Summer is the perfect time to try something new, explore creativity and make memories you’ll never forget. This year, the Appell Center for the Performing Arts is setting the stage for summer programs that give kids of all ages—and even adults—the chance to dive into creative experiences that are playful, interactive, and unlike anything else you’ll find in York.
From building original plays or movie sound effects to learning improv comedy or jazz, these unique summer programs are perfect for students already involved in the arts or those just looking for a new creative outlet in an encouraging environment.
The Appell Center’s summer programs run in June, July and August in downtown York and are led by professional teaching artists.
Sound Effects Mini Camp
July 7–8 | Ages 8–13
9 AM – 12 PM | $75
Is your child a movie buff or just a creative kiddo that loves to make noise? At the Sound Effects Mini Camp, students ages 8-13 will discover the surprisingly fun world of Foley—the art of creating sound effects for film.
Working with producer and musician Chris Loser, campers will experiment with everyday objects to create everything from dramatic action sounds to silly sound effects while helping design audio for a short film. At the end of camp, families can watch the finished project on the big screen and hear the students’ creative work come to life.
Learn More About Sound Effects Mini Camp
Improv Comedy Intensives
July 9 | Ages 8–12
July 10 | Ages 13–18
July 11 | Adults
10 AM – 5 PM | $70
Performance at 4 PM
Are you or your kids looking to enjoy some laughs while learning something new this summer? Designed for kids, teens and adults, the Appell Center’s Improv Comedy Intensives are all about learning how to think fast, work as a team and have fun trying to make the audience laugh.
Led by actress and improv performer Chris Myers, these one-day intensives invite participants to jump into hilarious improv games and exercises to build confidence, communication skills and comedic timing. Each session culminates in a fun public performance where participants can show off their new skills. And for parents, the adult intensive offers a chance to step outside your comfort zone and have your own creative experience this summer.
Learn More About Improv Comedy Intensives
Build-A-Play Camp
July 13–17 | Ages 8–13
9 AM – 4 PM | $225
Performance Friday, July 17 at 3:30 PM
Do you have a kid who loves live theatre or has an incredible imagination? At Build-A-Play Camp, students ages 8-13 will spend the week writing scenes, developing characters, rehearsing performances, and even building the set for their very own original production.
Led by actress Chris Myers in partnership with Keystone Kidspace, this unique camp experience teaches kids the essential skills of performing arts: teamwork, thinking outside of the box and telling a great story. At the end of the week, all students will perform the play that they built in front of a live audience on stage at the Capitol Theatre.
Learn More About Build-A-Play Camp
Appell Center Jazz Ensemble
June 16 - August 18
Grades 9-12 (Grade 8 with recommendation)
Tuesdays, 6:30 PM - 8 PM | $200
Does your teen play a jazz instrument? This summer, high school musicians are invited to explore one of America’s greatest art forms through the inaugural Appell Center Jazz Ensemble.
Led by professional musician Matt Monticchio, students will spend 10 weeks learning ensemble performance, improvisation, lead sheets, and jazz fundamentals while performing together in a group setting. This program concludes with a public performance at the Capitol Theatre giving young musicians the unforgettable experience of performing live on a downtown York stage.
Learn More About the Appell Center Jazz Ensemble
Scholarships Available
The Appell Center for the Performing Arts believes creative opportunities should be accessible to everyone. Scholarship funds are available for most summer programs, helping more students and families participate in these transformative arts experiences. Contact the Appell Center’s Director of Education and Community Engagement, AJ Myers (ajmyers@appellcenter.org) for additional information.
Stage the Perfect Summer
Each Appell Center summer program is built around the idea that the arts should be experienced, explored, and available to all.
By creating opportunities for students of all ages to tell stories, perform, and collaborate in new ways,
the Appell Center continues its mission of using arts education to bring creativity and being a home for all your stages in the heart of downtown York.
