Summer – Stage 2: Performance Camp
Grades 2-8
Performance campers are immersed in the world of theatre during this two-week, performance-based session. Participating in vocal music, drama, dance, and theatre production classes daily, campers have fun learning new skills while focusing on putting on the final performance at the end of the session. A typical day at Stage 2: Performance camp includes classes in singing, dancing, acting, creating, two nutrition breaks, and at least one special activity each day!
Final performances are the culmination of the camp experience and are mandatory for our students! They take place on the Saturday following the last day of each session.
Campers may participate in only one session of Stage 2: Performance Camp each summer. Additionally, to allow as many students as possible to participate in our programs, we will not accept campers into both the Performance and Junior Broadway Camp.
Fee:
$650 for two-week session
(plus handling fee)
Dates and Times:
Session A: June 30 – July 12
Session B: July 14 – 26
Session C: July 28 – August 9
Monday-Friday from 9:00 am – 3:30 pm (including holidays)
Performances held on the second Saturday at 9:30 am and 11:30 am
Location:
Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre
357 Wilson St. E
Ancaster, ON, L9G 2C1
Performances held in the Voortman Studio Theatre
Before & After Care
- We offer extended care before and after the regular camp hours.
- Morning Care: 7:30 am – 9:00 am, $12 per day
- Afternoon Care: 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm, $18 per day
- Both Morning Care and Afternoon Care: $30 per day
- Cancellation and full refunds are allowed up to and including the Friday before your selected dates begin. For example, if you registered for child care the week of Monday, July 15 – a full refund of your fee will be offered up until Friday, July 12.
- To ensure proper staff-to-child ratios, refunds will not be offered for days that your child does not attend the before and after care program once the session has already begun.
Ashlyn Yood
Director
Ashlyn is thrilled to be the Program Director for Stage 2: Performance Camp. No stranger to Theatre Ancaster’s Youth Programming, Ashlyn had been a part of the Jitterbugs team since 2009. She is also an elementary teacher with Halton District School Board with experience teaching students ranging from Kindergarten through Grade 8 over the last six years. Ashlyn holds a Bachelor of Education in Primary/Junior Education, and an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Culture, Society and the Environment with minors in Psychology and Philosophy. Since graduating, she has gained additional qualifications in Intermediate Studies, Special Education, and Inclusive Instruction. Growing up, Ashlyn was a competitive dancer for 12 years in jazz, tap, ballet, and musical theatre and was a performer with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines. In 2019, she was the Assistant Stage Manager for our Mainstage show, Mamma Mia. Ashlyn loves being a part of all the excitement and adventure that Stage 2: Performance Camp has to offer!
FAQ
What does a typical camp day look like?
Each day starts with a fun group game and rehearsal. Campers then rotate through four arts classes—Drama, Dance, Music, and Production—with two nutrition breaks in between. We also have special activities like Talent Show, Water Day, themed games, and final show rehearsals throughout the two-week session.
What is your staff-to-camper ratio?
We typically enroll 45 campers supported by seven full-time staff to ensure a safe and engaging experience.
What qualifications and training do your staff have?
Our staff consists of qualified and experienced educators from both formal education and arts industry backgrounds. They receive extensive training in child development, safety, and effective teaching. Every staff member holds:
✔ Level C First Aid/CPR certification
✔ A Vulnerable Sector Records Check
Are campers in one large group or several smaller groups?
Campers take part in some activities together, such as group games and rehearsals. However, for class sessions in singing, dancing, acting, and theatre production, campers are divided into smaller age-based groups: Juniors, Inters, and Seniors.
Do campers spend time outdoors?
Yes! Weather permitting, campers enjoy their nutrition breaks outdoors in a shaded area at Memorial Arts Centre. One of our camp days is Wild Water Day, where campers spend a few hours outdoors playing water games.
Where and when do campers eat? Is lunch provided
We follow a two-nutrition break schedule similar to HWDSB schools. Campers have two long breaks for eating, with at least one taken outdoors when possible. Lunch is not provided—campers must bring a nut-free packed lunch.
Is participation in the final performance mandatory?
Yes—attendance for both final performances is required. The entire camp experience is built around preparing for this show, and every camper has a crucial role. Full participation ensures the best experience for both the performers and the audience. By enrolling, families agree to this commitment.
How long is the final performance?
The Stage 2: Performance Camp final show lasts about one hour. Audience seating opens 15 minutes before showtime.
What is your refund policy?
If a participant withdraws, refunds are issued as follows:
- 100% of the registration fee will be refunded before the beginning of the program.
- 75% of the registration fee will be refunded after the first class/rehearsal.
- 50% of the registration fee will be available after the second or third class/rehearsal.
- No refunds will be issued after four classes/rehearsals.
All refunds at the participant’s request will be subject to a $25 administration fee.