Summer camp at Florida Rep

Florida Repertory Theatre is holding a summer camp - Camp Florida Rep - for aspiring young actors.

In this theatre intensive summer day camp children in Kindergarten through 12th Grade attend two-week sessions where they sing, dance and design new musicals, under the guidance of theatre professionals. Camp Florida Rep is held at the historic Arcade Theatre.

Session 1 finishes Friday, June 15 with campers performing HONK JR., a musical about a family of ducks. It's a contemporary retelling of Hans Christian Andersen's classic story, "The Ugly Duckling." This different duckling must strike out to learn how our differences make us special.

A farcical fairytale comes to life during the second session, June 18 through June 29, ONCE UPON A MATTRESS. If you thought you knew the story of "The Princess and The Pea," you are in for a big surprise. Did you know that Princess Winnifred swam the moat to reach Prince Dauntless or that, it wasn't the pea at all that caused the princess a sleepless night? Campers of all ages can join the fun and find out the truth in this royally hilarious musical classic.

Travel to the Far East in session 3, DISNEY'S MULAN JR. This session held July 9 through July 20 takes campers to the legendary, story-telling days of ancient China in this action-packed stage adaptation of Disney's Mulan. The Huns have invaded, and it is up to the misfit Mulan and her mischievous dragon sidekick Mushu to save the Emperor. MULAN JR. is a heartwarming celebration of culture, honor and a fighting spirit perfect for campers regardless of age.

Campers will have a ball taking part in session 4, RODGERS AND HAMMERSTEIN'S CINDERELLA held July 23 through Aug 3. Join Cinderella and her Fairy Godmother as pumpkins become coaches and rags transform into a gorgeous gown, in this beloved version of the classic fairytale written by theatre legends Rogers and Hammerstein. A royal ball thrown by the prince's parents, a sour stepfamily and a special slipper make for a magical musical. This show is great for boys and girls of all ages.

Get ready to rhyme during our fifth and final session; SUESSICAL JR., August 6-17. This great musical lovingly brings all of our favorite Dr. Seuss characters to life, including Horton the Elephant, Gertrude McFuzz, Lazy Mayzie and all of the Whos of Whoville! These classic, colorful tales are brought together by Jojo, a young boy and "thinker of strange and wonderful thinks." Campers of all age, shape and size will bring this to life right before your eyes!

The cost of enrollment for Camp Florida Rep is $325 a session for Kindergarten through 6th grade. Children in grades 7 through 12 can register as a Star In Training, for a fee of $275 a session. A late pick up after care program is available for an additional $40 per session. Pre-registration is strongly recommended. For more information or to enroll call 239-332-4665 ext. 20.

If you go

>>What: Camp Florida Rep >>Where: The Florida Repertory Theatre, located on Bay between Jackson and Hendry in the Historic Riverfront District, Fort Myers >>When: Now through Aug. 17 >>Cost: $275 to $325 per two-week session >>Information: Call Florida Rep Education Director, Jamie Carmichael: (239) 332-4665 ext. 20. Online at www.floridarep.org