A Parent’s Guide To DGPA Summer Camp
Summer at Deo Gloria Performing Arts is more than just a break from school; it is a high-energy, faith-filled intensive where your child learns how to use their gifts for Christ. We know that for parents—especially those new to the theater world—the logistics can feel like a lot to juggle. Our goal is to make this experience as smooth as possible for you and as fun as possible for your camper.
Here is your comprehensive guide to navigating the summer camp journey, from the first audition video to the final standing ovation.
Phase 1: The Pre-Camp Preparation
Success on stage begins long before the first day of camp. Because we put on a production in a short amount of time, the pre-camp phase is essential for setting the groundwork.
The Audition Process
Once you register, you will receive a detailed email regarding auditions. These are done via video. Your child will typically be asked to perform a song or a monologue from the show.
The Slate: Every video should start with a slate. This is simply your child looking at the camera and clearly stating their name and age.
The Frame: When filming, try to capture most of their body in the shot so the creative team can see their physical expression and movement.
Technical Quality: You don’t need a professional studio! Just ensure the lighting is in front of them (not behind them) so we can see their face, and keep the room quiet so their voice is clear.
Memorization and Scripts
A few weeks after auditions, we will send out the cast list and scripts. This is where the real work begins!
Highlighting: Have your camper go through the script and highlight every one of their lines.
Cue Lines: It is just as important to know the line before theirs (the cue line) as it is to know their own.
Being Off-Book: We ask that campers arrive on Day One with their lines largely memorized. This allows us to move straight into blocking and choreography rather than spending time reading from the page.
Tickets
Don't forget to head over to the DGPA website early to purchase your tickets. Our summer shows tend to sell out quickly, and you’ll want to make sure your friends and family have their seats reserved!
Phase 2: Getting Ready for the Week
The Sunday evening before camp starts is the perfect time to set the tone for the week. To avoid the Monday morning rush, we highly recommend preparing everything in advance. Lay out their clothes, pack their bag, and have their lunch ready to go. A smooth morning at home leads to a great first day.
Phase 3: During the Week
Packing for Success
Your camper will be moving, dancing, and working hard all day. Their bag should be packed with:
Hydration: A large, sturdy water bottle.
Nutrition: A nut-free lunch that does not require heating, plus a couple of healthy snacks to keep their energy up.
Materials: Their highlighted script and a pencil for taking notes during blocking.
Attire: Comfortable clothing they can move in easily while adhering to the DGPA dress code.
Drop-off and Pick-up Procedures
Punctuality is a form of respect for the cast and the crew. Please make sure to be on time so your camper doesn't miss the morning worship or important announcements.
Drop-off: You must walk your child into the building to the check-in desk. Our staff will be there to greet you and ensure your child is settled.
Pick-up: For the safety of every student, we require parents to come inside for pick-up. Please have your identification ready, as we follow strict check-out protocols to ensure every child goes home with the right person.
After-Camp Recovery
Theater is physically and emotionally demanding. When your camper gets home, they will likely be very tired and very hungry!
Feed and Rest: Provide a hearty dinner and encourage an early bedtime.
Review: Spend a little time each evening reviewing the new choreography or songs they learned that day. It helps lock in the day’s progress.
Phase 4: The Base Layer and Costumes
As we move closer to the performance, you will be assigned a specific day to send your camper with their base layer in a bag clearly labeled with their name. This is clearly outlined in our blog post on the base layer. Please ensure any other specific costume requirements (like specific shoes or socks) are included in this bag.
Phase 5: The Grand Finale (Friday and Saturday)
The end of the week is where all the hard work pays off!
Friday Night: This is a long and exciting day. We provide a pizza dinner for the campers on Friday evening (please let us know about any food allergies well in advance!). Because we go straight from rehearsal into the performance, you won't pick your child up until after the show is over.
The Performance:
Seating: Seating is open, so we recommend arriving early to get a good spot. As mentioned, these shows are popular and often sell out!
Sign-Out: After the final curtain call, feel free to take all the photos you like! However, please remember that every child must be officially signed out with DGPA staff before they can head home.
Saturday: The Saturday routine is similar to Friday, but please ensure that after the final performance, your camper gathers all of their belongings—including their backpacks, base layers, and script—to take home with them.
Summer camp at DGPA is a whirlwind of creativity, friendship, and faith. It is a joy to watch these students grow closer to God while they hone their skills. We can't wait to see what this talented group achieves this year!
Check out our summer camp offerings!