Record numbers for theatre camp
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 23/08/2024 (638 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
The Mecca Productions Summer Camp saw its biggest turnout this year.
At the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium, a record-setting 163 kids are singing and learning choreography.
The final day of the summer camp will conclude today with a show beginning at 2:30 p.m. inside the auditorium on campus at Brandon University.
“Number one, we want to have a lot of fun as we explore the performing arts,” says director Lisa Vasconcelos. “We know it builds confidence in students … By the end of the week, they’re up there just shining.”
It’s an annual, week-long camp that gives kids a chance to dive into theatre.
With ages ranging from pre-school to Grade 12, Vasconcelos says everyone is taught something different. The young kids may learn basic skills like standing in lines, singing and moving together, while seniors spend time developing skills with classes in drama, improv and dancing.
At the end, everyone comes together for a final show. It combines all ages for what Vasconcelos calls a melodic. More than 150 voices and bodies are choreographed into a group-singing spectacle for the crowd.
Theatre technician Dayne Hunter says the show will be put on with new sound equipment. Roughly $400,000 went into equipment this August for the auditorium, bringing upgrades that include new speakers and subwoofers.
The performance is being directed by Vasconcelos and her daughter, Tiana. The two share a lot of experience in theatre. Lisa co-founded the production company Mecca more than 20 years ago and has presented dozens of musicals. Tiana, a dancer and certified dance teacher, is at work helping lead the summer camp production.
“Can you be on that piece of tape?” asks Lisa, weaving around primary kids on stage. “Excellent. Good job!”
During rehearsals on Thursday, the children practised their voices and routines. Harmonies rang through the auditorium, and arms waved from groups of dozens on stage. The directors had their hands full leading up to show day. But things are coming along.
“Not too bad,” says Lisa from a chair in centre stage. “It’s like a six and a half out of 10.” She gets up to adjust some pieces of tape on the stage.
“By tomorrow it’s going to be an 11 out of 10 … Every time they step on the stage, they get better and better and better.”
It has been a big year for the summer camp with its record enrolment. And Lisa thinks they’ll aim bigger next year.
“We call it the best week of summer, and we really think it is.”
» cmcdowell@brandonsun.com
» X: @ConnorsCupful