Best Illinois Performing Arts Camps Summer 2025-26 Directory

CAMP FACILITIES: LIVING FACILITIES: Modern air-conditioned dorms available exclusively for our clinics, Dorms located adjacent to fields and teaching areas, Plenty of parking areas around dorm for easy check-in and checkout, Large modern air-conditioned lounge areas for relaxing and visiting INSTRUCTIONAL FACILITIES: Four large drill fields located near the dorm, A large-scale field house backup for inclement weather, Plenty of shaded teaching areas, Large air-conditioned indoor rooms for some classes, and rehearsals Doudna Fine Arts Theater for evening events. PERFORMANCE FIELD: Closing ceremonies and performance will be presented in OBrien stadium.
FREE TIME ACTIVITIES: Rotary water park with pools, water slides, fountains, etc, pool table in dorm, Outdoor cookout (drum major clinic), Bowling night, DJ party, Stunt Night (Talent Show; a long time tradition at SWC), Serenade evening after Stunt Night (Drum Major Clinics only)

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: See complete descriptions of all clinics at Our Camp Website Link: www.swclinics.com

Drum Major Clinic: Agenda
-Special training for college students
-All conducting classes taught by professional university conductors
-Drum majors who return or attend both sessions do not repeat same classes
-Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced levels of conducting
-Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced levels of showmanship
-Fundamentals of drill design
-Squad drills and competition with signals and commands
-Daily individual evaluations of fundamentals
-Daily individual video tape evaluations
-Leadership and motivational techniques
-Individual help with score study
-Teaching and cleaning drill
-Developing individual styles in conducting and showmanship
-Methods for teaching marching fundamentals
-Elective classes including: multi-drum majoring, salutes, showmanship, choreography, various marching styles
and twirling maces/signal batons

Section Leader Clinic: Agenda
Beginners
-Thorough marching fundamentals and basic commands
-Individual help with marching style and posture problems
-How to learn drills and read charts
-Basic knowledge of drill design
-The science of marching and the nine concepts of movement
-Measurements and grid systems
-Administration and organization
-These students are gradually merged with the advanced students

Experienced Section Leaders
-Accelerated marching fundamentals review
-Music basics, including tuning, tone production, articulations, reading skills and technique
-Exercises for teaching marching while playing an instrument
-How to teach and clean marching drills
-Basic commands review
-Motivation, attitude and team concepts
-Music rehearsal techniques
-Methods for teaching marching fundamentals of various styles
-Analyzing and resolving posture problems

Drumline & Front Ensemble Clinic: Agenda
-Leadership and motivation concepts
-Drumline marching fundamentals
-Warm-up and technical exercises
-Sectional teamwork
-Rehearsal techniques
-Cadences and visuals
-Visuals and modern body movement

Color Guard Clinic: Agenda
-Optional saber spinning classes
-High teacher to student ratio
-Routines created exclusively for the clinic
-Several music selections from recent marching band publications
-Free video and audio tapes of routines for each school
-An opportunity for students to learn how to create their own routines
-Group and individual evaluations and awards
-Modern body movement technique classes
-Marching fundamentals
-Free instructional manuals
-Optional sponsor/instructor sessions

Leadership Clinic: Agenda
-Group Psychology
-Self Analysis
-Creativity exercises
-Problem solving
-Motivational concepts
-Solving discipline problems
-Teamwork methods
-Training student leaders
-Interactive exercises to solve various problems
-Exercises and interactive activities that have purpose
-Activities that can be used at home to achieve results
-Learning about maturity and responsibility
-New curriculum each year

Mace & Signal Baton Workshop: Agenda
-Spice up performance skills with spectacular tricks, salutes, and twirling routines
-Develop a dynamic visual presentation sure to dazzle the audience and the judges too!
-Break away from common Drum Major staging, making a powerful contribution to the visual elements of the band’s performance
-Expert instructors with extensive performance experience
-Three levels of instruction

Student Conductor Workshop: Agenda
-Group conducting sessions focused on basic conducting techniques
-Individualized instruction throughout the clinic
-Lab Band: Students conduct a live ensemble of other workshop attendees
-Students are recorded & provided with video footage of their conducting experience daily
-Private Conducting Lessons
-Time devoted to study scores & recordings from your own school with our staff
-Opportunities to share & exchange ideas with campers from schools throughout the country
-Input and feedback from our First Class staff

Drill Design Clinic: Agenda
-Beginner level training for Pyware 3D drill design software and drill design methodology
-Advanced level training for more advanced techniques with Pyware 3D
-Individual assistance and an opportunity to work on your own marching band drills
-State-of-the art computer lab
-Exchange of ideas
-Discussions about special individual situations

Marching Band Directors Clinic: Agenda
-Teaching fundamentals for flags and color guard concerns
-Basic teaching techniques for marching percussion
-Rehearsal techniques for marching fundamentals
-Music rehearsal techniques for marching band
-Motivational and leadership concepts
-Basic drill design techniques
-Group psychology
-Discussion groups, exchanging ideas and solutions to problems
-Observation and discussion of video tapes of various marching bands
-Percussion topics for band directors
-Modern body movements and choreography
-Special considerations for large and small bands
-Recruitment, public relations and marketing ideas
-Parade marching
-Question – answer sessions with the experts
-Solutions to typical marching band problems
-How to teach and clean drill
-Identifying and solving posture problems and stylistic inconsistencies

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: Leadership program: Our Camp Website Link: www.swclinics.com

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: DISCOUNTS

-HALF PRICE for Drum Major Week 2 if attending Week 1.
-HALF PRICE for Leadership, Mace & Signal Baton, and Student Conductor Workshops if attending any other Clinic.
-Band Directors can attend the Drill Design or Marching Band Directors Workshops for free if sending 20 or more students and half price if sending 12-19 students to any combination of clinics or workshops.
-Colorguard sponsors or instructors can attend the Flag and Rifle Clinic free if sending 20 or more students and half price if sending 1-19 students to any combination of clinics or workshops.
-Student discounts of 10% are available for schools sending 12-19 students, and 20% for sending 20 or more students to any combination of sessions. If one student attends more than one session, each additional attendance counts towards the minimum. PAYMENTS MUST BE COLLECTED AND MADE IN BULK AND SET UP WITH THE OFFICE IN ADVANCE.

OTHER CAMP INFO: SW will transport participants to and from Champaign (air, train, bus) terminals for those traveling using public transportation. A SW staff member in a SW shirt and a sign will meet participants at their designated location. SW IS NOT a licensed chauffeur service. Our transportation assistance is intended provide free service to help minimize travel expenses costs. SW is not responsible for delays or cancellations that may occur while traveling. SW will not be responsible for traveler's expenses resulting from cancellations, hotels, meals, or bag fees. SW provides this service for pick up in Champaign only. Those needing this assistance are required to complete and send us the Public Transportation Form. Mail/fax/e-mail it to us not less than 5 days in advance of your arrival.

View our online information packet under "information documents" online

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
ILLINOIS LOCATION at EIU Charleston, IL

JULY 7-10, 2020:
-Flag/Rifle Clinic- $335 Resident/$255 Commuter.

-Marching Band Clinic- $335 Resident/$255 Commuter.

-Drumline & Front Ensemble Clinic- $335 Resident/$255 Commuter.

-Marching Band Directors Clinic- $385 Resident/$275 Commuter. (CPDU credit, grad credit available)

JULY 10-12, 2020:
-Drill Design Clinic- $295 Resident/$225 Commuter. (CPDU credit, Grad credit available)

-Leadership Clinic- $265 Resident/$205 Commuter.

JULY 12-17, 2020:
-Drum Major Clinic- week 1- $560 Resident/$440 Commuter.

JULY 17-19, 2020:
-Mace and Signal Baton Clinic- $265 Resident/ $205 Commuter.

-Student Conductor Clinic- $265 Resident/ $205 Commuter.

JULY 19-24, 2020:
-Drum Major Clinic- week 2- $560 Resident/$440 Commuter.

CAMP FACILITIES: Large indoor playspace for kids 3-5 as well as a half-court gym and Ninja Warrior obstacle course for kids 5-9.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Monday - Friday
June 12th - September 1st

Pricing: Weekly Rates
9am-1pm – $200 for 5 days, $120 for 3 days, $80 for 2 days

9am-3pm – $300 for 5 days, $180 for 3 days, $120 for 2 days
*A deposit is taken for each week during registration
______
Don’t want to commit to a schedule? Consider a Flex Pass. Flex passes let you buy 5 or 10 days of camp and choose the dates to use throughout the 2017 camp session.

Flex Pass Rates:

9:00am-1:00pm
$230 for 5 day flex pass
$460 for 10 day flex pass

9:00am-3:00pm
$345 for 5 day flex pass
$690 for 10 day flex pass

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Each student will participate in:

• A large ensemble—which will workshop and give the world premiere of a new work by one of the mentor composers
• A small ensemble—which will co-create, rehearse, and premiere new work(s) by the student participants
• A small home group—which will feature games and social activities
• (Optional) Two, hour-long private composition les- sons—which will give students professional feedback on their music and personalized instruction
• A final, virtual concert—on Friday, July 31, 2 PM EDT

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: We desire to make it possible for everyone who wants to join us to be able to participate regardless of family finances. We have a limited amount of funds available. Please email for more information.

OTHER CAMP INFO: Technology Requirements:

• Desktop or laptop computer (Mac preferred)
• A separate device to record audio/video (such as a tablet or smartphone)
• Headphones or earbuds
• An external microphone and audio interface would provide a better experience, but are not mandatory
• All enrolled students will receive a FREE, 90-day license for Dorico Pro 3.5

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
• No audition or prior composition experience required.
• Base Tuition: $450
• Registration Deadline: July 1, 2020

To learn more and to register, please visit Our Camp Website Link: www.musiccreatorsacademy.com

CAMP FACILITIES: Our amazing facilities include: Two large heated outdoor pools, an arts & crafts studio, boating pond, air-conditioned buildings for hot and rainy days, challenge course with climbing wall and boulder, two ball fields, and basketball, volleyball and tennis courts.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: JCC "Z" Frank Apachi Day Camp offers magical experiences for children living in the northern suburbs. Camp includes door-to-door bus service plus twice weekly lunch, field trips, camp t-shirt, camp CD and twice daily swim. Our full-time camp director works year-round to assure your child a summer full of memories and friendships to last a lifetime.

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: Counselor-in-Training program for 8th-10th grade

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Financial aid available, please contact the camp office.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
For more information on sessions, dates and fees, visit our website.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Our week-long Overnight Camps not only focus on training in musical theater skills like singing, acting, and dancing, but also encourage the campers to delve deeper into their spiritual lives through teen-focused devotions.

Camp staff includes professional local artists, CYT Production Artistic Teams, and theater specialists. These counselors are high energy, experienced, and love working with kids! CYT aims to hire counselors who are great role models for our students. All CYT counselors have been background checked and adhere to our CYT Mission and Values.

Registration includes:
All lodging and meals at Judson University
Age appropriate bible studies and worship time
An exclusive Overnight Camp t-shirt
Vocal, Acting, and Dance Training with Theater Professionals
A chance to develop new friendships
An All Camp Musical Showcase performed on Friday evening

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: We offer limited financial aid for our overnight camps. More information can be found on our website or by calling out office.

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: CYT Chicago offers high quality performing arts classes in 16 different locations across Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. With emphasis in drama, dance, musical theater, and vocal studies, any child ages 6-18 is sure to find a class that will pique their interest. Our classes are each 10 weeks long culminating with a showcase performance during the final week.

CYT Chicago also offers over 30 professional quality musical theater productions each year. Each production stars an auditioned cast of up to 120 talented students who are currently enrolled in one of our performing arts classes. With several public and school day shows, a CYT production is the perfect outing for anyone looking for a great theater experience!

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
2019 Overnight Camp Schedule
June 17–21 — High School Camp (Ages 14–16*)
June 24–28 — Middle School Camp (Ages 12–14*)
July 8–12 — Pre-College Camp (Ages 16–18*)

*Age is counted by the Friday of the camp week.

Early Bird: Only $415 (Ends March 20th)
$430 regular rate.

CAMP FACILITIES: Campers utilize four main rustic living units – Rustling Oaks, Setting Sun, White Cloud, and Shining Star – that provide platform tents and unit houses. These unit houses have electricity, indoor bathrooms, hot water, and kitchen facilities.

Setting Sun, Rustling Oaks, White Cloud and Shining Star units are available for camping. Each unit with the exception of Rustling Oaks, has a unit house and platform tents. Rustling Oaks contains a unit house only. The unit houses are all equipped with indoor flush toilets (White Cloud has composting toilets), full kitchen with cooking equipment, fireplaces, electricity, tables, chairs and mattresses (no cots), and electric heat. The platform tents are available April 15 through October 15 and house 3-4 people per tent with cots and mattresses. Each unit has a fire circle and comes with standard basic outdoor cooking equipment.

Setting Sun sleeps 20 indoors and 26 outdoors in platform tents.
Rustling Oaks sleeps 16 indoors and has a shower.
Shining Star sleeps 24 indoors and 35 outdoors in platform tents.
White Cloud sleeps 24 indoors and 35 outdoors in platform tents.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Your group can experience many activities while staying at Camp Tapawingo including team building on our high and low ropes courses, test your aim on our archery range or take a relaxing ride through the property on horseback. A small paddling lake can be explored in a canoe. If exploring on your own, hiking trails wind throughout the property. These activities are dependent on trained staff and/or volunteer availability.

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: We have both CIT and LIT programs as well as Leadership Camps and camp assistants.

If you love working with younger campers and hanging out with older Girl Scouts at camp, you’ll love this two-week session! You’ll spend the first week improving your camping and leadership skills and observing the counselors in action as you begin the sisterhood journey. The second week you’ll be paired with a unit to lead daily camp activities. As a CIT, you’ll have plenty of time to stay up late making midnight grilled cheese and playing goofy games.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Financial assistance is available.

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Our summer activities are open to all girls, including non-Girl Scouts. Any girl entering first grade through twelfth grade is welcome at camp. You don’t have to have any camping experience to come to camp, and you don’t have to come with friends or a troop. You’ll make new friends while you’re here. The GSCI summer camp experience is available in many forms: resident camp; day camp; family events; and core camping, where troops stay at camp and camp staff run activities.

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: Camp Tapawingo is a year-round camp with mainly activities and camping.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Please visit: Our Camp Website Link: www.getyourgirlpower.org

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
For camp jobs info please visit: Our Camp Website Link: www.getyourgirlpower.org.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: - Live Zooming and friendship-making time (prescheduled so your family can plan ahead!)
- Off-screen activities for independent play and learning (and naps! and yard time!)
- Hands-on activities with real art materials (art camp should be a little messy!)
- Small group sizes ensure that campers receive high quality instruction and individual attention from their teachers.
- Daily movement and mindfulness exercises integrated throughout the day to get the wiggles out

Camp tuition includes an Art Toolbox mailed to your home and a live exhibition every Friday that the whole family can attend, even those living far away.

Camp Staff:
Katerina Romanenko, Ph.D. Assistant Director of Youth and Family Programs

An experienced educator and visual culture historian, Dr. Romanenko specializes in Museum education, art history, American History, and object-based learning in formal and informal environments. She holds a PhD in Art History from the City University of New York and for more than 15 years teaches art history and works in Museum education. She also holds a BA in Education Sciences and has experience in research, development and implementation of educational programs for different age groups.

Alicia Mino, Art Educator, Manager of the School and Community Programs

An accomplished practicing artists and art educator, Alicia Mino received her Master’s in visual communication from the Metropolitan University of Chile, She spent fifteen years in Italy studying art history, oil painting, and sculpture. She presented in numerous art exhibitions and founded the Mates Art and Design Studio, where she taught drawing, oil/acrylic painting, and sculpture fundamentals for ten years. In 2008 Alicia moved to Philadelphia where she continues to exhibit her work and teaches art.

Lindsey Murphy, Art Educator and K-8 Program Coordinator

An art educator with over a decade of experience in the field of education, Lindsey Murphy has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology; concentration in Archaeology from Millersville University, and an Elementary Teaching Certification from Millersville University. She worked as a general education classroom teacher in the Oxford Area School District in Chester County, PA for 8 years, and has worked in PAFA’s education department over the past 11 years creating and implementing numerous museum tours and art making experiences for children and families of all backgrounds, becoming the K-8 Program Coordinator in 2019..

Melissa Hendrixson, Art Educator

Melissa Hendrixson is an artist and art educator who has worked in Museum Education for over five years. She has her Bachelor's of Fine Arts and Studio Certificate from Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and has gained experience through assisting the coordination and development of various museum programming including family programs, youth art classes, and summer camps. She now works for the School and Community Partnership Program as an art educator where she develops and implements museum tours, school lessons, and community outreach programs to support student learning, parental engagement and visual literacy initiatives.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: It is our sincere desire that no child be denied the opportunity to attend camp because of financial difficulties. Thanks to our generous donors, PAFA is able to offer a limited number of scholarships.

Please email artcamp[AT]pafa.org to receive a scholarship application

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Friday Art Show

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: PAFA offers a year round programs, online and in person for youth and families that engage parents and children with the museum collection and art-making. Our programs inculde art classes for middle school students, afterschool program for kids 6-11, and Sunday Family workshops. please visit Our Camp Website Link: www.pafa.org

OTHER CAMP INFO: Drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, comic books and graphic novels, collage and mixed media, and video arts.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Dates
June 21 - August 13, 8 weeks

Ages: 6-14 (groups: 6-8; 9-11; 12-14)

Mon-Fri from 9am - 3pm each day (except July 5rd).

For camps description, cost and schedule go to the registration website. Our Camp Website Link: www.pafa.org

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
Camp Assistants and Camp Instructors.
Please visit for current job announcements and apply via 
Our Camp Website Link: hr.pafa.org

CAMP FACILITIES: We have 4 state of the art dance studios all with sprung floors and marley.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Visit us at Our Camp Website Link: www.saltcreekballet.org for more information.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
For more information, visit: Our Camp Website Link: www.saltcreekballet.org

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Music, art, theater, dance, movement, social studies, science, history, outdoor play, and more.

Our campers are surrounded by a diverse and extremely talented staff of teachers and counselors who encourage campers to learn in a variety of ways. We offer a program rich in teaching styles, and we strive to connect personally with all of the children in the program.

OTHER CAMP INFO: Summer Camp at the Old Town School is an enriching, exciting, and educational way for your child to experience the summer in Chicago! The program includes music education, visual arts, theater, dance, movement, social studies, science, history, outdoor play, and more. Our summer camp environment is one in which children will learn to think independently, work cooperatively, and discover their own creativity. We encourage our campers to work both individually and in groups, thereby learning to appreciate other's skills as well as their own.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:

First Session: June 23 - July 18

Second Session: July 21 - August 15

$1,600 for each 4-week session, with extended hours for an additional $500 per session.

For more information, please visit: Our Camp Website Link: www.oldtownschool.org

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
Our Camp Website Link: steveandkatescamp.com

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Please refer to our website for complete information.

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: Virtuoso Performing Arts provides classes and lessons in dance, acting, music and tumbling throughout the year. Visit Our Camp Website Link: www.virtuosoperformingarts.com to learn more.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Please visit Our Camp Website Link: www.virtuosoperformingarts.com for more camp information.

CAMP FACILITIES: Campers stay in modern university dorm rooms and eat 3 meals a day in dining halls on campus. They enjoy a variety of recreational activities both on and off campus during camp week.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: EMC aims to provide a high quality learning experience in music for campers at an affordable rate. EMC is proudly non-profit and does not accept any type of advertising or sponsorship from outside of Eastern Illinois University.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Potential campers may apply for an EMC scholarship (see web page), and musicians who were part of the Illinois All-State Groups receive scholarship assistance.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
July 16-22, 2017

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Our summer 4-week classes develop physical health, confidence, and creativity while teaching proper dance technique.

The curriculum incorporates the Angelina Ballerina book "Angelina's Perfect Party," promoting reading and literacy.

Also included are lessons in nutrition, creating a strong healthy body, educational activity sheets, and craft projects to foster excitement among young dancers.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Tuesday & Thursday; 10:00am to 11:30am

June 5th-July 1st and/or July 15th-August 7th

Please refer to the studio's website for tuition fees

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Youth should plan to be online 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. weekdays, and to work ten additional hours per week on their projects. Most of the scheduled time is for projects but some of it will be for meetings.

Required equipment: A tablet or phone with a front-facing camera. A video camera or DSLR camera will also work.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
June 16 - June 29

Tuition:
$240 for non-MNOHS students
$180 for MNOHS students--or free for those who qualify

Please see our web site for more information: Our Camp Website Link: www.mnohs.org

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: These fun, high energy camps teach a mixture of smooth and rhythm dances throughout the learning of fun routines. Perform the routines on the last day for friends and family!

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
July 14th-18th and/or August 11th-15th

Please refer to the studio's website for tuition fees

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Financial aid is available! Please see our website for more information: Our Camp Website Link: steveandkatescamp.com

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
For camp session and fees info, please visit: Our Camp Website Link: steveandkatescamp.com.

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
For summer job info, please visit: Our Camp Website Link: steveandkatescamp.com.

CAMP FACILITIES: We partner with area churches, utilizing their full indoor spaces for learning and other activities, and frequently enjoying the weather for themed activities outside.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Our camp staff team consists of 100+ dedicated leaders who’ve worked in theater education or youth ministry. Staff members include Counselors age 18+, and adult Camp Coordinators who oversee each camp location. Our counselors have trained experience in dance, voice, and drama instruction. They enjoy working with campers to help them gain confidence, grow as performers, and most importantly have FUN!

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: We offer financial aid for all of our camps. More information can be found on our website.

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: CYT Chicago offers high quality performing arts classes in 16 different locations across Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. With emphasis in drama, dance, musical theater, and vocal studies, any child ages 6-18 is sure to find a class that will pique their interest. Our classes are each 10 weeks long culminating with a showcase performance during the final week.

CYT Chicago also offers over 30 professional quality musical theater productions each year. Each production stars an auditioned cast of up to 120 talented students who are currently enrolled in one of our performing arts classes. With several public and school day shows, a CYT production is the perfect outing for anyone looking for a great theater experience!

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Early Registration ONLY $195.00 (Ends March 20th)
$15.00 Sibling or Multiple Day Camp Discount
Standard rate is $210.00

CAMP FACILITIES: We run our camps in a beautiful and bright air-conditioned performance space. We are a half a block down from an enclosed park where we take snack breaks each day for unstructured play time with friends.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Dream Big was the winner of the 2013 Red Tricycle Most Awesome Award for Theater and Dance Classes in Chicago. It's no surprise due to our talented staff of teaching artists who are all trained professional actors, directors, choreographers and/or playwrights. Their passion for teaching children in the performing arts is contagious and our campers' delight throughout the week culminates in their confident performances at the end of each week.

Camps are geared towards age groups 3-18 and our creative themes range from Dragons, Monsters and Creepy Creatures and Fairy Tales Weeks, to Annie Camp, Improv Week, Musical Theater and countless others! We believe in the power of the arts through collaboration and ensemble-building. All of our classes and camps foster creativity, self-expression and teamwork.

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: We invite 3-6th graders to be counselors in training at half the price and 7-12th graders as volunteer teaching interns. This is a great experience for children and young adults to take on a leadership role with younger campers and gain teaching experience under trained and experienced teaching artists.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Partial Need-Based Scholarships are available. Please inquire.

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: We run drama programs (classes, camps, workshops and production experiences) for all ages 2-18 year round. Classes include musical theater, improv, story drama, scene study, creative drama and more.

OTHER CAMP INFO: In addition to our one-week drama camps, we are also offering Suessical, Jr, a 4-week, full-day production camp! This is the perfect opportunity for young actors entering 2-8th grades to sharpen their skills and work with professional actors and directors on a full-length musical on the Main Stage of the Athenaeum Theatre. For more information, visit Our Camp Website Link: www.dreambigperformingarts.com.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Our 1-week drama camps are offered each week June 13th through September 2nd. Please go to Our Camp Website Link: www.dreambigperformingarts.com for our full summer schedule. We can customize camps for groups of five or more kids. Let us know your preference of dates, times and themes if you would like to create a camp for your group of 5 or more.

Half Day Camps cost $225, Full Day Camps cost $425. Sibling and Multiple Camp Discounts apply.

Join us for a free Sample Class on January 30th, learn more and register at Our Camp Website Link: www.dreambigperformingarts.com

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Professionally Trained Staff
Our caring counselors are professional role models

ACA Accredited
We maintain the highest standards regarding program safety and quality

Swimming
Kids cool off in the pool under the close watch of lifeguards

Healthy Kids Focus
Dedicated to building healthy, confident, connected and secure children

Financial Assistance Available
We believe every child should have the opportunity to experience Y camp

Extended Care Available
Extended Care is available before and after hours to accommodate working parents, and is included in the price.

Field Trips
Unique opportunities to explore nature and experience new places

23 Locations in Chicagoland
Close to where you live and work

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: With the YMCA, everyone can afford to keep their kids healthy and safe this summer!

Scholarships are available for those needing help to pay for camp through Action for Children. If you qualify, Action for Children assistance can be applied for all weeks of summer camp. Applications for assistance through Action for Children may be picked up at the Member Service Desk. You may also contact Action for Children directly at 312.823-1100 or by visiting Our Camp Website Link: www.actforchildren.org

Action For Children is state provided assistance. You do not have to be a YMCA member to qualify.

If you do not qualify or were denied funds through Action for Children, you may apply for funds through the Lake View YMCA. Lake View has scholarships available through our Annual Campaign, which is supported by donations and gifts from staff, members and the community. YMCA Scholarship forms are available at the Member Services Desk. Assistance is based on annual income, family size and supported documentation.

A non-refundable, non-transferable deposit per week is required to hold your child's spot in camp, even if you have applied for Action for Children or a YMCA Scholarship. This deposit may be applied to your co-pay. For more information on financial assistance or scholarships, contact us at 773.248-3333.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
2017 Sessions:
Mini Week: Jun 21-23
Week 1: Jun 26-30
Week 2: July 3-7 (no camp July 4)
Week 3: July 10-14
Week 4: July 17-21
Week 5: July 28-28
Week 6: July 31-Aug 4
Week 7: Aug 7-11
Week 8: Aug 14-18
Week 9: Aug 21-25
Week 10: Aug 28-Sept 1

Call for pricing

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
Counselors are the primary caregivers for each camper. The Counselor is responsible for planning, teaching, coordinating, and carrying out activities and guiding campers in their personal growth and daily living skills.

Please apply at the following link: Our Camp Website Link: www.ymcachicago.org

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: A wide range of STEM camps, classes and workshops are offered for each age group.

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: We offer a wide variety of year-round camps, classes, workshops and special programs, like birthday parties. Here are just a few examples below.

Please visit our website for complete details, at: Our Camp Website Link: www.engineeringforkids.com.

WINTER BREAK CAMPS:

We will be offering half-day STEM programs during the winter break at 2 convenient locations. For complete information on our 2017 Winter Break Camps, please visit: Our Camp Website Link: www.engineeringforkids.com.

JANUARY CAMPS:

Scratch:Video Sensing Software Engineering Camp

What is more fun than playing an interactive video game? Writing one! Video sensing allows students to design and program their own video games and then test them by interacting with the program via webcam. In this Scratch program, students work together to create their own games, art and musical instruments while exploring coding foundations. Get up and get moving with Engineering For Kids and Scratch: Video Sensing! Students will:

• Program a video game using if:then statements
• Create variables to measure time and keep score
• Understand how math is integrated in the coding of musical instruments
• Design custom animations using Scratch

AGES: 7-11

DAYS/TIMES: Fridays 4:00 - 5:30pm OR Saturdays from 10:30 to 12:00.

DATES: 6 weeks 1/13/17 to 2/17/17.

FEES: $195.00

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
For detailed information on all our camps, classes and programs, please visit our Engineering for Kids - Chicagoland website, at: Our Camp Website Link: www.engineeringforkids.com.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Our camps are led by performing arts professionals with much experience of working with students of all ages and levels. We offer four two week sessions for all camps.

This year's camps musical theatre camps:

SESSION ONE: 6/15-6/26 - Snow White

SESSION TWO: 6/29 - 7/10 - Aladdin

SESSION THREE: 7/13 -7/24- Wicked Showcase

SESSION FOUR: 7/27 - 8/7 - Beauty and Beast

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Need-based scholarships are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please inquire about payment plans.

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: Improv Playhouse offers fall, winter, and spring sessions of youth classes, including musical theatre, plays, improv, film-making, and more!

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Please refer to website for camp tuition rates.

CAMP FACILITIES: In addition to several expansive athletic fields, there is a spacious wooded area for recreation out of the sun. Campers enjoy the use of tennis courts, swimming pool, basketball court, fishing pond, sand volleyball court, miniature golf course, archery range, gymnastics area, climbing wall, gaga pit, mountain biking trails, trampball court and much more! Several large buildings accommodate indoor activities during inclement weather.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Decoma is proud to offer the following options:

SHORTENED DAY PROGRAM for children ages 3 – 5
provides a fun-filled day led by adult counselors and includes bus transportation, daily swimming instruction, lunch, and numerous sports and activities all appropriate to the age, attention span, and energy level of three through five-year-olds.

FULL DAY PROGRAM for children ages 4 – 13
Campers swim twice a day, and exceptional Red Cross instruction is provided by trained staff in our spacious, heated pool. The fun continues on land with tennis, team sports, trampball, climbing wall, crafts, dance, archery, drama, fishing, gymnastics, martial arts, mountain biking, photography, circus arts, theme days, field trips and much more!

OPTIONAL SPECIALTY CAMPS for children ages 7 – 13
in GOLF, HORSEBACK RIDING, and TENNIS. Specialty Camp presents the unique opportunity for campers to concentrate in specific areas of interest at state-of-the-art facilities, combined with a blend of traditional camp activities.

Our accreditation by the American Camping Association and the American Red Cross continues to prove our commitment to the highest standards for our campers.

OTHER CAMP INFO: Since 1949 Decoma has provided generations of children with fantastic summers, special friendships and memories to last a lifetime. Highlights include: individual attention, small staff/camper ratios, mature experienced counselors and flexible programming (5 or 3 days a week--4 week minimum--choose any weeks). Decoma is about having summer fun while learning new skills, making lasting friendships, and enhancing self-esteem and self reliance. At Decoma each child is special to us. We pride ourselves on getting to know every camper as an individual and work with the family to provide the best possible summer experience. WE TREAT YOUR FAMILY LIKE FAMILY!

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
2020 DATES -- Our 72nd Summer!
YOU CAN DESIGN YOUR CHILD'S SUMMER PROGRAM TO FIT YOUR NEEDS!

8-WEEK CAMP SEASON: JUNE 8 TO JULY 31

POSTCAMP WEEK:
August 3 to August 7

Campers are required to enroll in a minimum of four weeks of camp. However, many campers enroll for 5,6,7,8 or more weeks. Camper weeks do not have to be consecutive. CHOOSE ANY WEEKS!

Our camp fee INCLUDES daily hot lunch, transportation, free extended care, and swimming twice/day with expert instruction.

Please see our Website for more information and to view fantastic photos from the summer. You'll see how much fun we have at Decoma Day Camp!

Feel free to contact us at any time with any questions you may have or to schedule a tour or home video presentation. We look forward to hearing from you!

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
Decoma is currently hiring for the summer.  If you are enthusiastic, energetic, sun-loving and enjoy working with children this is the summer job for you!  Apply on-line at Our Camp Website Link: www.decomadaycamp.com or give us a call at 847-945-4455.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: These fun, high energy camps teach a mixture of smooth and rhythm dances through the learning of fun routines. Perform the routines on the last day for friends and family!

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
July 14th-18th and/or August 11th-15th

Please refer to the studio's website for tuition fees

CAMP FACILITIES: At Eureka dormitory living with meals. Pool, workout area, and everything with in walking distance. Small town feel, safe and secure area.

At Peoria Ballet- State of the art studio's with Harlequin flooring. 4 studios. Small class sizes.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Intensive ballet training with modern, jazz, tap, lyrical too.
Performance after fifth week.
Peoria Ballet Artistic Director Servy Gallardo will be Master Teacher along with Guillermo Levya of Alma Dance Company, Chicago and Reida Dolbi.

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Family Camp

OTHER CAMP INFO: Brochure and registration information available at Our Camp Website Link: www.peoriaballet.com

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
June 17-July19.
You may enroll for one week or all five!
$310.00 per week. Housing at Eureka is $60.00 per day or $780.00 for 13 days.
For weeks following Eureka Host families may be available..

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
August 24-28, $235

CAMP FACILITIES: Located in the rolling hills and woods of Northwestern Illinois, our camp comprises beautiful woods, trails, a swimming pool, two all natural rock climbing walls, game fields, and a 5-acre lake for swimming, water games, and almost a mile of canoeing through the property. With 120 acres of forests, wildlife, and wildflowers galore, it offers fresh air, natural water, the robust smell of pure woods and a twinkling night sky.

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Kids love it here…and parents are equally excited about our program. In our past 9 years of parent surveys, 99% of respondents would recommend our camp to friends. The overwhelming majority of our parents noted their child’s improvement in:

Acknowledgment and Appreciation of Diversity
Conflict Resolution Skills
Personal Growth and Self Confidence
Positive Self Image and Empowerment
Leadership Skills

Specific past parent comments include:

“When I see how [my daughter’s] face lights up when she speaks about camp, it’s a priceless experience.”

“She absolutely loves the camp, the staff, and all the friends she makes there. I consider Kupugani to be a big influence in helping her to grow and expand her mind each summer; it has become an integral part of her summer vacation.”

CAMP LEADERSHIP CIT/LIT PROGRAMS: Our leadership programs help future young leaders transition from camper to counselor. In addition to being able to participate in regular camp activities, campers receive training to build their leadership knowledge and skill base.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Limited scholarships based on family size and income guidelines.

FAMILY CAMP SESSION(S): Mother Daughter Weekends
Parent Child Weekends

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
Please visit Our Camp Website Link: www.campkupugani.com for information.

SUMMER CAMP JOBS:
We are always looking for great people to work at camp as bunk counselors and and activity instructors.  If you are excited to work with children and want to find out more about a fantastic summer job opportunity, please visit our website at Our Camp Website Link: www.kupugani.com.  

There you'll find pictures, videos, information, and our staff application. You're also welcome to call or email with any questions.  Thanks!

CAMP PROGRAM INFO: Does your child LOVE movies?

Help them explore their talents at Facets Kids Film Camp, where kids ages 7 to 14 build a foundation in the technique, language and process of moviemaking.

Film fundamentals such as: film vocabulary, camera shots, story development, film review, film history, acting, and basic production technique are introduced through engaging presentations and dozens of hands-on activities.

Making a movie, watching and talking about movies, writing reviews, or seeing the first movie ever made; there's something for every budding film lover at Facets Kids Film Camp.

Enroll your child today!

Half-day session in June.
Full-day sessions in July.

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Scholarships are first come, first served and are based on need. Email kids[AT]facets.org for more details.

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMS: Facets Children and Youth offers screenings and filmmaking workshops throughout the year. Please visit Our Camp Website Link: www.facets.org for more information.

CAMP SESSION DATES & FEES:
HALF-DAY (10 days): $350
June 16 - June 27
Ages 11-14: 9am-12:30pm
Ages 7-10: 2pm-5:30pm

FULL-DAY (5 days): $450
July 7 - July 11 (ages 11-14)
July 14 - July 18 (ages 7-10)
July 21 - July 25 (ages 11-14)
July 28 - Aug 1 (ages 7-10)
9am-5pm

• 10% Facets Members discount.
• Snacks will be provided. Participants (full day) bring a sack lunch.