Park Theater goes to the dogs

Following a successful week of "Pure Imagination" in June, session two of the 2026 Summer Theater Camps held by Warren Arts and the Park Theater is taking on a Disney classic.

The theater day camp, designed for children in 1st through 12th grades, offers an introduction to the world of performing arts to newcomers and serves as an opportunity for experienced actors to hone their craft.

Session one, held June 8-12, focused on teaching music, choreography, theater etiquette, stage and props all in preparation for a free show held on the final day of camp for family, friends and the public. On Friday, June 12, the campers presented "Pure Imagination: A Broadway Junior Revue" of hit songs from musicals including "Seussical," "Shrek the Musical," "Beauty and the Beast," "Frozen" and more.

On Monday, July 20, session two of theater camp began in preparation for "101 Dalmatians KIDS." Camp runs each day at the Park Theater from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. as organizers and campers work to present a free public performance for family and friends Friday, July 24 at 5 p.m. at the historic theater. Based on the classic Disney film, "101 Dalmations KIDS" features a memorable score and many lovable (and not-so-lovable) characters.

"The kids are working really hard to pull together this 30-minute show in just one week," Camp Director Kennette Dixon said. "We've had a lot of first timers as well as a lot of returners who have been in our shows before. This week is focused on teaching them about theater – not only learning the show but all aspects including crafts, behind-the-scenes work and performing."

Park Theater management is proud to partner with Warren Arts to present the annual camps and hope it fosters a love of theater which children will carry with them long after camp is over.

“We want to thank Warren Arts for the hard work their board and volunteers put into these theater camps," Park Theater Manager Joe Harvey said. "We enjoy partnering with them and seeing them teach and mentor these kids all week long. We think it’s very important to not just mentor the kids who have acting and singing aspirations, but to also work with the kids who want to work backstage on productions with tech, props, costumes and general theater etiquette. As with our June camp, we’ve adjusted the times and performance date this year to work a little better for everyone’s schedule. Parents, campers and volunteers have all enjoyed those changes. We want to thank Main Street Media for being a sponsor of this camp and supporting current and future arts in Warren County." 

The week of hard work will be on display for all to see Friday, July 24 at 5 p.m. at the Park Theater. Admission is free and doors will open at approximately 4:30 p.m.