best theater-drama programs in Durham, NC

Dear Families, (currently our website is under construction) Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.

At BDTS, we strive to create an atmosphere of encouragement and support. Our teachers are passionate about helping each student reach their fullest potential, giving clear and kind corrections, and fostering a love for the art of dance. We focus on building self-confidence, strength, and grace in each of our classes, and emphasize the joy of movement. Our classes provide children with a safe, non-competitive environment where they can express themselves creatively. BDTS is dedicated to providing students with a high-quality, developmentally appropriate theatre education as well. Our theatre classes are designed to help students develop essential skills such as public speaking, problem solving, critical thinking, and teamwork. We focus on creating an environment that is both fun and challenging, encouraging students to take risks and explore their creativity. Our teachers are experienced in helping students find their voice, build self-confidence, and develop their performance skills. We strive to instill a passion for the theatre arts in each of our students.

At DRT, we encourage collaboration and dialogue over the arts and the experiences of different communities. Our theatre is a platform for diversity, inclusion and equity, with an emphasis on the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. We foster an environment that celebrates multiple perspectives, acknowledges different forms of knowledge, and encourages everyone to express their true selves. DRT is committed to creating a community of theatre makers and theatre goers that actively strives to bridge cultural barriers, increase awareness, and spark meaningful conversations. Our productions feature stories and characters from many cultures, with works that reflect the rich human diversity in Durham, NC. Through our programming, we strive to create a meaningful and lasting impact on our theatrical community.

Each season the Hillside Drama Department produces three to four full scale productions ranging from classical Shakespeare to modern musicals. The department also produces several student written productions and plays each year. Hillside Drama prides itself on giving students the opportunity to express themselves artistically. From a staff of award-winning teachers to passionate and talented students, the Hillside Drama Department has always been a place to explore creativity. Hillside Drama isn't just about the production process, it's about developing the artist within each student. Hillside Drama offers a variety of classes to students, such as acting, directing, design, stage management, and technical theatre. Hillside Drama also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities for students to explore the craft of theatre. From improv clubs to touring productions, Hillside Drama allows students to explore their creative side. With Hillside Drama, students have the opportunity to express themselves, create, and learn about the craft of theatre.

Movie Makers is the perfect resource for children, teens and adults to develop their movie making skills. We offer a wide range of workshops and camps to help refine existing talents or learn new ones. Our experienced instructors provide guidance on all aspects of movie making, from the production side to the performers. Movie Makers is dedicated to helping children, teens and adults of all abilities learn the art of movie making. Our camps and workshops are tailored to individual skill levels and interests. Our knowledgeable staff will provide guidance and support to ensure that everyone gets the most out of their experience. Since 2001, we have been helping our students develop the skills to become the next generation of movie makers.

At Durham Ballet Theatre, we are dedicated to providing pre-professional training to an eclectic range of dancers. We strive to make the performing arts available to everyone, regardless of their cultural, economic, or artistic background. We strive to bring more opportunities to those communities who are underserved in Durham. We provide lectures and demonstrations to the public, and free performances to those who would not be able to attend otherwise. We also provide facilities for others to be involved in the promotion of the arts. By doing so, we are helping to make sure that everyone has a chance to experience the beauty of dance.

Walltown's annual program for children and youth offers a full year of artistic instruction. Each August, auditions are held for placement in our company, competition and PLAYers groups, as well as a “Level-Up” evaluation for those wishing to be placed in classes level 4 and above. We offer two main sessions (Session I beginning in August and Session II in February) and two intercessions (Winter/January and Summer/July) to help our students prepare for the upcoming Fall classes. With our January intercession, students have the opportunity to “Level-Up” in the middle of the year. Our Annual showcase in June provides our students with performance opportunities. In addition to our regular instruction, Walltown provides private lessons, labs, workshops and intensives throughout the year. To help students further their skills, we also offer week-long Summer camps in June, July & August. At Walltown, we believe that with the right instruction and guidance, every child and youth can become an artist. Our dedicated team of teachers and staff are here to help our students reach their full potential and explore their creativity in a safe and supportive environment.