Over the weekend,I had the great privilege of observing a rehearsal for the upcoming production of Anne of Green Gables, running July 18 to 29 at the Prince George Playhouse. How wonderful it was to see so many of our city's youth getting involved in what could be a once-in-a-lifetime performance opportunity, under the watchful eye and tutelage of such a brilliant theatrical instructor and producer Judy Russell. With a cast of 47 (ranging in age it seemed from six to 60) and a total production team of around 70 people, it warmed my heart to see the younger cast members dedicating so much of their summer holidays to the performing arts.
It is highly likely that an experience like this is going to have a lasting effect and contribute to their ability to make positive life choices for themselves.
And so, even though we are already a few weeks into the summer holiday, I thought it might be helpful to highlight some of the arts and cultural programs for kids and youth that are being offered around town in the coming weeks.
Two Rivers Gallery is offering their annual Creativity Camps that offer fun activities for kids ages 6 to 13. Camp themes are wide-ranging and include drawing, painting, sculpture, food, drama and much more. Two Rivers Gallery members receive a 10 per cent discount and there are sibling discounts as well. For more information, visit www.tworiversgallery.ca, or call 250-614-7800.
The Fort George Explorer's Camp at Exploration Place is a perennial favourite in the city. You may have to go onto a waiting list but there are other science-related programs available on a weekly basis as well. Exploration Place and the adjacent park lands must be a kid's paradise in the summer, so visit www.theexplorationplace.com for more information or call 250-563-6969.
Now in its 43rd year, the Summer Arts Camp at Studio 2880 offers six weeks of exciting arts fun with themes such as International Baking Week, Ooey, Gooey and Slimey Too, Amazing Race Week, Wizard's Week, and more. Each week also includes an excursion to various locales in the city or a weekly swim trip. For more information, visit www.studio2880.com, or call 250-563-2880.
Theatre NorthWest has quite the unique offering for youth this summer, with their Summer Sewing Camp, running July 17 to 21. Directed by the company's mistress of wardrobe, Suzannah Marriott, participants will learn how to use a sewing machine, work with patterns and they will go home each day with a completed project. The camp is for ages 11-18 and all supplies and materials are provided. For more information visit www.theatrenorthwest.com or call 250-563-6969.
Finally, don't forget it is Downtown Summerfest on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in front of City Hall. Join thousands of fun seekers for festivities, fabulous food and fantastic entertainment for the whole family. The line-up includes the Taste Pavilion, Mainstage Performances, Exhibitor Alley and a Kidz Zone.
And in case you missed an opportunity to have your children involved with the arts this summer, it is not too early to start thinking about back-to-school arts programs that will start in a couple of months. Check out all of the above websites or give the Community Arts Council a call at 250-563-2880 and staff members there can offer you some suggestions for classes in visual and artisan arts, music, dance and more.
