BEREA, Ky. — Summer break can be a challenge for families who want something more meaningful than another week of screens, but still need a structured, full-day environment for their children.
Spotlight Acting School’s Creative Arts Camp is designed to fill that gap. Running Monday through Friday, June 8–12, at The Spotlight Playhouse (214 Richmond Road), the camp offers a week of hands-on arts classes, age-based groups, and a short end-of-week presentation for families.
🎭 A Week Built Around Variety
The camp is structured so that students aren’t tied to a single activity all day. Campers rotate through six distinct classes each day, covering:
- Acting and Music
- Musical Theater Dance
- Visual Art
- Set and Costume Design
- Stage Makeup
For many kids, the variety is the draw. Some arrive thinking they only enjoy visual art or only like performance, then discover they enjoy a different part of the process once they try it. This format gives students room to explore without the pressure of a full show rehearsal schedule.
🗽 The 2026 Theme: “New York, New York”
This year’s theme uses the high-energy world of the “Big Apple” as a creative starting point for both the performing and visual arts. Themes like this help younger campers connect ideas across different classes. A dance session and a set design session feel related when students are working inside the same creative world all week.
👨👩👧👦 Why Families Value Arts Camps
For parents, the benefit is often practical. The camp offers a full-day schedule with drop-off beginning at 7:45 a.m. and pick-up by 4:00 p.m., making it a viable option for families working through the summer.
For the campers, the value is social and developmental. Performing arts camps build comfort with speaking up, collaborating in groups, and taking creative risks in a supportive setting. Even students who do not see themselves as “theater kids” benefit from learning how to present ideas, listen to direction, and build confidence through a shared goal.
🎉 A Week with a Finish Line
On Friday, families are invited for a short presentation where campers share what they have been working on. This gives students a clear goal for the week without the high pressure of a full production. It is a chance to celebrate growth and head into the rest of summer with a tangible “win.”
✅ What to Know Before You Go
- Ages: Rising 1st graders through 9th grade (divided by age group).
- Tuition: $150 for the week.
- Logistics: Drop-off begins at 7:45 a.m.; pick-up is by 4:00 p.m. Students should bring a packed lunch, though families may also choose to have food delivered.
- Registration: Paperwork is completed at the first drop-off. Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged.
Click Here to Register for Creative Arts Camp
For specific questions, contact chad@spotlightactingschool.com or call 859-756-0011.
About the Author
Dr. Chad Hembree serves as the Executive Director of Spotlight Acting School, The Spotlight Playhouse, and Spotlight Performing Arts. Affectionately known as “Mr. Chad,” he is an accomplished performer, director, and creative executive who draws on his broad experience to guide students and staff with creativity, care, and a passion for making community events accessible to everyone in Berea.
Upcoming Events in Berea & Beyond
🌿 Community, Arts & Outdoors
- Eastern Kentucky University Commencement — May 7–8
- Studio Space Spring Soiree (105 Jackson St.) — Friday, May 8, 5:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
- Berea Runners Saturday Group Run (Native Bagel Co.) — Saturday, May 9 at 8:00 a.m.
- Berea Farmers Market (Chestnut Street Pavilion) — Saturdays, 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
- Berea Arts Council Plant Sale (444 Chestnut St.) — Saturday, May 9, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
- Berea College Commencement — Sunday, May 10
- Amy Lewis “Origins” Reception (444 Chestnut St.) — Friday, May 15, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
- Madison Central High School Graduation (Alumni Coliseum) — Friday, May 22 at 7:00 p.m.
- Model Laboratory School Graduation — Friday, May 22
- Madison Southern High School Graduation (Alumni Coliseum) — Saturday, May 23 at 10:00 a.m.
🎭 Theater & Performance at The Spotlight Playhouse
(Tickets and info for all shows: thespotlightplayhouse.com)
- Madagascar: A Musical Adventure JR. — Final Weekend! Closes May 10
- The Secret Garden (The Bluegrass Players) — Final Weekend! Closes May 10
- Annie: The Musical (The Bluegrass Players) — May 15–24
- Annie KIDS (Spotlight Acting School) — May 29–June 7
- Creative Arts Camp (“New York, New York”) — June 8–12
- “Oh, Those Summer Nights” Intergenerational Intensive — June 14–27
- Macbeth (The Bluegrass Players) — June 19–28
- Film Acting Camp (Rising 6th–Age 18) — June 29–July 3
- Seussical the Musical (Ages 14–18) — July 31–Aug. 9