This spring, the stage is yours! Whether you're looking to refine your craft, explore a new theatrical skill, or dive in for the first time, our brand-new Spring Series has something for everyone. With five exciting classes to choose from, you can pick the one that speaks to you—or take them all and make it a season of total transformation!

April 12: Jump and Turn with Emma Michael: This class focuses on the fundamentals of jumps and turns, helping you build strength, balance, and precision.  Learn targeted drills, technique exercises to help you develop the power and control needed to execute clean turns and soaring jumps with confidence.

April 26: Makeup for the Stage with Katey Martinek: In this hands-on class, you'll learn the fundamentals of theatrical makeup application, focusing on contouring and highlighting techniques that enhance facial features and expressions under stage lighting. 

May 3: Finding Your Audition Song: Selection & Preparation with Emma Peterman and Maggie Timmer: Explore how to analyze song choices, refine your vocal delivery, and bring authentic storytelling to your performance. Whether you're auditioning for a musical or building your repertoire, this class will help you walk into the audition room with confidence and a song that truly shines!

May 10: Getting the Most from Your Script with Katherine Mumma: This class will teach you how to use context clues—dialogue, stage directions, and character interactions—to make informed and compelling acting choices. You will explore using script analysis to bring depth and authenticity to your performance, ensuring that every line you deliver is rich with meaning. 

May 17: Latin Ball Room with Nadya Beyar: Feel the rhythm and ignite your passion for dance! This class introduces the fundamentals of Latin ballroom, focusing on the technique, footwork, and styling of popular dances like the Cha-Cha, Rumba, and Salsa. No partner required—just bring your energy and get ready to move!

Step into a world of creativity and fun with Imagine That! Through games, movement, storytelling, and improvisation, students will explore big emotions, build confidence, and bring their imaginations to life. With a focus on play and self-expression, this inclusive class welcomes youth ages 5 and up from the Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan to discover the joy of theatre in a supportive, engaging environment. Whether acting out a favorite story, creating new characters, or playing interactive theatre games, every class is filled with laughter, learning, and the magic of theatre!

Passcode:  Available in the member area of the DSAWM website

Musical Theatre Dance: Get your groove on!

Grades 1-5:  Musical Moves

Dates: Tu/Th July 8-17

Times: 5:30-6:30

Young performers will build confidence, coordination, and creativity in this energetic introduction to musical theatre dance. Each session includes a fun warm-up, beginner-friendly dance technique, and a playful Broadway-style combo set to a popular show tune. Students will explore storytelling through movement and learn how dance helps bring characters and songs to life—all in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Grades 6-9: Broadway Bound

Dates: Tu/Th July 8-17

Times: 6:45-7:45

Designed for older students ready to improve their dance technique, this class dives into the style, precision, and performance skills needed for musical theatre choreography. Whether preparing for auditions or just looking to have fun and improve, this class is a fantastic way to level up your performance presence.

Scene Partners: Making Connections on Stage

Teaching Artist: Shannon Hill

When: M,T,W,Th:  June 16-19 

This class offers a supportive space to explore the essentials of acting with others. Through engaging exercises, duet scene work, and honest feedback, students will strengthen their ability to listen, respond authentically, and build trust with a scene partner. With a special emphasis on connection, timing, and storytelling, participants will walk away with new tools for truthful acting, as well as a deeper appreciation for the collaborative nature of theatre. Great for actors preparing for auditions, productions, or anyone looking to grow in confidence and communication.

Broadway Moves: Four Nights. Four Genres. All Broadway.

Teaching Artist: Sara Sherman

This series of drop-in dance classes is the perfect way to sharpen your skills, explore new styles, and celebrate the movement that brings musical theatre to life. Each evening focuses on a unique genre, style, or storytelling technique, inspired by iconic Broadway shows.  Come to one or attend them all! 

June 17: Classic Musical Theatre Dance:  Featured Song: “Cool” from West Side Story

Learn moves from the Golden Age of Broadway, rooted in a combination of ballet and jazz technique. Inspired by the choreography of Agnes de Mille (Oklahoma!, Carousel) and Jerome Robbins (On the Town, West Side Story), this class focuses on a combination of graceful and sharp technical movements that flow smoothly into one another. 

June 19: Jazz Fusion: Featured Song: “Livin’ it Up” from Hadestown

This class infuses jazz technique with elements of street dance, funk, and contemporary movement, as seen in musicals like The Lion King, Wicked, and Hadestown. Learn how to move seamlessly between different styles to make a dance feel cohesive, while paying close attention to musical accents and rhythms. 

July 22: Contemporary Movement: Featured Song: “the Predatory Wasp” from Illinoise

Explore the power of telling a story through movement. Inspired by musicals like the Outsiders, Jagged Little Pill, and Illinoise, this class will teach you how to create fluid movements with your body, fueled by the emotional content of a musical piece. This unique dance form allows for freedom in movement and interpretation, embracing individuality and expression.

July 24: Hip Hop on Broadway

Featured Song: “Problem/Can’t Feel My Face” from & Juliet

This upbeat class will pair foundational street dance skills with high energy choreography. Inspired by musicals like Hell’s Kitchen, Hamilton, and & Juliet, learn the art of performing dynamic, hard-hitting movements that focus heavily on accenting the unique beats of pop, r&b, and hip hop music.

In the Moment: Improv for Actors

Teaching Artist: Christine Sargeant

When: M,T,W,Th, July 7-10, 6:00-8:00

Strong performances begin with strong presence. In this energizing class, actors will build their improvisation skills with a specific focus: sharpening in-the-moment awareness to bring more spontaneity, truth, and depth to scripted work. Through games, exercises, and improv challenges, participants will practice trusting their instincts, staying present with scene partners, and reacting truthfully—essential tools for character development and rehearsal room success. 

Stage Combat: The Art of the Sword

Teaching Artist: Steven Schwall, Certified Teacher of Stage Combat

When: Monday and Wednesday, 6:00-8:00

Step into the world of knights, heroes, and epic battles in this exciting stage combat series led by certified fight instructor Steven Schwall. With a medieval twist, each session will focus on the safe and dramatic use of traditional weapons, teaching the techniques and storytelling behind every strike. All experience levels welcome, this class is your training ground for epic storytelling.

Choose one or take both:

Single-Handed Broadsword – July 28 & 30
Learn the foundations of stage combat with the classic one-handed broadsword. This session covers footwork, targeting, timing, and partner safety—all while crafting believable and thrilling swordplay.

Broadsword with Shield – August 4 & 6
Level up your skills as you add the complexity of shield work to your combat vocabulary. This session introduces shield use for both defense and dramatic staging, building on the techniques of the first series or standing alone for new adventurers.

Is your child ready to discover the magic of musical theatre, all while exploring the timeless, whimsical world of Gilbert and Sullivan? This summer, join us for an unforgettable experience filled with singing, dancing, acting, and laughter! Under the guidance of our gifted Teaching Artists, participants will embark on a creative journey through the fun and catchy music of Gilbert & Sullivan, famous for their lively operettas that blend comedy, wit, and incredible melodies! Paired with a contemporary script, performers will sing, dance, and act their way through this “show within a show.”  

Gilbert and Sullivan Rocks provides an immersive experience into the world of musical theatre. Spaces are limited, so sign up today and get ready for a melodiously memorable adventure! 

Note:  Camper will work in age-simmiar groups.  

Lights, camera, action! The Kalamazoo Civic Theatre is bringing the magic of theatre to Richland in a special four-day mini-camp designed for young performers ages 4-10. Through theatre games, acting, singing, and dancing, students will explore the excitement of storytelling while building confidence, creativity, and teamwork. Plus, hands-on craft projects will add an extra spark of fun!

Each day is packed with imagination and discovery, led by experienced theatre educators who create a supportive space where every child can shine. On the final day, families are invited to a special showcase where campers will share some of the skills and creativity they’ve developed. Whether your child is a budding star or brand new to the stage, this camp is the perfect way to jump into the world of theatre!

Note:  This camp will be held at the Richland ARea Community Center

Join us for an exciting two weeks of pop-inspired musical theatre! This summer, we are going to stop the show with some of pop music’s greatest hits. Campers will develop their acting, dancing, and singing skills while preparing for a live performance featuring songs from chart-topping pop stars like Kelly Clarkson, Katy Perry, and Bruno Mars. Theatre games and group activities facilitated by our group of experienced and dedicated Teaching Artists will foster an environment that promotes confidence, teamwork, and creativity.  

Whether you’re a first-time performer or an experienced star, this camp will help you shine on stage and have a blast! Spaces are limited, so enroll today to discover your inner pop star! 

Note:  Camper will work in age-simmiar groups.  

Do you have a little one who loves to sing, dance, and use their imagination? Our Pajama Party camp is the perfect way for them to step into the spotlight! Your child will have a blast exploring the world of theatre through fun activities, crafts, and stories. Our team of experienced early childhood educators will guide your tiny thespians in exploring introductory singing, dancing, and acting concepts as they create an adorable bedtime routine-themed mini showcase to perform at the end of the session. With activities that inspire teamwork, confidence, and creativity, your child will learn to express themselves while having a blast!  

This camp is a perfect opportunity to introduce young children to the magic of musical theatre! Spaces are limited, so register today for a fun-filled adventure that encourages imagination and creativity. 

Please chose the camp below that best suits your child's age and experience.  

Do you have a child who loves theatre and wants to take their skills to the next level? Join us for an action-packed theatre camp where we’ll dive into scene work and stage combat in a fun, safe, and supportive environment! This camp will help participants develop essential skills that every actor needs. Under the guidance of our passionate Teaching Artists, campers will collaborate with one another to rehearse and perform exciting scenes while working on acting, emotional range, and character development. An experienced Fight Choreographer will coach participants in the art of safe, dramatic stage combat to help them gain confidence in performing action-packed scenes safely and effectively.  

Scenes and Stage Combat camp provides an excellent opportunity for students to sharpen their skills on the stage while also learning how to work together as an ensemble. Spaces are limited, so register today for an unforgettable action-packed summer camp experience! 

Set sail on a swashbuckling adventure at our Pirate Theatre! camp, where performers will have a blast learning improvisational skills, building characters, and preparing to bring two exciting pirate musicals to life! Students grades PS-2 will learn the ropes of being a pirate as they sing, dance, and act their way through the musical adventure, How to be a Pirate. Grades 3-9 will dive into the action-packed world of Pirates! The Hidden Treasure, working on character-building skills and stage presence while preparing for a thrilling performance full of treasure hunts and pirate fun! Participants of all ages will develop confidence, teamwork, and creativity while performing in their very own pirate adventure.  

Build your skills while becoming a part of the pirate crew! Spaces are limited, so register today and get ready to plunder the stage with us for an adventure you won’t forget! 

Note:  Camper will work in age-simmiar groups.  

Join us for a fun-filled, "play within a play" musical adventure! In this heartwarming story, a small-town theatre faces closure due to lack of funding, and it's up to the determined owner, director, and cast to save the day. With plenty of drama, comedy, and some delightful tunes, this camp will bring the story to life as participants explore the elements of a classic musical production. Perfect for teens and adults of all experience levels and abilities, The Best Little Theater in Town is a wonderful opportunity to learn, perform, and become part of an ensemble working together to create something truly special.  

Whether you are new to theatre or an experienced performer, this camp offers something for everyone. Spaces are limited, so register today! Bring your creativity, your passion, and your energy – and help us create the "Best Little Theater in Town!" 

Ever wondered what it takes to make a show come to life? Join our Technical Theatre camp and get hands-on experience in the exciting world of stagecraft! This camp is perfect for youth who want to explore the behind-the-scenes magic of theatre. Under the guidance of an experienced Technical Director, participants will gain real-world skills in props, lighting, sound, and design and put these new skills to the test by working on the backstage crew for our Summer Arts Spectacular production with the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Kalamazoo, Giants in the Sky.  Participants will experience the thrill of being part of the crew that makes the show happen! 

This camp is perfect for creative minds who love building, designing, and making magic happen behind the curtain. Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot today! 

Get ready to take center stage and unleash your inner superstar with our Summer Jams camp! Participants will develop confidence and creativity—rockstar style!   Campers grades PS-2 will learn the basics of musical theatre as they sing, dance, and jam out to classic radio hits like "Hound Dog” and “Footloose” in their production of On the Radio. Grades 3-9 will team together to form a show-stopping musical group as they learn the music of iconic bands like the Go-Go’s and Bon Jovi in Making the Band.  Campers of all ages will develop confidence in their voices, movement, and stage presence while jamming out with new friends to timeless tunes. 

This camp is packed with high-energy fun, musical excitement, and a chance to perform some of music's greatest hits! Limited spots are available.  Don't miss your opportunity to become part of the ultimate jam session! 

Note: Campers will work in age-similar groups.

The Academy of Theatre Arts is pleased to offer free Audition Workshops for each production of the season. Audition workshops are led by the production’s artistic team, using the same materials that will be used at the auditions. Time is built into the workshop for participants to receive personalized tips and feedback. 

Registration will be open two months prior to each workshop. Before registration opens, dates may change based upon staff ability.

The workshops cover the performers audition only – they may include information but not instruction about crew opportunities