Get into Character: Theater & Playwriting

Elphaba. Miles Morales. Wednesday Addams. Why do we love these characters? What makes them tick? In this workshop we’ll dream up original characters—from cranky pop stars to talking squirrels—and figure out what makes them who they are. Students will bring their storytelling to the stage with these characters at pivotal moments, through angry rants or daring dialogues.  Together we’ll learn about script writing, stage directions, and telling a tale with dialogue and action.

Along the way, students will explore what it means to embody a character and perform their story live, from crafting simple puppets to outlandish improv games.  At the end of the week, we’ll stage a final show-stopping performance for friends and family!

About 826NYC Day Camp

In 826NYC’s day camp, we bring the joy and excitement of storytelling off the page.  Each week, we pair a fun writing theme with hands-on art and learning activities, matching performances with playwriting, comics with heroic tales, and science fiction with circuit-building.

This day camp will include a daily trip to JJ Byrne Playground for kickball, climbing, and other outdoor shenanigans. Camp hours are 9:00-3:00, Monday-Friday.

Questions? Email programs@826nyc.org or call 718-499-9884.

Who Can Participate

This day camp is for students who will be entering grades 4-6 in September 2025.

Don’t worry! 826NYC’s classes for grades 1-12 will return in September 2025.

What to Bring

Please ensure your child brings the following items to camp each day:

• A refillable water bottle
• Lunch and a healthy snack
• Sunscreen and any other items your child needs to comfortably spend time outdoors

826NYC will provide notebooks, pens, art supplies, and all other materials needed for participation in camp activities.

Cost

826NYC is committed to keeping our programs available to the young writers who need our support most. You can choose between the following fee options for summer camps:

• Full price: $600 per week, with a $100 discount if you sign up for multiple weeks
• Partial scholarship: $300 per week
• Full scholarship: Free, with a $25 deposit that won’t be charged if your child attends.

We invite families to select the the fee option that works best for them. No additional scholarship application is required.