Read what some of our current campers and their parents have to say about our program. All testimonials were provided for us by 2002 campers, and their parents, through our end of the year survey. This is just a sampling of the dozens of testimonials we received this year. (as of 8/20/02) Permission to use their words are on file in the Saginaw Valley State University Theatre Department. Testimonials for both the Fine Arts Day Camp & The Summer Theatre Institute are included. Thanks to all who sent in your thoughts and allowed us to share them! Enjoy!
"I have not seen Brittany laugh and be excited about something in a long time. She would get in the car at the end of the day and talk nonstop about how much fun she had. She loved meeting the other kids (she goes to a small school), there was not one kid she didn't like......She like the uniqueness and artsy way of the staff. She is one that watches and admires young adults.....I was very impressed with Ric and the performances. Keep up the great work, I am so thankful for his talents. Brittany and I give the camp and A+, she can't wait for next year!
~ Lisa Bartlett
"The first night my son was so excited after spending the day at camp, he didn't stop talking! He really enjoyed the staff and their professionalism. It was wonderful to learn about all of his "new" friends he met. The first night he was already talking about next years camp! Thanks for such a terrific opportunity!"
~ Nan Hagan
"Summer Theatre Institute is a good opportunity for my daughter to experience various aspects of theatre. She "accidentally" attended the 2001 camp which helped her realize that she does enjoy theatre. She has since volunteered at Pit & Balcony and has been more active in drama at school and church. Thanks for continuing to do this!"
~ Anna Largent
"The diversity of the students! It shows how the teachers team teach work, creativity and originality. My child has been able to express his individuality. I have seen the excitement and enthusiasm he has for these camps, not just during the summer, but the whole year through. I am very pleased with this program."
~ Mrs. J. Prinz
"Our daughter enjoys acting. This camp gives her a chance to explore different aspects of acting. She was very excited before camp even started because she very much wanted to learn stage fighting. (Stage Combat) She wants to continue with that. We enjoy seeing how much fun she has at the camp while learning!"
~ Nancy Stevens
"Kayleigh was very nervous on the first morning of the Summer Theatre Institute. She knew no one and was having second thoughts about attending. When I picked her up that afternoon, I could not believe her excitement! From that day on for the rest of the week, she could hardly wait to get there! I know that she enjoyed every aspect of the Summer Theatre Institute and I was happy to enroll (pre-register) her for the 2003 camp!"
~ Kim Knoerr
"Every parent of teens without summer jobs is looking for something fun and worthwhile for them to do during vacation. Since Chrissy loves drama, this was perfect! I was impressed with how well it was organized and supervised. I thought my daughter was safe and treated with respect. Of course, the show at the end of the week was awesome! The price was reasonable.....We were so glad to have a top quality program so close to home - Keep up the great work!"
~ Ann Mancroni
" What a joy to see my child enjoying herself and gaining self-confidence. I was as excited as she was to discuss the events of each day. Every class was relived in great detail - I felt as if I had been there! What enthusiasm! I think the greatest thing to hear was "I wish I could do this everyday!" She found something she can be passionate about that brings much joy to her life. Thank you for this extraordinary experience that we will never forget!"
~ Lisa Theiss
"The theatre camps have been a wonderful experience for my kids. They are not afraid to get up on stage or speak in public at an early age. This will only benefit them in the future in school, college and the work force. It has also brought kids together from different backgrounds and [my kids] have maintained some great friendships. Keep up the good work! This past year was Ashley's first year in the high school performance and I was very impressed!"
~ Barbara Hoffman
"A wonderful experience for both my children. The performance on Friday night is something I look forward to every year. They have learned so much and have experienced great things. I feel they have confidence and have increased their self-esteem by performing in front of and audience!"
~ Anne deBari
"Well mostly, I think that because of your camp I have found what I want to do for a living. Also, I have found great friends in your staff and a place I can volunteer my services! (at the FADC)"
~ Liz Largent
"Camp have taught me things and when someone can teach me, I know I can become better at something I love. I really enjoy how the staff is just as excited as the kids, even more. Camp opens my eyes to see that there are more people out there that are better then me and that means I have to work harder, and I enjoy doing that!"
~ Katherine Stevens
"What the camps have meant to me as a participant is that I can have something to do in the summer that I like to do! Also, it helps me with my future in theatre. Another thing is that I can make friends with the same interests as me!"
~ Tyler Prinz
"I have been attending camps for five years! The best thing for me has been building stage confidence and having fun and making friendships!"
~ Max Moore
"I have been interested in acting ever since the beginning of the 4th grade. Theatre camp was a dream come true. I love being on stage!"
~ Karli Jenkins
"I loved this camp! Although it was only my first year, I had a terrific time and definitely want top go back! It was a wonderful experience!"
~ Adrienne Green
"The Summer Theatre Institute and the Fine Arts Day Camp have meant a couple of tings to me. It's a way to let loose and be yourself. It's a great way to learn and prepare for middle school and high school plays. I also enjoy the final production on Friday so our parents can see what we have accomplished!"
~ Nicole Anegon
"They have taught me many things that may help me in the future and have helped me realize how fun camps can really be. I am so interested I am taking theatre in high school!"
~ Michelle deBari
