Meet the Staff: Summer Arts Camp

By Staff Writer

Youth Arts at J Camps is where campers build confidence, creativity, friendships, and unforgettable summer memories — all while doing what they love.

This summer, our campers will be guided by an incredible team of directors and arts educators who are passionate about creating a fun, welcoming, and supportive environment both on and off the stage.

We asked three members of our Arts Camp team the same three questions — here’s what they had to say.

Emily Plovan, Assistant Director of Arts Education:
“I’m most excited to see all of our campers — new and returning! They are the reason this program has endured the way it has, and I can’t wait to see how much they learn and grow this summer. I hope campers walk away with a sense of pride in all that they accomplish and feel that they gained a deeper understanding of themselves.”

Symphony Hall, Shrek Jr. Show Director:
“I’m most excited about working in a new environment where I’m meeting new team members and new children alike. I want campers to walk away with confidence in themselves, but also confidence in the fact that they DO THEATRE! I would love for them to leave with super cool memories of the fun they had and the art they created.”

Jennifer L. Gusso,  Mary Poppins Jr. Show Director:
“Everyone I’ve met so far with J Camps has been so passionate about what they do and the campers. I can’t wait to experience that energy and community for myself this summer. I hope campers feel safe, welcome, and part of that community — and that they leave knowing how important it is to build community everywhere they go.”

Emily:
“Theatre offers such a wide range of skills that can be applied to any area of life. Actors develop emotional understanding, public speaking skills, and most of all, theatre teaches kids how to be comfortable in their own skin and show up as their authentic selves.”

Symphony:
“I believe theatre gives children the opportunity to open their imagination to worlds that sometimes other activities cannot foster. It also allows them to become one ensemble and community working toward the same thing.”

Jennifer:
“There really isn’t a right or wrong way to do theatre. We work together as a community to define our goals and support one another in reaching them. Theatre teaches communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking all at once. Things will go wrong — they always do — but theatre teaches students how to adapt together, trust their instincts, listen to others, and create something meaningful as a team.”

Emily: “Joyful.”

Symphony: “Exhilarating!”

Jennifer: “Community.”

Whether your child is brand new to theatre or already loves performing, J Camps Arts & Theatre Camp is a place to create, connect, grow, and have fun all summer long.

🎭 Learn more about J Camps Arts & Theatre programs and explore this summer’s offerings at: jcampsbaltimore.org/