By: Missy Marquette
As Medina Centre for Dance Art prepares for another great summer session of dance camps and classes, we also just unveiled our 2024 Summer Rising Star Musical- Madagascar Jr! Rising Stars is a musical theater program sponsored by MCDA for ages 9-18 providing children a platform to express themselves creatively through acting, singing and dancing in the best of Broadway! We believe that when children participate in performing arts activities, they not only showcase their gifts and talents but also reap the benefits that contribute to their overall development. It’s more than 5…6…7…8!
Through the performing arts, children have a way to express themselves by creatively communicating their emotions, thoughts, and ideas in an entertaining and engaging setting. They learn to empathize with the characters they portray and convey them authentically to the audience. This not only improves their verbal communication skills but also helps them connect with the people watching them. Standing on a stage and performing in front of an audience is powerful! Children develop a sense of self-assurance as they receive smiles and applause for their efforts. This positivity enhances their newfound confidence and shines a light in them even after performing, influencing other aspects of their lives and the lives of those around them. Performing nurtures creativity and requires collaboration. Creating a character, learning choreography, singing music- kids are encouraged to think outside the box. This creativity surely extends beyond the arts and into the way they problem solve and approach challenges. Being part of a musical ensemble teaches children the importance of working together for a common goal. They learn to appreciate the opinions of others, cooperate as a team and feel a sense of responsibility that trickles into their school work, after school jobs and relationships.
The value of children performing extends far beyond the stage. These experiences nurture creativity, confidence and teamwork. Performing in the arts leads to strong self-assurance but also an understanding of different perspectives. Our kids work together for a common goal facing challenges with resilience and creative solutions. Let’s keep supporting and encouraging our children as they grow in the performing arts! Are you ready? And 5..6..7..8!
MCDA’s Rising Stars summer camp is May 29th-July 13th!
Kick-Off Party: May 29 from 11 am-12 pm.
Audition Day: May 31 from 9 am-12 pm.
Camp will continue Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays from 9-12 pm.
Each day students will work on dancing, singing, and acting. Along with production work, all Rising Star participants will take both jazz & hip hop dance classes weekly.
On July 12th and 13th, 2024 we will perform Madagascar Jr-A Musical Adventure in Medina Square! Can’t wait to see you there!