Addams Family, our summer Academy Youth Theatre production, recently performed this August in the midst of COVID-19 where campers, staff, and parents navigated this “new normal” with ease.
“Being in a show during COVID-19 was hard because as theatre kids we are so used to being close and social, but it’s all been worth it in order to be a part of the thing that we are all passionate about,” said Kamy Satterfield, (Grandma Addams).
With extended cleaning procedures, social distancing, and required face masks, the Academy was able to provide an outlet for campers to continue doing what they love in a safe environment.
“Doing theatre camp at the Academy is always a highlight of Ellie’s summer,” said Leslie Salazar whose daughter, Ellie, recently took part in Addams Family. “It has always given us the sense that we belong to a wonderful community that supports each other.”
“As a parent, I felt comfortable with her doing this camp,” says Leslie. “Ellie has told me what the Academy and its staff were doing to ensure their safety especially social distancing and mask-wearing while practicing. I’m glad that she was able to be a part of this production and the Academy was able to do it. It lifted up her spirit and gave us a feeling of normalcy. Thank you Academy Center of the Arts!”
“All of this just reinforced to me as a parent that the Academy truly does put the kids’ safety first,” said Amy Green, whose daughter, Natalie, recently took part in Addams Family. “I truly appreciate how the Academy staff worked so tirelessly to create an environment that protected the kids but allowed them to continue experiencing the joy that the theater brings.”
“We are so appreciative of everything the Academy Staff did to make the entire camp experience safe and fun, said Fran Crouch whose daughter, Isabella, recently took part in Addams Family. “The ‘Dream Team’ went above and beyond to not only bring theater back to the heart of our community but for many of the kids, it brought them back to life!”
As our camps and classes come to a close for Summer 2020, we are reminded now more than ever how greatly the arts impact not only our community but, our youth. We look forward to bringing more in-person and online camps and classes this Fall, beginning September 2nd.
