Arts Academy

ACT, SING, DANCE

Grades 4-8
June 29–July 10*  (WAITLIST)
(*No camp on July 3)
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Director: Mr. Jason Ford, Albany Academy Music and Theatre faculty
Fee: $875

Bring your imagination, your voice, and your courage to create something extraordinary this summer in our two‑week Musical Theatre Camp: Matilda! Designed for performers in grades 4–8, this immersive camp blends acting, singing, and dancing with the joy of collaborative storytelling as we rehearse and perform scenes and musical numbers inspired by the beloved Broadway and West End production.

Over the two weeks, students will dive into character development, vocal technique, ensemble work, choreography, and stagecraft as they bring the world of Matilda to life. Guided by experienced directors and teaching artists, campers will rehearse daily, explore themes of bravery, creativity, and friendship, and develop the confidence that comes from performing on stage. Students will also learn about costuming, props, backstage roles, and the teamwork that makes every production a success.

The program culminates in a showcase performance for families and friends—a celebration of the artistry, hard work, and imagination that campers pour into each rehearsal.No prior theatre experience is required. New performers and seasoned actors alike will find a welcoming  community, meaningful roles, and unforgettable moments in the spotlight.

*NEW* This Year: Advance Auditions!

Advance auditions will be held on Tuesday, June 16, from 4:30–8:00 PM, with callbacks immediately following from 7:30–8:30 PM. Only students who are selected for callbacks will be asked to remain during that time. They include individual singing auditions, followed by a group dance audition. This will be a combined audition for both Matilda and Mean Girls, and students only need to audition once. 

Auditions - Tuesday, 6/16
4:30 - 6:30 - Solo Singing Auditions
6:30 - 7:00 - Group Dance Audition
7:00 - 8:00 - Callbacks (only those who are needed)

About the Director

Jason Ford is a dynamic and versatile theatre educator who brings exceptional energy and expertise to Albany Academy’s summer and school‑year performing arts programs. For more than five years, he has been a central leader in our musical theater summer offerings, known for his creativity, professionalism, and ability to inspire young performers. Jason is also the owner and operator of Debuts Theater in Schenectady, NY, where he directs and produces high‑quality youth productions year‑round. In addition to his summer work, he serves as a dedicated Lower School teacher at Albany Academy, leads the after‑school enrichment theater program, and has directed the Upper School musical productions. His deep experience across age groups and his passion for helping students grow make him an invaluable part of our Academy Summer arts team.

About the Musical Director

Kristine Fanion is excited to be back at Albany Academy for a second summer & show! She music directed and vocal coached Legally Blonde Jr. last summer, and has recently music directed “Into The Woods,” “You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown,” and “Pippin.” Kristine teaches Middle School General Music/Chorus in Burnt Hills and has directed music for several shows at Debuts Theater Co.! She is actively working on music directing “Something Rotten Jr.” for her Middle School’s drama club.
 

Grades 5–8
July 20–July 24
9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Instructor: Eve Whelchel, Albany Academy Dance Teacher
Fee: $245

This one-week, half-day summer camp introduces dancers to the foundations of classical ballet in a fun and supportive environment. Each day, students will participate in a structured ballet class focused on fundamental technique, including basic vocabulary, proper alignment, and an age-appropriate exploration of ballet history. Classes are designed to build confidence, musicality, and a strong understanding of classical movement. In the second portion of each day, dancers will engage in creative exploration, bringing their technique to life through choreography inspired by iconic bird-themed ballets such as Swan Lake, The Bluebird, and The Firebird. 

The week will culminate in an informal in-studio showing where dancers can share what they have learned with family and friends. Dancers are encouraged to wear comfortable athletic clothing that allows for freedom of movement, along with ballet shoes. This camp invites dancers to experience the beauty, discipline, and storytelling of classical ballet.

Pairing Suggestion
We suggest taking this class along with the afternoon visual arts class, Birds of a Feather: Sculpture Studio, which continues the Birds of a Feather theme. In this companion program, students will create sculptural birds using papier-mâché, clay, and a variety of artistic techniques. Together, the two classes offer a full-day immersive experience that blends movement, storytelling, and hands-on creativity.

About the Instructor

Mrs. Eve D. Whelchel holds an M.F.A. in Dance and Choreography from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. She co-owned and served as Artistic Director of the Saratoga City Ballet School and Company for eleven seasons, with choreography supported by the New York State Council on the Arts and the Target Foundation. A former member of the Ellen Sinopoli Dance Company, Mrs. Whelchel has published in the Journal of Dance Education, presented at the National Dance Education Organization’s Summit, and joined the Albany Academy Arts Department in 2017, where she received the Excellence in Teaching Award. Over the span of her career, she has served as a teaching artist, bringing dance to public and private schools as well as universities across the Capital Region. She is proud to continue mentoring students of all ages, guiding them toward artistic excellence and personal growth.

ACT, SING, DANCE

Grades 8-12
July 20–July 31 (Auditions June 16)
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Director: Mr. Matthew Streifert, Albany Academy Music and Theatre faculty
Fee: $970

Step into the world of high‑school drama, big personalities, and unforgettable musical moments in our two‑week Mean Girls musical theatre intensive. Designed specifically for performers in grades 8–12, this advanced program offers a deeper, more challenging theatre experience, perfect for students ready to take their skills to the next level in a supportive, artistically driven environment.

Under the direction of Mr. Streifert, who brings over 15 years of summer musical theatre leadership, campers will dive into the performance process with a professional mindset. Through daily workshops and rehearsals, students will strengthen their technique in vocal performance, advanced choreography, character work, comedic timing, ensemble storytelling, and scene study, all while exploring themes of identity, friendship, confidence, and what it means to stay true to yourself.

Throughout the two weeks, students will also gain insight into the behind‑the‑scenes elements that elevate a production, from staging and prop work to costume concepts and ensemble dynamics. With Mr. Streifert’s thoughtful direction and mentorship, performers will be challenged, celebrated, and encouraged to grow as artists.

The program culminates in a final showcase performance for families and friends, an exciting and empowering capstone to an intensive two‑week journey. For young performers hoping to push their skills, build community, and shine onstage, Mean Girls is the ultimate summer theatre experience.

*NEW* This Year: Advance Auditions!

Advance auditions will be held on Tuesday, June 16, from 4:30–8:00 PM, with callbacks immediately following from 7:30–8:30 PM. Only students who are selected for callbacks will be asked to remain during that time. They include individual singing auditions, followed by a group dance audition. This will be a combined audition for both Matilda and Mean Girls, and students only need to audition once. 

Auditions - Tuesday, 6/16
4:30 - 6:30 - Solo Singing Auditions
6:30 - 7:00 - Group Dance Audition
7:00 - 8:00 - Callbacks (only those who are needed)

About the Director

Matthew Streifert is a music and theatre teacher with a long-standing connection to Albany Academy’s summer programs. For more than 16 years, he has led our summer musical theatre offerings, building a reputation for exceptional instruction, creativity, and steady leadership.

Matthew is highly accomplished in both performance and directing and brings a joyful, student-centered approach to every rehearsal and class. Families consistently praise his ability to connect with children of all ages, nurture confidence, and help each performer shine on and off the stage.
In addition to his work with Academy Summer, Matthew teaches private voice lessons through his own studio, supporting young performers as they develop healthy vocal technique and expressive artistry. His deep experience and genuine passion for musical theatre make him a cornerstone of our Academy Summer arts programming.

Grades 4–8
August 10-14
9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Instructor: Ms. Macy McCann 
Fee: $245

This high‑energy musical theatre dance workshop introduces rising Grades 4–8 students to the foundations of stage movement and performance. Designed for both beginners and experienced young performers, this program builds confidence, coordination, and choreography skills in a fun, supportive environment.

Students explore Broadway‑style movement, learn to express character through dance, and practice the essentials of stage presence. Through technique classes and age‑appropriate choreography, dancers develop timing, musicality, and ensemble skills while discovering how movement can tell a story on stage. 

This program is perfect for:

• Musical theatre kids gaining confidence
• New dancers learning foundational technique
• Young performers who want to improve choreography pickup
• Experienced dancers looking to refine style and expression

About the Instructor

This program is led by a working professional dancer and graduate of the Boston Conservatory’s BFA Dance Performance program. Throughout her career, she has performed in numerous musical theatre productions and danced on the Boston Conservatory stage in a wide range of repertory works. Her experience as both a performer and teaching artist brings authenticity, expertise, and inspiration to young dancers developing their craft.  

Grades 8-12
August 10-14
1-4 p.m.
Instructor: Ms. Macy McCann 
Fee: $245

This advanced, fast‑paced workshop is tailored for rising Grades 8–12 students ready to elevate their performance and dance technique. Whether preparing for auditions, school productions, competition seasons, or musical theatre roles, participants strengthen the core skills needed to succeed on stage.

Students dive deeper into Broadway jazz, contemporary musical theatre styles, and complex choreography. The program emphasizes choreography retention, performance quality, storytelling, precision, and stylistic versatility. Teens learn to connect movement with character work, command the stage, and deliver polished, expressive performances.

This program is perfect for:

• Musical theatre students preparing for auditions
• Dancers and competition students building storytelling skills
• High school actors who want stronger dance technique
• Any performer looking to master choreography and stage presence

About the Instructor

This program is led by a working professional dancer and graduate of the Boston Conservatory’s BFA Dance Performance program. Throughout her career, she has performed in numerous musical theatre productions and danced on the Boston Conservatory stage in a wide range of repertory works. Her experience as both a performer and teaching artist brings authenticity, expertise, and inspiration to young dancers developing their craft.  

Grades 9–12
June 29-July 10
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Teacher: Ms. Amanda Stickney, Albany Academy faculty
Fee: $875
Materials Fee: $50

This two‑week, full‑day ceramics intensive invites young artists to immerse themselves in the sculptural possibilities of clay. Working in a professional studio environment, students will experience the complete ceramic process, from developing sculptural ideas to forming, refining, glazing, and firing their finished work. Whether you’re new to ceramics or looking to deepen your studio practice, this intensive meets artists where they are and helps them advance their craft through hands‑on exploration and thoughtful guidance.
Throughout the course, students will learn and practice foundational and intermediate hand‑building techniques, including pinch, coil, and slab construction, as well as carving, texturing, and surface design. As they work, artists gain a deeper understanding of how clay responds to touch, pressure, water, and time, building confidence and a strong sense of craftsmanship.

Participants will have opportunities to experiment, problem‑solve, and develop personal sculptural concepts. Daily studio time may include demonstrations, guided practice, independent work sessions, and informal critiques that encourage students to grow their artistic voice. Each student will complete sculptural pieces suitable for display, personal enjoyment, or future portfolio use.
At the end of the session, students will glaze their work before it is fired in a professional kiln. Finished pieces will be available for pick‑up once the final firing is complete.

About the Educator

Ms. Stickney is a member of the Albany Academy faculty, where she serves as a substitute teacher and works in the Extended Day program. She holds a degree in Ceramics from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and brings a strong background in the visual arts to her work with students. Ms. Stickney spent 10 years at The Albany Institute of History & Art, where she deepened her appreciation for artistic practice and education. This will be her first summer with Academy Summer, and she is excited to share her passion for ceramics and sculpture with young artists. Outside the classroom, she enjoys throwing bowls, creating sculptures, and spending time with her cat.

Grades 7-12
July 20-July 24
9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Teacher: Mr. David Waldin
Fee: $245
Materials Fee: $25

A three‑hour studio experience focused on observation‑driven drawing inspired by the natural world.

In this immersive illustration intensive, students in grades 7–12 explore the art of natural illustration, learning how artists closely observe the world around them and translate what they see into accurate, expressive drawings. Designed as a focused studio experience, this program helps students strengthen foundational and advanced drawing skills while building confidence and artistic independence. No prior illustration experience is required—just curiosity, patience, and a willingness to look closely.

Students practice observation‑based sketching using plants, natural textures, landscapes, small creatures, and the human figure in motion. Instruction emphasizes proportion, gesture, structure, and anatomy, helping students understand how to draw realistically and with intention. Campers learn how line, shading, and contour bring clarity and depth to their work. Students also explore how natural illustration is used in real‑world applications and careers, including botanical and zoological illustration, field guides, environmental education, museums, and scientific publications. Through hands‑on activities, individual guidance, and group discussion, students develop both artistic skill and analytical thinking.

By the end of the session, each student creates a collection of detailed natural studies that reflects their growth in observation, technique, and visual communication. This intensive is ideal for students interested in art, science, or design—and for those who enjoy drawing from life and exploring the natural world through art.

About the Instructor

David Waldin is an artist, illustrator, graphic designer. His other interests also include wildlife photography, folklore and myth,  and music culture, particularly within the folk and metal genre—interests that strongly influence his visual style and creative approach.
David has taught a wide range of artistic subjects and mediums at the Heldeberg Workshop, The Doane Stuart School, and Albany Academy. He has been an instructor in Albany Academy’s summer programs for the past two years, where he works with students across age groups to build technical skills, creative confidence, and an appreciation for artistic process. This year will be his first year offering new courses which bridge art, culture, and science.

David completed a two‑year program at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and is currently a student at SUNY Purchase, where he is enrolled as an Environmental Studies major and is pursuing a career in ecology and wildlife conservation. His background in visual art and the humanities combined with his ecological work allows him to bring a contemporary, interdisciplinary perspective to his teaching and creative work.

Grades 5–8
July 20–July 24
12 - 4 p.m.
Teacher: Amanda Stickney, Albany Academy Faculty
Fee: $245

This one-week, half-day visual arts camp invites young artists to explore form, texture, and storytelling through bird-inspired sculpture. Drawing inspiration from real and imagined birds, students will experiment with a variety of sculptural materials and techniques, including papier-mâché, clay, wire, and mixed media. Each day will focus on a different aspect of sculpture : building structure, creating texture, refining details, and adding expressive elements.
Throughout the week, students will learn basic sculptural skills such as shaping, joining, and surface design, while developing an understanding of three-dimensional art. Emphasis is placed on imagination, craftsmanship, and artistic confidence in a supportive studio environment.

The week will conclude with an informal studio showcase where students can display their finished bird sculptures for family and friends. Students should wear comfortable clothing and bring a smock or large T-Shirt that can get messy, as hands-on exploration is a key part of the creative process.
Together with the morning ballet program, Birds of a Feather: Sculpture Studio offers a cohesive, full-day experience that blends visual art, movement, and storytelling, allowing students to explore a shared theme through both physical expression and hands-on creation.

Pairing Suggestion
We suggest taking this class along with the afternoon visual arts class, Birds of a Feather: Sculpture Studio, which continues the Birds of a Feather theme. In this companion program, students will create sculptural birds using papier-mâché, clay, and a variety of artistic techniques. Together, the two classes offer a full-day immersive experience that blends movement, storytelling, and hands-on creativity.

About the Educator

Ms. Stickney is a member of the Albany Academy faculty, where she serves as a substitute teacher and works in the Extended Day program. She holds a degree in Ceramics from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and brings a strong background in the visual arts to her work with students. Ms. Stickney spent 10 years at The Albany Institute of History & Art, where she deepened her appreciation for artistic practice and education. This will be her first summer with Academy Summer, and she is excited to share her passion for ceramics and sculpture with young artists. Outside the classroom, she enjoys throwing bowls, creating sculptures, and spending time with her cat.