Young Performers Learn the Art of Putting on a Show

A little singing, a little dancing, a little acting and a whole lot of fun brought a rowdy group of kids together at a summer spotlight performing arts camp at

Kids from Hopkinton, Westborough and Northborough spent the week incorporating songs, dances and skits into a half hour original show, “Make ‘Em Laugh."  They also worked on props and costumes.

“From the start, I could tell we were in for a fun week," said Jodi Palmieri, artistic director and owner of the studio. "Kids came running up the stairs excited and with happy faces.”

In the course of the week, Emilio Colon, a vocal coach, worked with the kids on a Justin Bieber song,  Katelyn Bartelson added her grace to a very dramatic lyrical dance, and Palmieri included her flare for comical musical theater.

“We combined all sorts of fun things like learning a new dance move, acting in a skit and singing a song called “Never Say Never”, says student, Breana Thomas.

To complete everyone’s looks, Gretchen Stephan from the came to give a special FX make-up demonstration.  A few students were given black eyes and split lips so they would get the feel of being made up.

“It was fun to see how different we all looked with the different make-up on, "student Linnea Dean said. "Especially on Friday, when we all got the red carpet glam look."

Working hard all week getting the show ready didn’t keep this group from a few fun activities including a walk to the town common for a picnic lunch, a celebratory pizza lunch at on the last day and ice cream cones from Brigham’s.

At the end of the week, before everyone said goodbye, parents were invited to watch the final performance.   

“The kids put on a show that was well rehearsed, and wonderfully entertaining,” said Palmieri.

The next session of camp is scheduled for August 8-12, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.  Register at www.letssingdanceact.com.