(By Bella Morin – Learn and Earn Intern, Partners for Rural Impact)
Theater is an excellent outlet for people to express their artistic talent and provide an entertaining performance for the public. It’s a sport like any other, and is the most rewarding work that I’ve ever participated in.
I personally have done theater since I was in middle school before moving to Williamsburg, and was one of the first to join Williamsburg’s theater program alongside several very talented friends of mine. Theater has always been an outlet of self expression for me in a way that no other sport or activity was. It connects me with those around me, and gives me a space to fully be myself through acting and singing. Theater has taught me so many things about myself and how I fit into this world and community. I truly love it more than anything.
Most people don’t think about the educational or academic benefits of theater, but it requires a lot of effort to be able to memorize lines and perform while also being in front of a large crowd. Public speaking is an extremely valuable life skill, and when it boils down to it, theater is public speaking. Aside from that, the social aspects of theater are wonderful. It is such an easy way to meet like-minded, passionate people who could very easily become best friends for life.
From July 14-18 from 8 a.m.-3 p.m., Williamsburg City School will be having their first-ever theater camp. Open to children in grades 1-6, this program will have actual theater class members who help run the program, teach and help kids learn how to act. The program will conclude with a performance of “The Cheese Stands Alone” on Friday, July 18 at 6 p.m. Tickets for the performance will be five dollars at the door.
The pricing for registration ranges from 50 dollars for one child, 75 dollars for two, and 80 dollars for three or more. All proceeds go to funding Williamsburg’s actual theater class started by Mr. Jonathan Wyatt, the same man running the camp along with several of my close friends and myself.
Other information, including how to register your child, can be found out via email with Mr. Wyatt at jonathan.wyatt@wburg.kyschools.us.
I’m so excited to see everyone’s bright smiling faces. Theater is seen by many as a hobby, but it is a lifelong skill used everyday and helps people find their voice and their passion. I know that I’ve made some everlasting friends through my experience working in theater, and I know that so many people out there can too.
If you find yourself reading this and questioning whether you should or shouldn’t come to the Jacket Theater Camp, then you should do it! It will be a fun, educational, and valuable experience for all, and it is sure to make great memories! We hope to see you there.
