Summer Camp Spotlight: Summer Arts at Derby Academy

Summer Arts at Derby is a five-week day camp that focuses on the visual and performing arts. Held at , the program offers classes in visual arts, dance, drama, media, music, photography, writing, gymnastics and sports. Courses are taught by professional artists and offer children the opportunity to discover their individual talents and develop their artistic skills. 

This year, 175 campers, ages 6-15, are taking part. The typical daily schedule includes a group meeting to start the day at 9:00 a.m., followed by three classes. After lunch and the “noontime show” – a student performance – comes the Festival Period, a  free-choice period with selections including improvisational theatre, cooking, sports, board and card games, dance, clay, jewelry, sprinklers, photo dark room and more. Two more classes, a final meeting and dismissal at 4:00 p.m. round out the day. 

This year’s five-week session began on June 27. Campers will put on two musicals this week, the final week of camp. “Crazy for You” will be performed on Wednesday and Thursday at 7:30 p.m., and “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” will be performed on Friday at 1:45. In addition, Friday is “Festival Day,” which will showcase campers’ artwork and performances. Opening ceremonies begin at 9:00 a.m. in Larson Hall, finishing between 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.. Musical performances and Festival Day are open to the public. For more information, contact Thalia McMillion, Director, at tmcmillion@derbyacademy.org.