The NMU Wildcat Performing Arts Academy offers comprehensive training, mentorship, and exposure in various arts disciplines such as dance, acting, vocal training, and theatre production. By providing a nurturing environment for artistic development, we aim to equip students with the skills and confidence necessary for success in the performing arts and beyond.
K–4th Grade Summer Theatre Camps
Spark your child's imagination this summer with WPAA's themed Theatre Camps for students entering Kindergarten through 4th grade! Each week, campers will explore the exciting world of theatre through acting, singing, movement, improvisation, creative games, and hands-on activities while working together to prepare a short performance for family and friends.
Throughout the week, campers will build confidence and creativity as they learn theatre fundamentals including voice projection, character development, stage directions, choreography, and teamwork. They'll also have opportunities to explore the behind-the-scenes side of theatre through costume renderings, simple props, and production crafts.
Every camp follows the rehearsal process from first script read-through to dress rehearsal, culminating in a live performance in NMU's Black Box Theatre each Friday. Whether your child is brand new to theatre or already loves the stage, our camps provide a welcoming, supportive environment where every young performer can learn, grow, and have fun.
2026 Camp Themes
- Space Travel: July 20–24
- Imagination Explorers: July 27–31
- Forest Adventure: August 3–7
- A Week at Sea: August 10–14
Camp Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–12:30 PM
Tuition: $125 per camper, per week
Location: 106 McClintock & NMU's Black Box Theatre
Join us this summer for a week of creativity, collaboration, and theatrical adventure!
WPAA Programming offered throughout the year:
- Wildcat Performing Arts Academy Intensive workshops and classes geared toward middle and high school students*
- These opportunities will have varying time commitments, from an hour long class to classes spanning a full day or full weekends as well as week-long intensive experiences.
- NMU TD Kids Pre-performance workshops geared toward youth ages 12 and younger
- An opportunity to engage with the company prior to the show, immersing yourself in the world of theater, dance, and music through interactive activities!
- Education Expeditions (School Outreach/Run-Outs)
- WPAA comes to your community: school, library, community center, theatre, find a space for us to join you!
- Doing a performance of a dance or theatre work with our students
- Providing 2-6 workshops encompassing theatre arts: dance, movement, voice, acting, production and more!
- Workshops can host up to 30 students per classroom/space
- WPAA comes to your community: school, library, community center, theatre, find a space for us to join you!
- Talk-back opportunities after select NMU Theatre and Dance productions
- Enjoy an after performance Q&A with the company and get to know the ins and outs of what went into a production!
Questions?
Email us at wpaa@nmu.edu