Performing Arts: Courage + Creativity
If you walk past the Lodge during Free Time, you might hear a voice belting out Country Roads, someone strumming a guitar, or the rhythmic clatter of tennis balls being juggled hitting the floor. You might even catch a glimpse of Colin, our Performing Arts activity leader, raising an eyebrow after a camper’s dramatic monologue—or quietly deadpanning, “What a finish. Show stopping.”
A Space to Be Brave
Colin Oram, from Hampshire, UK reminds us that what makes the performing arts block so meaningful is that “they have to want to act to be here.” Every boy who signs up has made a conscious decision to be part of this program—they know it might be a little awkward—or even a little scary—but they show up anyway.
“This place is different,” Colin said. “They love to perform because it’s safe here. They feel free to try something new—even if that something is trying out a drum beat on their belly in a group of guys."
And they do. The boys audition for the talent show with acts that range from speed cubing to comedy skits. Some bring serious skills; others bring serious heart. All are met with encouragement—and the occasional Colin-style English wit.
This session, Performing Arts blends theater and music into one dynamic block. It’s a place where boys:
- Warm up their voices and bodies for performance
- Practice improvisational thinking through games like The Bench Game
- Develop original characters and scenes through group storytelling
- Work on monologues, mini skits, and ensemble acting
- Explore the structure of a play—from casting to staging to final run-through
The Challenge of Time
One of the trickiest parts of Performing Arts at camp? Time.
“There’s so much they want to do,” Colin explained. “But they forget how full their days already are. Some boys want to memorize 30 lines in a day and rehearse during Evening Embers. It’s our job to keep things realistic. I don’t want to set anyone up for failure—I want everyone to succeed.”
Still, that doesn’t stop them from dreaming big. Between chapel skits, Morning Assembly cameos, and impromptu lakeside performances during events like DQ’s Revenge, the boys make every minute count.
Colin laughs when someone brings up the old quote that acting is really just the art of embarrassing yourself. He agrees—and that’s exactly what makes it so good.
Performing Arts at camp isn’t about perfection. It’s about stepping on stage when your hands are shaking. It’s about forgetting your line and finding your way back. It’s about discovering that creativity and courage often show up in the same breath.
By the time the play premieres and the curtain rises on the talent show, these boys will have learned more than just lines and lyrics. They’ll have learned how to take a risk, how to support each other, and how to tell a story that matters. And when it’s their turn to shine—whether it’s a skit, a song, or a solo—they’re more than ready for it.