Another noteworthy musical theatre program, that has yet to be discussed in this thread, is The Musical Theatre Lab at Vineyard Arts which runs for two weeks from the end of July through the first third of August on Martha’s Vineyard, an island off the coast of Massachusetts. They take applications through April 1st but if you become interested in this program I would encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible, because there are only 28 spots and reduced tuition rates for earlier payments.
There are a myriad of musical theatre camps so part of the challenge is to find one that comes closest to what you are looking for.
I don’t have any direct experience or affiliation with the Musical Theatre Lab, but here’s what I’ve learned by talking to people who have (including those on CC):
- For 15 to 20 year olds
- A "by video" audition selection process for applicants; they are not looking for slick audition videos but rather an authentic representation of you and what you have to say
- Capped to allow for individual feedback
- It is an immersive program focused on acting, singing, dancing, and audition preparation as well as giving the participants the mental, emotional, and physical foundation for a healthy career
- It's run by two Broadway veterans who have had long professional careers and who are now passionate about teaching
- There are at least ten other regular and guest faculty members, most of whom are leaders in their field
- The atmosphere is 1) where performers are encouraged to explore, make mistakes and work on their artistic and physical capacity, and 2) focused on training while developing personal and professional relationships
- Multiple students end up returning summer over summer because of the quality of the experience
- While the program ends with a "sharing," it's not focused on culminating with a polished presentation but rather on all the items listed above
- Usually one will find some "cons," negative review or even a "but ...." about a program; I've not found a single one unless you are looking to participate in a polished presentation at the end of the two weeks.
If someone has other information or a different perspective on this program, please share it here.