New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
As summer approaches and school nears its end, area youth (and parents!) have a new program to be excited about. This summer, The Studio: Where Music Comes First will launch a first-of-its-kind performing arts camp for youth. Founder of the camp, Kelci Johnson, says, “I wanted to create something different and get kids involved in the community through music.”
A performer herself, Johnson says the arts serve a number of purposes. “Every time I perform, I become a stronger person. Without music, my life could have been more troubled. Music has kept me in so many programs and involved in so many things.” Now, she hopes to provide the same opportunity for youth to find a passion and commit to something positive.
The camp aims to provide a positive social outlet for youth while offering introductions into dance, vocal, and theatre arts. What makes the camp particularly unique is that it will be filled with role models from skilled, experienced performers as its instructors to music-educated camp counselors.
Introductory lessons will be taught by a number of local performers. Aaron Gomes will provide education on the various styles of dance and Peter Carbone will introduce different genres of vocal performance. Johnson herself will facilitate a number of theatre lessons including an overview of theatre from early 1930s to modern broadway, as well as acting skills, improv lessons, and diction.
In addition, Johnson has enlisted the help of two of her role models – her two older sisters, who both perform internationally in the Thriller Live tour. Her sister Marlena will assist with vocals while oldest sister Samantha will offer a Master Class at The Studio.
While its main focus is on the performing arts, the camp will provide additional opportunities for youth to interact and give back from fundraisers, to car washes, to performing in the community. The camp will also conclude with a recital.
The camp serves youth ages 8-16 and will occur from July 1 – July 25, Monday through Friday, at The Worship Center located at 205 Middle Street, New Bedford. Cost for the camp is $50/week for four full weeks. Space is limited and deadline for registration is June 15th. Additional individual classes and lessons are also available. These do not have an age limit. Learn more and inquire at www.wheremusiccomesfirst.weebly.com
The Studio founder, Kelci Johnson: Some of Johnson’s credentials include six years of theatre experience and a wide reach of involvement in many shows. Her starring roles include Mama Eurilie from Once on This Island, March in Little Women, as well as roles in Annie, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolored Dreamcoat, and serving on the crew of The Wizard of Oz. Johnson is also an accomplished vocalist placing 2nd in the New Bedford Idol competition. She three years’ involvement in the New Bedford High School show choir, earned the honor of Best Female Soloist in two regional competitions, and Directed two shows with Starlight Productions.
