Marian University’s Musical Theater Camp is taking center stage for its third consecutive summer, welcoming 17 enthusiastic students in grades 4 through 12 to Marian Hall’s Theatre. Throughout this weeklong camp, students are not just learning lines but creating an original show from the ground up.
This year’s production is a unique blend of jukebox musical and devised theater. Campers have collaborated to invent their plots and characters, weaving familiar songs with fresh, student-driven storytelling. The result is a one-of-a-kind performance that showcases both their creativity and teamwork.
Marian Adjunct Theatre Professor Caroline Sanchez, who leads the camp, says the process is as rewarding as the performance. “Watching students build something entirely their own—seeing their confidence and imagination grow—makes this camp so special,” she shares.
Twelve-year-old Nash Toppen, one of the campers, describes the excitement: “I’ve never made up my character before. It’s fun to see everyone’s ideas come together.” For 10-year-old Nora Smith, the highlight is performing with new friends: “I love singing and acting, but I also like how we help each other.” Eleven-year-old Aziyah Bragg adds, “We get to be creative every day. I can’t wait for my family to see our show.”
The camp culminated with a student performance on June 27 in Marian Hall’s Theatre, where families and friends will experience the campers’ original musical on stage.
For more information about Marian University’s summer camps, visit the university’s website or contact the Department of Music and Theatre at:
https://www.marian.edu/college-of-arts-and-sciences/department-of-music-and-theatre/