The Gloucester Stage Company’s weeklong Youth Summer Camp gave Gloucester High School theater students a head start on the school year’s big production, writes Santana Faria in the school’s student newspaper.
The program introduced participants to a range of musical theater styles while sharpening skills they’ll need for the winter musical’s auditions. “We teach them how to have a good audition,” the group’s new director was quoted as saying, describing the camp as an “intro” to the more demanding winter show.
Over the course of a week, students trained in choreography, voice projection, and stage presence — all without the aid of microphones. “We’re going back to the old days of projection and … how to use your full body to become a performer,” he explained. For one participant, the biggest takeaway was “how to tackle hard choreography,” a skill she’ll carry into future auditions.
The final Musical Theater Intensive Showcase earlier this month featured group numbers, duets, trios, and solos from productions like In the Heights and Dear Evan Hansen. Tickets were by donation, with proceeds supporting the winter show and scholarships for young performers.