School of Performing Arts

Calling all young astronauts and aspiring stars! During this camp, we'll journey through the cosmos, singing and dancing our way across the universe. We'll explore the wonders of space with catchy tunes like "Rocket Man," soar to new heights with "Fly Me to the Moon," and discover the secrets of the universe with the "Big Bang Theory Theme." Through imaginative play and creative movement, we'll bring these stellar songs to life. Join us for a stellar week of theatrical fun as we blast off to musical theatre heaven!

Get ready to conjure up some theatrical magic! In this camp, we'll be casting spells of song and dance, exploring the world of magic through music and movement. We'll be waving our wands to "Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo," discovering the power of a "Spoonful of Sugar," and believing in the "Magic" all around us. Through imaginative play, creative movement, and these enchanting tunes, we'll bring the world of magic to life. All you need is a sprinkle of imagination and a love for all things magical! Join us for a week of wonder and fun as we create a truly spellbinding theatrical experience!

In this class, attendees will work on connecting personally to texts that they will present, which include monologues, scenes, and original work. Instructor Robert Lee will meet the attendees where they are and help them clear what is blocking them from deeper connections in their performance. It is recommended that attendees have some level of acting experience or education.

This class is geared toward challenging students with a background in tap while providing a creative/musical/physical outlet for all students.

This class is for true beginners of tap and will focus on creating a foundation for understanding rhythms and building the physical technique of basic tap steps.

This class is for true beginners of tap and will focus on creating a foundation for understanding rhythms and building the physical technique of basic tap steps.

For the adult actor of any level looking to get back into class and keep their skills sharp and/or gain experience and confidence. Focus will be on meeting the individual actor at the skill level they are and building skills from that point.

This class is for true beginners of tap and will focus on creating a foundation for understanding rhythms and building the physical technique of basic tap steps.

This class is geared toward challenging students with a background in tap while providing a creative/musical/physical outlet for all students.

This class is geared toward challenging students with a background in tap while providing a creative/musical/physical outlet for all students.

Young artists are invited on a global adventure, exploring diverse animal habitats like the jungle, desert, and ocean each week. Through playful games, improvisation, and character creation, students will transform into monkeys, camels, dolphins, and more, developing fundamental acting skills such as physical expression, vocal exploration, and storytelling, all while learning about the fascinating animal kingdom.

Calling all 7-9 year old heroes! Step into a world inspired by the graphic novel Bea Wolf by Zach Weinersmith, where imagination reigns supreme and fun knows no bounds! In the enchanted land of Treeheart, a brave child Monarch needs your help to protect the tree house from the dreaded Mr. Grindle, whose touch can turn the joy of childhood into the seriousness of adulthood. You'll act out exciting scenes, becoming Bea Wolf and other heroic characters, and create magical worlds by designing sets and props that bring Treeheart to life. Along the way, you'll learn theatre skills, from acting to storytelling, discovering the magic of theatre. Join us for an unforgettable journey where you'll make new friends, unleash your creativity, and become a hero! This one-week mini-intensive for actors will culminate in a performance on August 16th at 10AM.

This class is for true beginners of tap and will focus on creating a foundation for understanding rhythms and building the physical technique of basic tap steps.

This class is for true beginners of tap and will focus on creating a foundation for understanding rhythms and building the physical technique of basic tap steps.

This service is provided week-to-week for registered campers who need to be dropped off earlier than the 9:00 am camp start time. Extended Care is $40/week.

This service is provided week-to-week for registered campers in our K-2 camps who need to be picked up later than the 12:00 camp end time. Students are welcome to bring their own lunch to eat during this time.

This service is provided week-to-week for registered campers who need to be picked up later than the 3:00 camp end time. Extended Care PM is $80/week.

The gods, goddesses, heroes, and myths of ancient Greece have influenced the theatre world for millennia. The tales of Zeus, Hera, Hermes, Hades, Perseus, Orpheus, and Hercules have been passed down and inspiring many great plays and musicals for generations. This camp offers an opportunity to explore our theatrical roots through the tales and stories of Greek mythology.

Our junior intensive (open to grades 3-8) this summer is Godspell Jr. Get a chance to explore the music and dancing of this popular musical (and get a jump start on prepping for auditions) through this camp. “Day by Day”, “All for the Best”, and “Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord” are some of the many songs to be explored from this amazing show adapted from the famous broadway musical from 1976.

From the Golden Age (1937-1942) to the Silver Age (1950-1959), this camp will explore the Disney films that defined the genre. From Snow White to Sleeping Beauty, classic Disney films have been a part of everyone’s childhood for generations. Music from films such as Pinocchio, Alice in Wonderland, and Cinderella will provide students with a fun journey through the early years of Disney animation.

Every professional has a toolkit, some full of literal tools, others full of figurative ones. Actors use a number of tools in their craft - how to prep for an audition, how to get the most out of a rehearsal, how to choose the best material for you, creating and growing your actor portfolio, how to break down a scene, and so on. This camp will explore the many tools an actor stores in their toolbox and how to sharpen your skills in their use.

All the best stories begin with “Once upon a time . . .” and fairy tales have been an integral part of storytelling in cultures all around the world for centuries. This camp will explore the unique and fantastical characters and stories that fairy tales have brought to our lives.

Our junior intensive (grades 3-8) this summer is Godspell Jr. Get a chance to explore the music and dancing of this popular musical (and get a jump start on prepping for auditions) through this camp. “Day by Day”, “All for the Best”, and “Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord” are some of the many songs to be explored from this amazing show adapted from the famous broadway musical from 1976.

Disney has given us so many wonderful musicals over the decades. This camp will explore the heart warming and memorable films from the Disney Renaissance (1989-1999). The movies that defined a generation - The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, and more - offer many musical numbers to dance and sing to!

From Rock of Ages and Mamma Mia to Head Over Heels and Moulin Rouge, the jukebox musical has gained popularity in the last few years. Whether you’re rocking out to the hair bands of the 80s or dancing to the hit songs of ABBA, jukebox musicals have a lot of the music and songs that we love, presented in new imaginative ways, and this camp will explore the songs and dances from many of our favorites.

As actors, we use our bodies and our voices in lots of different ways to tell stories onstage. In this camp, come explore how to use your instrument like a professional as we work on different types of movement, different uses of the voice, mindfulness and body awareness, and how to use these new tools in the creation of a character!

Ever wanted to create your own show from scratch? This camp will utilize storytelling, improvisation, and theatrical exploration to create a show from the ground up. From establishing the plot to developing characters, creating a play can be a fun yet challenging experience for young artists to explore and collaborate together!

Our senior intensive (grades 8-12) this summer is Mean Girls: High School Version. Get a chance to explore the music and dancing of this popular musical (and get a jump start on prepping for auditions) through this camp.

The Cat in the Hat, the Grinch, the Lorax, the Sneetches, Horton the Elephant, Yertle the Turtle, Sam I Am. Dr. Seuss and his beloved characters have been an influence in literature, film, and theatre for decades. This camp will explore the characters and themes of Dr. Seuss’s work through the art of theatre and storytelling.

Alan Menken has brought us many popular musicals including Little Shop of Horrors, Newsies, Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Hercules, and many more. This camp will explore the works of Alan Menken through song and dance. Whether it’s “Under the Sea”, “I See the Light”, “Seize the Day”, or “Suddenly Seymour”, there will be a wide variety of favorites to choose from!

Don Bluth, American filmmaker and animator, brought us many classics, such as An American Tale, Thumbelina, Anastasia, and All Dogs Go to Heaven. In this camp, students will explore the memorable musical numbers of several of Don Bluth’s films, like “Somewhere Out There” and “Once Upon a December”.

Some of the best stories are told through theatre! Come traverse creative and fantastic worlds as they come to life in this fun camp session where students will get to explore characters and tales from various storybooks.

Are you sly like a fox or wise like an owl? Join us for a creative adventure where you'll bring classic folk tales to life by making fun animal mask-making and crafty design! Once your creations are ready, we’ll use them to star in (easy) reader’s theater-style performances of timeless folk tales. It’s the perfect way to explore stories, express your creativity, and have a blast!

In this high-energy workshop, you'll dive into the world of acting through the power of movement! This workshop is all about using your body to tell compelling stories, express deep emotions, and bring characters to life—without saying a word. With a strong focus on ensemble work, you'll collaborate with your fellow actors through exciting games, acting challenges, and unique movement exercises that help you tap into your character’s physicality. Learn how to make every gesture count, build cohesion in an ensemble, and create powerful group performances. This exploration of physical storytelling will be particularly valuable for those interested in the movement-driven characters of our upcoming youth production in October. Get ready to enhance your acting skills and discover how movement can bring your performances to the next level! All you need is your energy and a passion for acting.

This class will cover dance basics in a variety of styles, including jazz, ballet, tap, and musical theatre. Also covered will be tips and tricks for learning choreography during a show or an audition.

Ready to defy gravity? This summer, explore the magic of Oz at this Wicked-themed camp! We’ll dive into the captivating music of Wicked. We'll explore Elphaba and Glinda's story through iconic songs like "Defying Gravity" and "Popular," focusing on vocals, character, and stage presence. You'll develop your performance skills and connect with this extraordinary show. Join us for an unforgettable week exploring the magic and music of Wicked!

For older students with an interest in original, collaborative theatre, this intensive focuses on creating a student-developed script. The first week is dedicated to writing and development, while the second week focuses on rehearsal and performance. This is an opportunity to experiment, collaborate, and bring a unique production to life.

Do you dream in vibrant colors and think outside the box? Then step into the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss's Diffendoofer Day! This musical mini-intensive is a whirlwind of creativity, where you'll bring the zany characters and topsy-turvy world of Diffendoofer School to life! Imagine Miss Bonkers' boundless energy, the quirky lessons, and the challenge of saving their unique school from the dreary Flobber Town takeover. You'll sing, dance, and act, all while exploring the importance of individuality and the joy of learning!

Come join us as we explore our feelings through movement and facial expressions! With playful scripts and creative activities, we’ll work together to tell stories, discover the magic of emotions, and build confidence in expressing ourselves. It's a fantastic way to let your imagination soar and have fun while learning the art of performance!

This whimsical stage adaptation of several Dr. Seuss stories is framed by four friends reflecting on life's lessons. Through tales of loyalty, a journey to empathy, the fight for equality, and our own self-discovery, this play explores themes of friendship, responsibility, social justice, and finding one's own path. Using Seussian language and imagery, the ensemble cast brings these classic stories to life, delivering heartwarming messages about growing up and the wisdom found in Dr. Seuss's beloved works. Written by Denise Ruemping. This one-week mini-intensive for actors will culminate in a performance on June 14th at 10AM.

Our Extended Care program offers additional supervision for students who need to be dropped off early or picked up late during our summer theatre programs. This service provides a safe and supportive environment for your child outside of scheduled program hours. Please note that Extended Care is only for supervision. It does not include any structured programming or activities and is not eligible for scholarship support. (Cost: $10/hour)

Our Extended Care program offers additional supervision for students who need to be dropped off early or picked up late during our summer theatre programs. This service provides a safe and supportive environment for your child outside of scheduled program hours. Please note that Extended Care is only for supervision. It does not include any structured programming or activities and is not eligible for scholarship support.

Get ready to flip the script on your favorite fairy tales! We'll take classic fairy tales and give them a hilarious, dramatic, and totally unexpected twist. Imagine Little Red Riding Hood as a cunning hired assassin, Goldilocks as a stealthy cat burglar, or the Three Little Pigs as the real villains of the story! Through improvisation, character development, and scene work, you'll explore these reimagined worlds, creating your own unique versions of beloved stories. All you need is a love for storytelling and a wild imagination. Prepare for a week of theatrical mayhem as we turn fairy tales on their heads and unleash your creativity!

Step into the world of Fairytale Theater, where we’ll bring your favorite storybook characters to life! In this fun camp, you’ll learn how to use a script to memorize lines, develop your character, and tell an exciting, magical story. Let your creativity shine as we prepare for a final showcase that’s sure to delight!

Set sail on an unforgettable adventure to Motunui! In this high-energy camp, you’ll dive into the world of Moana and Moana 2, learning to sing iconic songs like “How Far I’ll Go” and dance to the rhythm of the ocean. From mastering Moana’s powerful vocals to channeling the magic of the sea in every move, this camp is all about bringing the music and movement of these beloved films to life.

This class is geared toward challenging students with a background in tap while providing a creative/musical/physical outlet for all students.

This class is geared toward challenging students with a background in tap while providing a creative/musical/physical outlet for all students.

This class offers a lively and supportive environment to explore the basics of improvisational theater. Through engaging exercises and games, students will enhance their spontaneity, creativity, and collaboration skills. Whether you're an aspiring actor or just looking to boost your confidence and quick thinking, this class provides a fun and dynamic foundation in the art of improv, tailored specifically for middle and high schoolers.

Through interactive games and creative acting exercises inspired by Chris Van Allsburg's Jumanji, students will explore the book's adventurous world. Using its vivid scenes and wild imagination, they'll embody the characters and navigate the jungle's unpredictable challenges. Collaborative games, improvisation, and imaginative role-playing will strengthen acting skills, boost creativity, and bring the thrilling characters and environment of Jumanji to life!

This all-singing, all-dancing Tony Award-winning musical spectacular ran on Broadway for 18 years. Set amongst a larger-than-life junkyard playground, the Jellicle Cats come out to play on one special night of the year. They tell their stories and dance the night away in this iconic mega-musical. This intensive is for children entering grades 3-8. The Junior Intensive is currently SOLD OUT. Email boxoffice@duluthplayhouse.org to join the waitlist.

Godspell, the beloved classic from Stephen Schwartz, the Grammy and Academy Award-winning composer of Wicked, retells the greatest story ever told. Join the celebration of kindness, tolerance, and friendship. Our summer intensive programs combine a summer camp experience with the experience of developing a fully-realized production. Each intensive starts with an audition. After the show is cast, students will participate in rehearsals, tech rehearsals, and a weekend of public performances. During the week, Monday through Friday, students will rehearse from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm (with a break for lunch) and end their experience with five public performances on the NorShor stage! During rehearsals, students will focus on building skills in performance, acting, singing, dancing, etc., combining theatre education with production development.

Embark on a musical journey to Arendelle in this engaging class exploring the captivating music of Frozen and its Broadway adaptation. Through singing iconic songs, analyzing characters, and understanding storytelling through music, students will delve into the magic behind the show. This class focuses on vocal exploration, creative expression, and learning fundamental musical theatre skills in a fun, collaborative environment, perfect for young enthusiasts who love the world of Frozen.

Unleash your inner animal at our “wild” musical theatre camp! We'll explore the animal kingdom through song and dance, featuring hits from shows like The Lion King, Honk!, The Jungle Book, Madagascar, and The Aristocats. Imagine singing "Hakuna Matata" with a pride of lions, strutting as a cool cat, or waddling through "A Poultry Tale." Our instructors will guide you through vocal techniques, choreography, and acting while exploring iconic animal characters. Join our jungle jamboree – it's going to be a roaring good time!

Experience the magic of Matilda the Musical come to life! This musical mini-intensive will culminate in a vibrant showcase of select scenes and songs from this beloved production. Join us for a journey into the whimsical world of Matilda Wormwood, a brilliant young girl with a vivid imagination and extraordinary powers. You’ll bring to life the quirky characters, memorable songs, and heartwarming story of Roald Dahl’s Matilda, from the tyrannical Miss Trunchbull to the kind and supportive Miss Honey. Our young artists will develop their singing, acting, and dancing skills while preparing for this exciting performance!

Join us for a week-long camp where we will explore the basics of acting and character creation through lessons inspired by Amanda Noll’s I Need My Monster series. From acting techniques to storytelling, discover the magic of theatre in a fun and engaging way. Join us for a week of laughter, creativity, and monster-sized fun!

Get ready to jump, jive, and boogie! This high-energy camp is all about expressing ourselves through music and movement. We'll be dancing our hearts out to tunes like "Physical," feeling "Happy," grooving to "September," and walking on sunshine with Katrina & the Waves. Through creative movement, playful exercises, and imaginative exploration, we'll bring these upbeat songs to life. Bring a love for moving, grooving, and having fun, and join us for a week of non-stop action as we dance our way through a musical theatre adventure!

Calling all aspiring sleuths and drama detectives! Join us for a week of theatrical intrigue where we'll explore the world of famous detectives like Sherlock Holmes, Miss Marple, Nancy Drew, Hercule Poirot, and more, sharpening our observation skills, learning the art of interrogation, and developing captivating characters. We'll unravel clues, create our own detectives and villains, and hone our skills through exciting mystery scenarios. Get ready to crack the case!

The Spring Acting Drop-In Sessions are a high-energy, interactive theater experience. Participants will play a variety of theater games that promote confidence, team work, and having fun! Two sessions are available.

The Spring Acting Drop-In Sessions are a high-energy, interactive theater experience. Participants will play a variety of theater games that promote confidence, team work, and having fun! Two sessions are available.

Stage Play Acting Classes are an opportunity for neurodivergent children ages 5-10 years old to learn about theater. Children participate in acting exercises that work on social skills, use nonverbal information, and understand theater vocabulary. We explore emotions through vocal intonation, body language, and facial expression in improvisational and scripted skits. This is an ongoing collaboration between Minnesota Masonic Children’s Clinic and the Duluth Playhouse. It is our aim to utilize our experience working with autism, ADHD, and children with social learning differences and partner with parents to give children in our class a positive experience with acting and collaborating with others.

This "fetch" musical from book writer Tina Fey (30 Rock) is packed with keen wit, a fun pop score, and all your favorite moments from the film. Our summer intensive programs combine a summer camp experience with the experience of developing a fully-realized production. Each intensive starts with an audition. After the show is cast, students will participate in rehearsals, tech rehearsals, and a weekend of public performances. During the week, Monday through Friday, students will rehearse from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm (with a break for lunch) and end their experience with five public performances on the NorShor stage! During rehearsals, students will focus on building skills in performance, acting, singing, dancing, etc., combining theatre education with production development.

Rock out to hits from Night Ranger, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, and other face-melting guitar anthems of the 1980s in this epic Broadway musical! Introduce your kids to the songs you know and love with this fun-filled story of romance, fame, and always believin'! This intensive is for teens entering grade 8 to spring 2025 HS graduates. The Teen Intensive is SOLD OUT. Email boxoffice@duluthplayhouse.org to join the waitlist.

Have you ever been afraid of the dark or worried that you’ll do something embarrassing? Well, these lovable, silly monsters are here to help! With their dancing, singing, and HUGE appetites for fears, they'll gobble up your worries and turn them into laughter and fun. Join the monsters as they show you how to shake off anxiety and embrace every challenge with a smile. Ready to conquer your worries? These hungry monsters are waiting for you! Adapted from the children’s book by Rosie Greening and Lara Ede. This two-week musical theatre mini-intensive will culminate in a performance on June 28th at 10AM.

Get ready for a hilariously twisted tale with The Wizard of Odd! This fractured story reimagines the classic story of Oz with a mischievous twist. Join us as the Scarecrow seeks a cure for an uncontrollable itch, the Tin Man grapples with a new music app, and the Lion yearns for a name more dignified than "Cowardly." Toto is no ordinary dog, and the Wizard and Wicked Witch are surprisingly...childish! Expect plenty of laughter as the characters defy expectations and meta-humor abounds. Written by Denise Ruemping. This one-week mini-intensive for actors will culminate in a performance on July 12th at 1PM.

In this class, students will bring the vibrant world of the Trolls movies to life! We'll focus on building confidence and teamwork while fostering a love for music and storytelling. Through fun, interactive activities, children will learn basic musical theatre skills in a supportive and joyful environment, all inspired by the colorful and catchy tunes of Poppy, Branch, and their friends.

The Spring Acting Drop-In Sessions are a high-energy, interactive theater experience. Participants will play a variety of theater games that promote confidence, team work, and having fun! Multiple sessions are available. Sign up for one, two, or all three!

The Spring Acting Drop-In Sessions are a high-energy, interactive theater experience. Participants will play a variety of theater games that promote confidence, team work, and having fun! Multiple sessions are available. Sign up for one, two, or all three!