Summer performing arts program for middle school students.
CASTSummer is a fun-filled, six-week summer program for incoming 5th through 8th graders led by Chicago-area professional artists. Our mission is to provide a supportive environment in which students can discover their creative talents. Students learn by doing and, in the process, learn skills that will last a lifetime. Learn more about the CAST philosophy here.
“Everyone who goes through one show in CAST is different when they come out. Whether you have more friends, you’ve learned more, you found out you can sing or you’ve gotten over your shyness, CAST changes you in one way or another.”
CASTSummer 2024 Program Details
The Basics
Dates: Monday June 10 - Sunday July 21, 2024
Location: Percy Julian Middle School, 416 S. Ridgeland, Oak Park, IL. 60302
Days/Times: Monday-Friday, 9:30 AM-2:30 PM; No camp June 19 and July 4-5.
Optional Extended Day option: 2:30-3:30 PM
Typical Day
9:30 AM - 12:00 PM Classes in Video, Acting and Stagecraft
12:oo - 12:30 PM Lunch & Relaxation
12:30 - 2:30 PM Rehearsal Period/CrewCall in small companies
PERFORMANCE CONCENTRATION
Students will be cast in a company of performers led and mentored by theatre professionals. Everyone will be required to follow current District 97 social distancing guidelines.
Acting Concentration participants need to prepare a 1-minute memorized audition piece for the first day of camp.
Vocal auditions will take place as needed during the first week of camp. Audition monologue ideas here.
Stagecraft Concentration
We’re thrilled to offer ‘CREW’ again this year! Students who choose Stagecraft learn from theatre professionals how to create and build the sets, props and clever gadgets that make our productions magical. Check out this behind-the-scenes look at the CAST Crew in action.
Students applying for crew should email Cory Marshall with the answer to the following question by April 6: What strengths will you bring to CASTSummer 2024?
PERFORMANCES
Each performance will be a high-quality, full-scale theatrical performance on stage in front of a live audience. Shows will be performed Thursday, July 18-Sunday, July 21, 2024.
Pandemic Preparedness
By paying tuition, students and their families agree to comply with all current CDC COVID protocols. Additional information will be provided to families shortly before CASTSummer begins. See CASTSummer FAQs for more details.
Tuition
$900 for six-week full day camp experience plus a weekend of performances.
Optional Extended Day
Add $100 for our Extended Day option for 2:30-3:30 PM. This additional hour provides personalized attention with lines, theatre games and more.
Due Dates
April 5, 2024 - Student online application, and stagecraft essay due. Acceptances will be sent via email.
May 10, 2024 - Non-refundable $200 deposit is due.
May 31, 2024 - Full tuition is due.
Tuition is payable by check, money order or online payment on the D97 website.
Scholarships are available from the Henry E. Reid Scholarship Fund.
For more information, contact Cory Marshall, CAST Program Manager, or call 708.524.7848.
To sign up for summer fill out the form below today!
Our Staff
FAQs
Gallery
For more information about CASTSummer, contact Cory Marshall or call 708.524.7848.