists, with the curriculum enhanced by workshops with guest artists. Past workshop topics have included stage combat, clowning, makeup design, and physical comedy.
Students will have the opportunity to participate as either actors or designers/crew members as they channel their creative energy, talent, and enthusiasm into a production.
Scholarships are available for all camp programs. Contact camp@encorestage.org. See Encore’s policies page for detailed information on refund requests, late pick up and other camp related policies. All camp titles, dates, times, formats and locations are subject to change.
The locations marked with an asterisk are those requested by Encore Stage & Studio. Arlington County will confirm camp locations in February 2022.
June 21 – July 8, 2022: Stage Door + Tech Camp: The Nifty Fifties (Juneteenth observed June 20 – No Camp; Independence Day observed July 4 – No Camp)
Gracie Stanley has gotten herself in hot water by promising to deliver her distant cousin, rock star Ziggy Springer, for the high school Hippity Hop at Louise’s Luncheonette. Ziggy’s manager doesn’t want his client performing anywhere without pay, so Gracie and her friends have to produce a double — and fast! They use a singing soda jerk and plan to have him perform in the dark! It won’t be easy for Gracie to get away with this one with her rival, snooty Muffin Mansfield, waiting for her to flop. Meanwhile, Louise has her own problems. The building’s owner forbids the dance and plans to turn the eatery into a dry cleaner. With all of this happening, Gracie’s brother is living in terror because he’s smashed up a Harley belonging to Sinbad Gallucci, a bad dude. Join us as we bring Gracie’s antics to life in this musical comedy tribute to the 1950s! In this immersive camp experience, you’ll get a glimpse of what it’s like to work as a theatre professional. Mornings are spent sharpening your acting, singing, and dancing skills. In the afternoons, you’ll put these skills into action, collaborating with other artists in the daily rehearsal process. Each camp production is led by a director, music director, and choreographer, with the curriculum enhanced by workshops with guest artists. Past workshop topics have included stage combat, clowning, makeup design, and physical comedy. As the camp builds towards public performances of a fully-staged musical, you’ll be challenged to fully engage your creativity, to develop a memorable character, and to work as part of a team while gaining valuable stage experience.
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Location: Kenmore Middle School (202 S Carlin Springs Rd, Arlington, VA 22204)*
Early Bird Price: $980
Reg. price: $1,080 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $210
Extended PM: $210
July 5-8, 2022: Spotlight Showcase: After Hours (Independence Day observed July 4 – No Camp)
All is quiet on the storefront as the owner of a small clothes shop locks up for the night. Little does she know that when the lights go out, activity in her store really picks up! Two lively mannequins, LuAnn and Patty, have been waiting all day for a chance to loosen up. When they discover fellow mannequin Danny in a mistakenly delivered crate, the night really gets interesting! The new mannequin on the block talks of his dreams of becoming a crash test dummy — “No more standing all day with a crooked hairpiece!” he exclaims. He not only gets out of his box, he thinks outside the box when a pair of bungling burglars breaks in. With Danny taking the reins, the mannequins show the crooks who the real “dummies” are, playing games with their minds, frightening them out of their wits and sending them on their way! Elevate your acting abilities with the guidance of Encore’s professional teaching artists in this intensive focus on scene work.
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Location: Kenmore Middle School (202 S Carlin Springs Rd, Arlington, VA 22204)*
Early Bird Price: $320
Reg. price: $330 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $80
Extended PM: $80
July 11-22, 2022: Stage Door: Bedlam and Breakfast
Alan Barton has one successful Broadway play to his name. Now, if he can write a hit movie script in just one week, he just might reignite the flames of his fame — and of his failed marriage to Hollywood starlet Sylvia Belmont. His chances look good when he books a secluded cottage where he can focus on his writing and relax to the soothing sounds of the sea. But eccentric landlady Mrs. Lombardo seems to suffer from memory loss and has triple-booked the bungalow! The stonewalled scripter finds himself sharing the small space with a doddering auntie and her two chatty nieces, as well as a secretive Russian woman “from Detroit” and her even more cryptic comrade, who dresses like a Cold War spy! While the Russians lurk suspiciously, one of the nieces proves to be most troublesome, introducing to the crowded house a biker gang and her boyfriend’s band! Poor Alan is up to the gills in chaos… and then his ex-wife Sylvia shows up! Join us as we bring this fun farce to life!
Note: This production is a straight play (not a musical) and does not have an corresponding Tech Camp. Actors will, however, have the opportunity to collaborate on certain prop or set elements of the final performance.
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Location: Kenmore Middle School (202 S Carlin Springs Rd, Arlington, VA 22204)*
Early Bird Price: $755
Reg. price: $830 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $160
Extended PM: $160
July 18 – August 5, 2022: Stage Door + Tech Camp: Seussical Jr.
Transporting audiences from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus, the Cat in the Hat narrates the story of Horton the Elephant, who discovers a speck of dust containing tiny people called the Whos. Horton must protect the Whos from a world of naysayers and dangers, and he must also guard an abandoned egg that’s been left in his care by the irresponsible Mayzie La Bird. Although Horton faces ridicule, danger and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community are challenged and emerge triumphant!
In this immersive camp experience, you’ll get a glimpse of what it’s like to work as a theatre professional. Mornings are spent sharpening your acting, singing, and dancing skills. In the afternoons, you’ll put these skills into action, collaborating with other artists in the daily rehearsal process. Each camp production is led by a director, music director, and choreographer, with the curriculum enhanced by workshops with guest artists. Past workshop topics have included stage combat, clowning, makeup design, and physical comedy. As the camp builds towards public performances of a fully-staged musical, you’ll be challenged to fully engage your creativity, to develop a memorable character, and to work as part of a team while gaining valuable stage experience.
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 8:30 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Location: Kenmore Middle School (202 S Carlin Springs Rd, Arlington, VA 22204)*
Early Bird Price: $1,130
Reg. price: $1245 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $160
Extended PM: $160
August 8-19, 2022: Stage Door: Mission Possible! SOLD OUT
Here’s a hysterical spoof with all of your favorite spies of the screen! Scientist Dr. Schlock has discovered the valuable secret of telephonetics, a mind-controlling device used over the telephone. But he and his daughter are kidnaped by the evil Silverthumb, archvillain and D.O.O.M.’s leader. This diabolic demon needs the power of telephonetics to take over the world. The girl from A.U.N.T., Maxwell Sharpe, Agent 98.6, James Blond and even more contemporary sleuths gather at Argentum Manor to try to prevent Schlock’s devious plot from unfolding. Alas! If only the tape hadn’t self-destructed before telling our heroes and heroines their entire mission! You’ll never believe what happens to Blond… James Blond! Everyone involved will be greatly “in-SPY-erd.”
Note: This production is a straight play (not a musical) and does not have an corresponding Tech Camp. Actors will, however, have the opportunity to collaborate on certain prop or set elements of the final performance.
Camp Times: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Extended AM: 9:00 am – 10:00 am Extended PM: 4:00 am – 5:30 pm
Location: Theatre on the Run (3700 S Four Mile Run Dr., Arlington, VA 22206)*
Early Bird Price: $755
Reg. price: $830 after January 31st, 2022
Extended AM: $110
Extended PM: $160
Will camp be held indoor or outdoors this summer?
The health and well-being of our students and staff remains our top priority in summer 2022. We will follow all CDC and Virginia Department of Health guidance and meet or exceed all recommendations. We are working with our facilities partners and have identified camp locations that would allow us to hold camp indoors with flexible access to outdoor space.
Lunch will be eaten outside weather permitting. Current guidance for masking, social distancing and sanitation protocols will be followed. We will remain flexible and update our plans as we get closer to the start of camp and pandemic conditions are more clear. We will provide updates on our website and via email with enrolled students.
I see that Stage Door and Tech Camp have the same theme and run on the same dates in the same location. How do these programs work together?
Stage Door and Tech Camp are two components of the same performance-based program. Students enrolled in Stage Door will serve as the actors for the selected musical or play, while students enrolled in Tech Camp will serve as the technical crew. Students will participate in a variety of activities together, but will also work on projects separately throughout the three-week program.
What is a typical day like?
Busy! With just under two weeks to put together a fully-staged production, students at Stage Door and Tech Camp are constantly learning, creating, and collaborating. Actors can expect to spend the morning in classes/workshops designed to improve their acting, singing, and dancing skills, while crew will take classes on topics which may include set design, costuming, and lighting. Rehearsals are typically held in the afternoon during the first week of camp, but usually become a full-day activity towards the middle of the second week of camp. At the end of each day, actors and crew typically gather together to reflect on the day and discuss plans for the day ahead.
How do auditions work? Is everyone guaranteed a role in the show?
If you are enrolled in Stage Door, you are guaranteed an acting role. If you are enrolled in Tech Camp, you are guaranteed a spot on our crew. We strive to make the audition process as low-stress as possible.
For actors, auditions are typically held on the second or third day of camp, once everyone has had a chance to settle in and become familiar with the musical. Any material required for the audition will be taught by the camp staff before the audition process begins, and students will be given time to practice before they audition. Auditions are usually held in small groups and callbacks are held on an as-needed basis. A cast list is distributed the day after auditions.
For Tech Camp students, no formal audition is held. The Technical Director will assign each student to a role (including positions such as backstage run crew, props master, board operator, or stage manager) once she has had a chance to observe their skills and experience level. Students may request a particular job, but that job is not guaranteed.
Is it alright to miss a day or a few days of camp?
Because of the fast-paced nature of this program, we ask that absences be kept to a minimum. If you know you will be out of town for a few days during one session, you may want to consider enrolling in the other session or in another Encore summer program. All students should plan to be at camp on both performance days.
Will you accept students younger than 11 years old?
No. We cannot accept students younger than 11 years old. Please consider one of our Scenes and Tweens programs for students under 11 years.
End of Program Presentations
Sharing
All classes will have a sharing on the final day of class. Our programs are process-driven, and our teaching artists primarily focus on the learning that happens in the classroom each day.
A sharing is not necessarily a perfectly polished performance, but rather an opportunity to spotlight the hard work students have accomplished throughout their class time together. Rather than focusing on incorporating technical theatrical elements, the sharing will highlight the students and may include favorite games, exercises, student artwork, songs, dances and possibly scenes or short student-generated plays with an age-appropriate amount of dialogue.
Final sharings will be adapted to current pandemic conditions
Showcase
Our classes that end with a showcase will continue to highlight the art-making process which focuses on the learning that happens in the classroom. The showcase will start to highlight artistic work that demonstrates a strong beginning, middle, and end while incorporating minimal theatrical elements. Some of these theatrical elements may include small costume pieces, sound effects, songs, and student created set pieces. Student actors may be asked to wear a base costume of a certain color for the final showcase that is brought in from home.
Final showcases will be adapted to current pandemic conditions.
Performance
Our classes and programs that end with a show performance will highlight the mastery of skills needed by actors to perform a script from beginning to end. This show performance will be a more polished theatrical event that includes costumes, lights, sounds, and set pieces. These elements will be a combination of student-created pieces, pieces designed and created by teaching artists, and items pulled from our storage collection. Student actors may be asked to wear a base costume of a certain color for the performance that is brought in from home, but other costume elements that are created by students and teaching artists will be added to the base costume to enhance the theatricality.
Final performances will be adapted to current pandemic conditions.
Recommended Reading
Check out some of our recent summer-related posts.
#FridayFive Series: 5 Reasons to LOVE Summer at Encore!
July 1, 2022
“What time is it? It’s summer time!” We’re belting out our High School Musical 2 summer anthem as we enjoy one of our favorite times of the year! Summer camps are in full session right now and we’re… Read More
#FridayFive 2022 Encore New Year Resolutions
January 7, 2022
It’s the first Friday of 2022 and we’ve got our #FridayFive New Year Resolutions for you at Encore! #1 – Be a Part of Something New – Audition for our World Premier of Riley O’Brien and the Lost… Read More
Our Top 7 Funniest Camps of Summer 2021!
April 12, 2021
April is National Humor Month and we’re highlighting our funniest camps this summer has to offer! All of our camps are full of fun and laughter. These camps will sure to make you laugh til your hearts’ content!… Read More
International Mermaid Day | 3 Shorestopping Camps That are Making a Splash!
March 29, 2021
Happy International Mermaid Day! Mermaids of Encore-past have always found fintastic adventures. Today we’re highlighting 3 shorestopper camps that will mer-make your summer! July 12 – 16, 2021 – Ocean Adventures for ages 3-5 Let’s dive into the… Read More
Happy International Women’s Day! | Favorite Female Characters
March 8, 2021
Happy International Women’s Day! We celebrate today by taking a look at some of our favorite female characters! #1 – Mary Poppins “Practically perfect in every way”– Mary Poppins exuded confidence and encouraged the Banks children to use… Read More
See what people are saying about our camps!
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Thank you for giving each child an opportunity to speak/shine during the final performance.
Parent, Summer 2021
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“We just wanted to send a big THANK YOU for such a wonderful virtual camp last week! I must say, I went into the week a bit skeptical, but we were blown away at how organized, creative, and… Read More
Parent, Virtual It’s Elementary 2020
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“[My] kids are enjoying camp — you all have done a great job of adapting the camp for remote learning. Congrats to all!”
Parent, Virtual Tech Camp/Stage Door 2020
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“[Camp] was a huge lift to my child’s spirit to be with the instructors and students during COVID-19. It was also a boost to her confidence to have such a wonderful and creative virtual performance experience. You helped… Read More
Parent, Virtual It’s Elementary 2020
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“I just so appreciate the attitude of the instructors, directors, etc. They welcome everyone’s questions, check in with the kids on how they are doing, and just keep it so positive overall. This experience has exceeded my expectations…. Read More
Parent, Virtual Stage Door 2020
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“We could not have been more impressed with Encore. All of the logistics and communications were perfect. Thank you sincerely for a wonderful experience for our child and an easy logistics experience for the parents!”
Stage Door Parent
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“My daughter loves the summer camp and performance! It has been a real confidence booster for her.”
It’s Elementary Parent
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“The performance was very creative and inclusive of all of the children. Enjoyable for a first-timer. She felt comfortable and encouraged.”
Scenes for Tweens Parent
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“My child loved the staff, she can’t wait for next summer!”
Scenes for Tweens Parent
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“My child had an amazing time and said it was the highlight of her summer.”
Stage Door Parent
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Encore Stage & Studio is supported in part by the Virginia Commission for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Arlington Cultural Affairs Division of Arlington Economic Development and the Arlington Commission for the Arts. Graphic designs by Aileen Pangan Christian, Aimee Pangan and Gemma Roberts. Website Contributors: Aileen Pangan Christian, Sara Duke, Shannon McCarthy, Connie Polnow, Brian Hernandez, and Cristina Gasch Doyle. Photos credits: Larry McClemons, Cindy Kane Photography, Clarence Chan Photography, Aileen Pangan Christian, and additional contributors. · RSS Feed · Log in