Summer Theater Camp
June 15 – June 19, 2026
The Center for the Arts
314 W. Main Street • Grass Valley, CA
✨ Find Your Voice: Summer Acting Intensive ✨
Ever wonder what makes a character feel real?
Join us for a fun, week-long afternoon acting camp where young performers explore their creativity, build confidence, and discover the magic of storytelling! This immersive experience is designed to help students trust their instincts, find their unique voice, and bring characters to life in an authentic way.
Throughout the week, campers will:
🎭 Explore character development and scene study
🎲 Play improv games that boost confidence and creativity
💡 Learn how to connect emotionally to a role
🎬 Break down scenes and bring stories to life
Each day is hands-on, supportive, and full of discovery—whether you’re brand new to the stage or already love to perform.
🌟 Grand Finale:
The week wraps up with a special showcase where students share their work with family and friends!
No matter your experience level, this camp will give you skills, confidence, and memories that last far beyond the stage.
🎟️ Reserve your spot today!
• Complete required paperwork by June 1, 2026 to secure enrollment.
Instructor: Judy Merrick
Time: 12:30pm-3:30pm (pick up between 3:30-4:00)
Ages: 8 – 14
Cost: $295 each week
🌼 Instructor Bio: Judy Merrick
Judy Merrick is a professional actress, director, and teaching artist with over 25 years of experience bringing stories to life on stage. Based in the Nevada City area, she is a proud board member and director at Lyric Rose Theatre, where she is deeply committed to fostering a vibrant local arts community.
Judy spent 13 years working in the New York City theater scene and has performed on stages across the United States, as well as in Europe and Mexico. Locally, audiences have seen her in productions such as Present Laughter, What We’re Up Against, The Moors (Sierra Theatre), Rent, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Lyric Rose Theatre), along with a variety of immersive theater experiences.
She is a three-time consecutive Best Actress award winner (BroadwayWorld), a recognition of both her artistry and dedication to her craft.
As a director, Judy most recently led Beetlejuice Junior, and has also assistant directed Into the Woods and The Last 5 Years, bringing creativity, care, and precision to every production.
For the past five years, Judy has taught actors of all ages through local after-school programs, musicals, and plays. She is passionate about helping students of every experience level grow in confidence, creativity, and joy.
Her philosophy: Great acting isn’t about pretending—it’s about finding the truth in a character and making it your own.
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