MARINE CITY—Riverbank Performing Arts Academy has announced three, six-day summer camp offerings for young aspiring thespians. Each camp will provide the opportunity for students to audition, rehearse, and prepare for a theatrical production, which will be performed in front of a live audience upon the conclusion of the camp.

“Hello, Shakespeare!” runs June 26-July 1 from 12:00-5:00 p.m., with final performances on Saturday, July 1 at 1:00 and 2:30 p.m. The camp is open to students in Grades 9-12. Some of the weekly activities include acting and improvisational games, script analysis, and costume, makeup, and set and lighting design. This is a fun and non-threatening way to introduce students to the wonderful world of theatre and Shakespeare.

Camp Director, Aaron Dennis Smith, says, “Shakespeare is often seen as too difficult to comprehend, but the play, Hello, Shakespeare! introduces the actors (and the audience) to many of Shakespeare’s zany, crazy characters. Everyone will laugh out loud…a lot!” The cost for the camp is $150.00, and will take place at The Snug Theatre. There are only 25 spots available. Disney’s “Aladdin (Kids Version)” has two sessions available for students in Grades 1-8. The first session runs from July 24-29, with final performances on Saturday, July 29 at 1:00 and 2:30 p.m.

The second session runs from July 31- August 5, with final performances on Saturday, August 5 at 1:00 and 2:30 p.m. Elementary students (Grades 1-5) will attend from 9:00 a.m.- 12:15 p.m., and Middle School students (Grades 6-8) will attend from 1:00 p.m.- 5:15 p.m. Students will participate in fun and engaging Acting, Vocal, and Dance workshops, as well as rehearse for the final performances. The cost for the camp is $150.00, and space is limited to 60 students each session.

The Academy is under the direction of Aaron Dennis Smith, who has experience teaching youth in all aspects of the performing arts, including voice, choir, show choir, piano, band, speech, and drama. Some of Aaron’s past directing credits for youth include: Beauty and the Beast, Oklahoma, The Music Man, Seussical, Annie, Mary Poppins, and Willy Wonka. Aaron has been involved with the Riverbank and Snug Theatre since its inception, and has served as a performer, director, music and vocal director for many of the theatre’s productions. Riverbank Performing Arts Academy aspires to build confidence, create friendships and offer quality instruction to future members of the ever-growing performing arts industry. Benjamin Adair (13 years old), who has acted in Riverbank Theatre productions and participated in Youth Programs says, “The summer camp provided me with a week of doing what I love! I was able to be in a show performed by kids only! It was awesome to be with a group of kids who created a magical performance doing what we love. We all had great attitudes, supported each other, shared lots of laughs, and met new friends. You should come check out this years summer theater camp at the Riverbank!”

Students are encouraged to register soon at www.riverbanktheatre.com or by callingcall (810) 278-1749. Follow the Snug and Riverbank theatres at: www.facebook.com/thesnugtheatre Contact: Aaron Smith Riverbank Performing Arts Academy 358 S. Water Street, Marine City, MI 48039 aaron@riverbanktheatre.com 810-278-1749