Summer Stage: Rex Arts Holding Performing Arts Camps in Cranberry, Zelienople

Growing up in Zelienople, Seneca Valley graduate Nathan Brewer recalls daily commutes to Pittsburgh during the summer during so he could take theatre classes at the Oakland-based Civic Light Opera.

“As a kid I was so un-athletic, it was embarrassing,” he said. “There was no artistic outlet for me in town to try.”

These days, kids don’t have to travel quite so far from home to try their hand at the performing arts.

For the second year in a row, Recreational Arts, Inc., a non-profit educational organization, is offering summer performing arts camps in Cranberry—and beyond. 

For the first time, Rex Arts also is offering programs in Zelienople, Pine Township, Marshall Township, Franklin Park, Ross, Ohio Township, North Huntingdon and Murrysville.

Brewer, who now lives in New York City and is the artistic director for Rex Arts, said the nonprofit, which also has programs in New York and New Jersey, offers need-based financial assistance to all families who qualify.

“Our programs are much more affordable than conservatories or professional training programs, they are local and convenient for working parents,” he said.

In Cranberry, there are three five-day camps for varying age ranges taking place in June, July and August at the Cranberry Township Municipal Center. 

At the end of each camp, the campers, who participated in singing, acting and dancing classes all week, will give a performance in the Cranberry Town Square.

For children in grades 1-6 who participate in the Zelienople camp, they will march in the borough’s annual Fourth of July parade as well as perform in the new amphitheater at Zelienople Community Park.

Brewer, who has returned to his alma mater in 2006 through 2009 to direct Seneca Valley’s spring musicals, said kids have a blast in the program.

“There aren’t any stars. It’s not about solos,” he said. “Our goal is to ignite a spark of interest in the arts for the kids.”

To learn more about Rex Arts, or to sign up for the performing arts program in your town, click here.