Youth Theater

Summer

summer theater camp

9-16 Yr Olds

Ready for a complete theatrical adventure — auditions, rehearsal, and performance all included? Our summer theater camp is just the thing! We’ll start with auditions in June (everyone gets a part), with audition times to be assigned soon. Scripts will be available ahead of time, then over the course of two weeks, we’ll rehearse and perform the mystery‑comedy Too Many Detectives at the Murder Mansion by Ian McWethy — a fun show featuring some familiar detectives parents and kids will love. Whether you’re a total newbie or have some stage experience, this camp gives everyone a role and an opportunity to build confidence, sharpen performance skills, and blossom as part of a cast. Come ready to dive in, discover your character, and enjoy an unforgettable summer performance experience! Participants under the age of 11 should have completed at least one previous Zeeland Rec theater camp/class. 

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Mon, June 15
  • Cost: $139r/$154nr
  • Instructor: Jessica Fox
  • Camp: 
    • Date: July 27-30 + Aug 3-6 (Two Weeks)
    • Time: 6:00-8:30 PM
    • Location: Cityside MS - Lokers Auditorium
    • Possible Additional Dates (based on size of camp): July 21 & 23
  • Performances: 
    • Wed, Aug 5 - 7:30 PM
    • Thur, Aug 6 - 7:30 PM

Fall & Winter

musical theatre - dance & movement intensive 

6th-12th Gr

This class, taught by the Founder and Former Director of the Zeeland High School Dance Program and current Zeeland High Players Choreographer, is designed for middle and high school students who want to grow as confident, versatile movers in musical theatre. Students will build a technical foundation through a variety of dance styles, including jazz, ballet, contemporary, and more. Emphasis will be placed on improving coordination, strengthening movement quality, and developing confidence, all while learning how dance enhances storytelling and character development on stage. Each class will begin with a structured warm-up, followed by focused work on dance vocabulary, skills, and technique. The final 30 minutes will be dedicated to learning choreography or participating in a character study inspired by a specific show or genre. By the end of the intensive, students can expect to gain a solid understanding of dance terminology, develop tools for approaching choreography in a rehearsal setting, and discover how movement brings characters and stories to life in musical theatre. The course is designed for students interested in theatre who have no formal dance training but may come with some experience in theatre. However students of all levels who do have dance training are welcome to join in the fun! This class is also great preparation for musical auditions at the high school and middle school level!

  • Register Here (Online Registration Opens Mon, Aug 3 @ 10:00 AM)
  • Registration Deadline: Wed, Sept 9
  • Cost: $60r/$75nr 
  • Instructor: Nancy Clyde
  • Dates: Wed | Sept 16-Oct 21
  • Time: 6:30-7:45 PM

  • Location: Zeeland East HS - South Studio

introduction to theater

8-12 Yr Olds

Eager to explore acting and theater? This beginner-friendly class introduces you to essential performance techniques, including voice, movement, improvisation, and character development, in a fun and supportive environment. Whether you are stepping on stage for the first time or looking to build confidence and creativity, this class is a great place to begin. 

  • Register Here (Online Registration Opens Mon, Aug 3 @ 10:00 AM)
  • Cost: $35r/$50nr 
  • Instructor: Jessica Fox
  • Dates: Sat | Nov 7-21
  • Time: 9:00-10:15 AM

  • Location: Cityside MS - Performing Arts Room

creating a character

9-13 Yr Olds

Get ready to dive into character development! This program guides participants step-by-step through creating compelling characters—whether scripted or improvised. Through hands-on exercises, you’ll explore physicality, vocal traits, and backstory to bring characters to life. Ideal for students who have completed Introduction to Theater or taken part in our summer theater program, this class builds on existing skills to deepen theatrical understanding and creativity.

  • Register Here (Online Registration Opens Mon, Aug 3 @ 10:00 AM)
  • Cost: $39r/$54nr 
  • Instructor: Jessica Fox
  • Dates: Sat | Nov 7-21
  • Time: 10:30 AM-12:00 PM

  • Location: Cityside MS - Performing Arts Room

reader's theater

10-14 Yr Olds

Ready for a fun and creative theater experience without the pressure of memorizing lines? In this Reader’s Theater program, older kids will perform a short play by reading from scripts—no costumes, props, or memorization required. Through expressive vocal delivery and shared storytelling, students will strengthen reading fluency, comprehension, and confidence on stage. The session culminates in a final performance, so it’s essential that participants commit to attending all three workshops—and the makeup date if needed—to ensure a polished, cohesive show.

  • Register Here (Online Registration Opens Mon, Aug 3 @ 10:00 AM)
  • Cost: $53r/$68nr 
  • Instructor: Jessica Fox
  • Dates: Sat | Jan 16-30
  • Time: 10:00 AM-12:00 PM

  • Location: Cityside MS - Performing Arts Room