Theatre camp ignites kids’ love for the arts

A Summer of Growth and Artistic Expression

In Scranton, Lackawanna County, a local summer camp is making a significant impact on the lives of young people who have a passion for the arts. The Scranton Cultural Center’s Youth Theatre Program offers an immersive experience where kids and teens can explore their talents in singing, acting, and dancing. This program not only helps them develop performance skills but also fosters lasting friendships that many cherish for years to come.

For students like Finley Culkin, the camp is more than just a place to learn—it’s a place where they feel at home. “I remember the first time I signed up for this camp, and I came home and said to my mom that I found my people,” Culkin shared. The program runs for six weeks, with each day dedicated to honing their craft through various artistic activities. The culmination of their efforts is a performance for family and friends, but it’s the daily learning and rehearsals that leave the most lasting impressions.

Lola O’Neill, another participant, described how the program has helped her find her place. “It just makes me feel really happy because regardless of if you don’t fit in somewhere, you always will find your place, and I feel like this is mine.” Many students have spoken about how the program has helped them come out of their shells and gain confidence.

“I used to be a really shy kid, and I didn’t have many kids when I did go to school, and I think I’m the complete opposite now. I am very confident, quite loud, and I have a lot of friends that I’m so grateful for,” Culkin added. Onofrio Anthony-Duricko, another student, shared his experience as well. “I was nervous at first because it was my first time last summer, but it felt good because there’s a lot of kids there like me that like theatre. So, I made friends pretty easily.”

The instructors take great pride in watching the students grow. Camille Reinecke, the director of the Scranton Cultural Center Youth Theatre Program, emphasized the importance of introducing children to the arts. “To be able to introduce kids to the arts and develop new arts supporters and lovers that will grow up and be the ones supporting the arts is really fantastic.”

This summer, the older division of the program will take the stage for their production of Beetlejuice Junior. The performances are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the students, who have spent weeks preparing for this moment.

As the program continues to thrive, it remains a vital part of the community, offering young people the opportunity to explore their creativity and build lasting connections. For many, it’s more than just a summer camp—it’s a place where they discover who they are and where they belong.