The Garden Theatre is very excited to be hosting two different week-long film camp experiences this summer. Our “Elements of Film” curriculum, which launched last year, will be returning. We will also be debuting a new week-long curriculum, “Intro to Filmmaking.”

Elements of Film: July 7th to July 11th, 9am to 3pm Open to rising 5th through 7th graders

While engaging in hands-on activities and guided viewing of short films, campers will explore film history and visual literacy through key cinematic elements, such as story, sound, and camera technique. Additionally, campers will have the opportunity to hone their director’s eye starting with storyboarding sessions and seeing what it takes to turn their ideas into mini film projects, using intuitive filmmaking software.

This 5-day camp will impart a discerning sense of storytelling and the visual arts that will not only serve budding filmmakers and content creators but any young person who wants to be a conscientious consumer of all media.

Tuition is $500 for the general public and $475 for theater members.

Register

Intro to Filmmaking: July 14th to July 18th, 9am to 3pm Open to rising 6th through 8th graders

In this program, we will dive into the essentials of filmmaking, using more advanced equipment and software than is utilized in the “Elements of Film” curriculum. Campers will learn the importance of different jobs on a film set and how to begin writing for the screen, all while further honing their shooting and editing skills.

Using DSLR cameras and more sophisticated editing software, campers will work as a team to produce a short film with a shared vision that they can be proud of by the end of the week. Families will be invited to a special screening of the finished products at the end of the week.

Tuition is $600 for the general public and $575 for theater members.

Please note that the “Elements of Film” curriculum, or some equivalent, is a prerequisite for “Intro to Filmmaking.” Both camps can be attended together this summer. Campers returning from last year are particularly encouraged to consider “Intro to Filmmaking.” Both camps can be taken together this summer by any rising 6th or 7th grader.

Register

How many campers will there be? We will have 10 to 15 campers in “Elements of Film” and 10 to 12 campers in “Intro to Filmmaking.”

When is payment due? Payment is due at the time of registration.

Is lunch provided? No. Campers should bring a bagged lunch with them. We are able to keep the lunches refrigerated as well as heat them up in a microwave.

Will there be outdoor activities? On days when the weather allows, we may go on brief excursions on foot around town.

Do we need to provide our own cameras or devices? No. We will have a supply of refurbished iPhones that campers can use in small groups for Elements of Film.

For “Intro to Filmmaking,” campers do not need to bring their own devices. We will provide DSLR cameras and laptops for shooting and editing, as well as iPhones for shorter activities

Should you bring water bottles? Yes.

Do you have a refrigerator to keep lunches cold? Yes.

Are there snacks provided? Popcorn and other light, prepackaged snacks will be provided. Campers are welcome to bring their own snacks in addition to lunch if they’d like.

What else should my child bring to camp? Your child should wear comfortable clothing that is easy to move around in. A sweatshirt and sunscreen are recommended – layering will be useful as outdoors will be warm but the AC makes the theaters cool.

Do you offer after care between 3pm and 5pm? Unfortunately, we are not able to offer aftercare.

Who will be running the camp? Julia Mahony, the Garden Theatre’s Educational Programs Director, will be in charge of running the camps. Julia holds an MA in English Literature and has worked as a teacher with students ranging from elementary school to college.

Kyle Stenger holds an MA in History and has spent the better part of the last decade steering the Garden Theatre as head manager, recently taking on the additional role of Outreach Director. Kyle will join us for “Elements of Film.”

Chris Zurzolo, who has been a part of the Garden team for several years, has extensive experience working with kids, and holds a degree in Communications with a specialization in Radio/TV/Film. He will be teaching at both camps.

Rachel Mihatov holds a degree in filmmaking from the Mason Gross School of the Arts. She produced an award winning documentary short and has worked on professional film projects. She will be teaching at both camps.

Where do I find out more about day to day activities? Parents of registered campers will be given a sample itinerary featuring potential short films and clips that will be screened. More details on the activities and lessons will be forthcoming as we approach the camp’s start date.