NEW JERSEY ACTING CAMPS & CLASSES
Camps and classes for New Jersey kids and teens that have a special focus on acting in the theatre. Many of these New Jersey acting education programs also focus on singing, dancing and music. Most programs present a performance on the last day of classes. Most of the camps are day camps, but some are residential.
Contact each individual organization via their website for updated program date, place, and registration information.
>
Speranza Theatre Company
Jersey City, NJ area
Playwriting Class (Grades 4-8)
Have you ever wanted to write a play? Not sure where to start, or better yet, how to finish? Learn the basics of playwriting including character development, plot, dialogue, and everything in between in a safe and creative space. Watch your words come to life each week as we work towards a 10-minute play.
Acting Scene Study (Grades 3-8)
Young actors will develop a set of acting tools through improvisation exercises and scene work. Build a backstory, create a character, and test performance skills in a safe environment. This program helps young artists develop skills that will last a lifetime.
Production Class (Grades 4-8)
Students will write, rehearse and perform a show they create. This program helps young artists develop skills that will last a lifetime and explore the art of collaboration through classes in acting, playwriting, improvisation, stagecraft, and production. Students will be responsible for all aspects of the production process including sets, costumes, lighting, sound, and prop design. Students will be expected to see the project through from beginning to end as one of the goals of the program.
Speranza Theatre Company also offers summer camp programs designed to help young artists develop skills that will last a lifetime and explore the art of collaboration.
Speranza Theatre Company's SUMMER Theatre Experiences are offered each year at various locations in New Jersey. We partnered with Hudson County and Jersey City to offer new programs each summer. In previous years, we also offered a special end-of-the-summer theatre experience at Educational Arts.
Website: https://www.speranzatheatre.com
McCarter Theatre Center
Princeton, NJ area
Education Classes
McCarter offers an array of in-person classes for Kindergarten - 12th grade students and adults. Each class fosters a supportive and creative environment where every student is free to explore, play, and develop their unique artistic voice.
Whether you have years of experience or you're trying theater for the first time, McCarter's classes offer a meaningful and joyful learning experience for students of all ages.
Summer Camp
Unleash your creativity this summer at McCarter's summer camp! Dive into week-long immersive experiences where campers will collaborate as dynamic ensembles, delving into the essentials of acting, crafting inventive characters, and creating memorable performances. Professional teaching artists will facilitate each session, offering a distinctive experience for newcomers and returning actors of all skill levels.
Winter Classes
Embark on a journey of artistic discovery with McCarter's dynamic selection of in-person classes, catering to K-12th grade students and adults. Embrace a nurturing and imaginative atmosphere, where every student is encouraged to explore, play, and refine their artistic identity. No matter your experience level, our classes promise a rewarding and joyful learning adventure.
Website: https://www.mccarter.org
Eagle Theatre
Hammonton, NJ area
Eagle Theatre’s education program serves performers of all ages in cultivating a strong community of like-minded artists, sharpening skills, learning more about their craft while receiving valuable performance opportunities. Our annual summer camp (ages 8-18) welcomes roughly 40 students over the course of 5-6 weeks in an intensive performance-driven program that centers play and fun.
Website: https://www.eagletheatre.org
Hudson Theatre Works
Weehawken, NJ area
ACTING & DRAMA CLASSES
Hudson Theatre Works offers an array of classes for professionals and novices alike. Taught by our company members, classes include acting (beginning and advanced), scene study, children's theatre, and playwriting.
The goal of all classes is to encourage students to take risks and to let go of their fear and apprehension. Experience the joy of theatre in a safe an supportive environment.
Website: https://www.hudsontheatreworks.org
River Union Stage
Frenchtown, NJ area
Educational Offerings
River Union Stage’s Educational Mission is to provide both children and adults a forum for creativity and a playground for the imagination. Through a diverse offering of artistic disciplines, we will examine the human condition by holding “as ’twere, the mirror up to nature.” Our hope is to foster not only a deeper appreciation for the arts, but also of the world in which we live.
Website: https://www.riverunionstage.org
Passage Theatre Company
Trenton, NJ area
Passage’s educational programming invites youth and adults of all ages and backgrounds to explore, fully realize, and share their greatest creative potential and the potential of the community through the power of expression – onstage, in the classroom, and in their neighborhoods.
Classes for ages 16 and up will teach participants a variety of theatrical skills and techniques. All classes are held at the Mill Hill Playhouse.
Website: https://www.passagetheatre.org
Cape May Stage
Cape May, NJ area
Cape May Stage is an Equity Theatre in Southern New Jersey, inspiring performers, audiences, our community, and the entire region. We introduce audiences to great professional performers and performances through our Main Stage productions. We also bring top performers from Broadway and elsewhere across the nation to our Monday Night Second Stage series; and in collaboration with other nonprofits, we provide family programming for the community. Our educational programming serves to enrich lives and foster artistic development throughout the region.
Summer Camp for Kids
Website: https://capemaystage.org
Centenary Stage Company
Hackettstown, NJ area
Young Performers Workshop
Musical Theatre Training Program (Ages 8 - 18)
This 15-week musical theatre program has been designed to meet the needs of beginning, intermediate and advanced performers ages 8 - 18 interested in working in the theatre.
The hands-on program utilizes both the classroom and the “production process” to train young people in the theatre arts. The program culminates in a live presentation of select production(s) selected by program director Michael Blevins and is based on enrollment.
Once registered, students are guaranteed a part in at least one production and, depending on ability, experience, desire and commitment level, could feasibly appear in more than one production.
No experience is necessary, however, applicants must complete an interview/audition for acceptance.
Website: https://www.centenarystageco.org
Ritz Theatre Company
Haddon Township, NJ area
Summer Camp
The Ritz Stage Starz Summer Camp is a four-week, hands-on experience in the magical world of theatre. Each day, campers will explore the realms of acting, singing, dance, and production, all led by our trained instructors.
n addition to daily instructional sessions, all campers will attend the summer mainstage production on the Ritz stage and talk to the professional actors involved. Plus, the whole camp will hop on a bus to New York City to see a Broadway show! It’s all a terrific way to learn more about the craft of theatre while making new (and lifelong) friends.
JUNIOR CAMP (Entering Grades 2-8, Ages 7-14)
SENIOR CAMP (Grades 9-12, Ages 14-18, includes recent HS grads)
Website: https://ritztheatreco.org
Pushcart Players
Verona, NJ area
Rooted in the belief that the arts are an inseparable part of the human journey and an essential component of the educational process, Pushcart Players develops intriguing, enriching and enlightening arts experiences.
Pushcart Players provides professional theater workshops and residencies for Pre-K to Grade 8. Young actors will develop an understanding and appreciation of the arts in addition to full participation in them.
DRAMA WORKSHOPS
Drama Workshops are designed to meet the specific needs and interests of all students. Curriculum consists of theater exercises and games, storytelling activities, and improvisation to build confidence, promote self-awareness and team-building.Young actors will develop vocal skills and stage presence through monologue and scene study. Focus, listening, and collaboration will be enhanced by the principles of acting. Workshops culminate in a performance designed to celebrate each young actor’s arts learning journey.
Pushcart Players’ workshops are geared for students from Kindergarten to Grade 8. Pushcart is culturally aware and responsive to the equity, diversity, and inclusion needs and progress of each community.
PUSHCART JUNIOR
Pushcart Junior is an after-school and camp program where young performers learn all about theater by doing it. Pushcart’s scripts are adapted for large casts of any size as well as junior versions of Broadway and other well known titles. These programs are guided by professional directors/teaching artists. Pushcart Junior ranges from six to eight weeks, and is adaptable for most schools/camp schedules.
ADA & EXCEPTIONAL AUDIENCES
Pushcart Players offers a variety of on-school-time programs for special needs populations to make theater education and participation accessible to everyone. Teaching artists work closely with educators and caregivers to tailor a project that meets the talents and interests of students in an inclusive environment. With sensitivity and skill, Pushcart opens the door for students to experience the benefits and joy of active engagement in theater.
Website: https://pushcartplayers.org
Premiere Stages at Kean
New Jersey, NJ area
Camp Premiere Summer theatrical adventures running from July and August.
Theatremakers
For students entering Grades 6 - 8
Students translate their creative ideas into brand-new, original material for the stage. Through structured improvisation, storytelling exercises, and acting games, campers craft and star in their own, totally original theatrical presentation for friends and family.
Actors Studio
For students entering Grades 9 - 12
Students focus on the craft of acting through physical and vocal warm-ups, improvisation, acting technique, and scene study. Working closely with industry professionals, campers perform scenes from contemporary plays, selected specifically for unique talents and areas for growth. This camp culminates in a performance of the campers’ work for friends and family.
Website: https://premierestagesatkean.com
Vivid Stage
Summit, NJ area
Summer Theatre Camp for Kids grades 5-12
The Vivid Dreamers is a three-week theatre experience in Summit, NJ. It combines building skills through study with theatre professionals in a variety of subjects with the opportunity for students to create and perform their own play.
At Vivid Stage, we believe in having fun while developing real skills under the guidance of professionals. Vivid Dreamers is an enjoyable way for students in grades 5 through 12 to explore their interest in the performing arts during their summer vacation. Students receive individual attention, constructive feedback, and the support needed to achieve their personal goals.
IMPROV COMEDY for Adults
Improv provides a fun way to learn how to think on your feet by freeing your mind, body and imagination through group exercises and games in a safe and supportive atmosphere. These classes delve deep into the craft of improv with more complex games as the weeks progress. All classes are taught by improv professionals.
Website: https://www.vividstage.org
Surflight Theatre
Beach Haven, NJ area
Surflight Theatre's Musical Theatre summer programs allow students to explore the craft of acting, singing, dance and learn the discipline of performing, as they develop their own unique creative voices through the study of scenes and songs from age-appropriate musicals. Each session will focus on a specific musical as stated below.
Students develop poise, movement, speaking, and acting skills as they explore improvisation, theatre games and character development, which culminates in a short presentation of a musical showcase at the end of the session. Students will have a time they will never forget as they experience their own "Broadway at the Beach."
Youth Musical Theatre Programs
A safe and supportive creative week for youth ages 6-12.
In this program, Surflight will encourage and celebrate imagination, storytelling, movement and singing through drama, music and theatre games in a fun, joyful environment.
Students will develop movement, speaking, and acting skills as they explore improvisation, theatre games and character development. They will also learn the skills of working as a team, creating both together and individually, and many others.
There are two age groups, 6-8 and 9-12. Each group will learn and perform a song from the session’s musical theme and both groups will come together to perform a second song. A short presentation for family and friends ends the week.
Teen Musical Theatre Program
A safe and supportive creative week for teens ages 13-17.
In this program, Surflight will encourage and celebrate imagination, storytelling, movement and singing through drama, music and theatre games in a fun, joyful environment.
Students will develop movement, speaking, and acting skills as they explore improvisation, theatre games and character development. They will also fully dive into the session’s musical theme and learn everything that goes into a musical - the production team, technical team, and performers. The teens will learn the skills of working as a team themselves, creating both together and individually, and many others.
A short presentation for family and friends ends the week.
Website: https://surflight.org
Vanguard Theater Company
Montclair, NJ area
At Vanguard Theater, our philosophy revolves around nurturing excellence at every stage, from our youngest Vanguardians in our education program, to our professional performers in our main stages. We are dedicated to instilling in our young participants a profound sense of their own value and belonging within a vibrant community of creativity and growth. Through our programs, we cultivate not only exceptional theatrical skills but also a robust work ethic that empowers them to realize their ambitions. Our commitment to high production value ensures that they feel part of something extraordinary, igniting a passion for collaboration and celebration of diversity that enriches both their theatrical endeavors and their lives beyond the stage.
SUMMER CAMPS
DREAM Summerstock VTC Intensive
VTC Kids Day Camp
Teaches youth, ages 8–13, to believe in their creative ideas, express them in front of others, and learn to be supportive of their peers.
CLASSES
Classes include favorites like Broadway Bound, Disney Dreamers, and Adult Musical Theater, along with new additions every session. Don't miss the chance to be part of our vibrant community and delve into the diverse world of Musical Theater. Whether you're into acting, Broadway dance, or other disciplines, Vanguard has something special for everyone!
Website: https://www.vanguardtheatercompany.org
Franklin Theatre Works
Annandale, NJ area
Classes are offered throughout the season in 3- 8-week sessions from September till May 2023 depending on weather, holidays, school closings and FTWETNJ production schedule. Sessions take place at Franklin Township School, Quakertown, NJ, Hunterdon County Library, RT 12, Flemington and at DIY, Stangl Road, Flemington.
Theatre art classes for all is a service FTWETNJ provides to the extended community. All people from all areas are invited to participate. Some scholarships available to those in financial need.
Acting technique, stage presence, body language, characterization among other skills is taught using theatre exercises and games, scripts and monologues. The purpose of these classes is to help the people, young and old, to develop life skills, whether they choose to perform or not. These skills include listening, keen observation, teamwork, responsibility the ability to stand in front of an audience, or their peers, and speak confidently without fear.
It is not required to perform in a play and the classes are not pointed toward that end. Although it is best to solidify learned technique with a presentation of some sort either by participating in a scene showcase or live filmed monologue.
Classes are scheduled by age.
Website: https://www.franklintheatreworks.org
Luna Stage
West Orange, NJ area
Classes for Adults
Dance for Adults
Dance for Adults is a fun and exciting way to get some exercise on Saturday mornings! Whether you're completely new to dance, or have danced your whole life, this class will help you find confidence in movement and increase your strength and flexibility!
Stage Combat for Adults and Teens
Create the illusion of violence for stage. This highly physical course will cover armed and unarmed fight choreography, as well as prop weapon safety. Students will choreograph and perform their own duels and battle scenes.
Shakespeare Deep Dive
In Shakespeare Deep Dive we will spend the entire session exploring a single play: Richard II. In our rigorous text analysis, you will examine how Shakespeare's use of language and meter can inform your acting choices. In our scene work, each actor will have the opportunity to embody multiple characters at different moments within the play. By the end of the course, not only will you know Richard II inside and out, you'll be equipped with the tools you'll need when approaching any Shakespeare play.Acting Studio with Theo Devaney
• Script Analysis
• Building a Character
• Voice and Body Conditioning
• Acting for Stage and Screen
• VoiceOver Acting
• Film, TV & Commercial Audition Technique
• Improvisation
• Scene Study
Find your voice and realize your unique potential.
In this class for beginning and experienced actors, you’ll strategize and build your career as a successful artist.
Admission is by interview only.
Classes for Youth
Creative Drama: Grades K-2
Acting and improvisation skills for our youngest students. Students will explore characters from their favorite stories and invent characters of their own. Through this imaginative storytelling and creative workshop we offer students a fabulous introduction to the world of theatre. Kids will stretch their imaginations and develop confidence as performers.
Students will explore scripted scenes, improvisation, physical and vocal warm-ups, and more! Each session culminates in a showcase for an invited audience.
Returning students are welcome.
Stage Combat for Teens and Adults
Create the illusion of violence for stage. This highly physical course will cover armed and unarmed fight choreography, as well as prop weapon safety. Students will choreograph and perform their own duels and battle scenes.
Dance for Kids
Students in Dance will explore multiple genres of dance and storytelling through movement! Students will increase their physical strength and flexibility while also engaging in a creative atmosphere where they can choreograph and collaborate with peers!
Improv for Teens
Students in Improv will work on improvisational skills by participating in games, collaborative scene projects, and creative theatre exercises. This class will exercise your mind, body, and voice so that you feel more confident in every aspect of acting!
Acting Technique for Teens & Young Adults
Develop your craft! Designed for the experienced as well as emerging actor, this ongoing course will invite students to explore scenes, monologues and original material. The ensemble will explore perspectives and methodologies including Laban, Meisner and Stanislavski.
Website: https://www.lunastage.org
https://www.axelrodartscenter.com
https://www.milesquaretheatre.org
https://www.eastlynnetheater.org
https://skylinetheatrecompany.org
https://www.georgestreetplayhouse.org
More New Jersey Acting Camps and Classes will be listed soon.
More New Jersey Acting Camps and Classes will be listed soon.
RESOURCES
Of course a website cannot tell you all the information you need to know about preparing yourself to be an actor: unions, contracts, agents, casting, auditions, and the myriads of other things actors should learn about the acting business.
Below are a number of resources that will help you learn about such things to get you on the right road to becoming a successful actor.
Copyright © All rights reserved.
Website designed by Dave-Blank-Website-Design.com