Auditorium Theatre's HANDS TOGETHER, HEART TO ART Summer Camp to Kick Off 7/8

Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University embarks on the ninth annual, award-winning summer camp "Hands Together, Heart to Art" (HTHTA). Children ages 7 - 14 who have experienced the loss of one or both parents are invited to this one-of-a-kind camp that uses the performing arts to encourage communication, foster emotional growth and provide young people with the consolation of friendship and compassion from their peers and instructors. Camp is divided into two, two-week sessions; July 8 - 19 (ages 7 - 10) and July 22 - August 2 (ages 11 - 14). For more information on "HTHTA," visit AuditoriumTheatre.org.

"As a child who lost a parent at a very early age myself, I understand the importance of finding different mechanisms to cope with that loss and surround oneself with others who can understand what you are going through," said Auditorium Theatre Executive Director Brett Batterson, who unexpectedly lost his father at the age of seven. "To be able to help a child get through one of the most traumatic life experiences and assure them that there is still a bright future to look forward to, is one of the most rewarding feelings. To see those students come back to camp years later and in turn work with other kids to teach them the same thing, is remarkable."

"HTHTA" celebrates the healing power of creative play, allowing campers the ability to share their stories through various skills including acting, music and various forms of movement. Through participation in drama, music and dance classes campers are able to find alternative methods of expressing their emotions while building their confidence and self esteem. "Sharing time," where campers are divided into small groups facilitated by professional healing counselors, offers campers a comfortable, safe time and space to express and share their feelings with peers as well as on a one-on-one basis allowing them to realize that they are not the only ones going through this tragedy. Campers hear from arts professionals, grief specialists and adults from all walks of life who have experienced the loss of a parent showing them that there is hope for the future and that they too will be able to move forward and achieve great things. A full-time counselor is on hand throughout the entire duration of camp to give campers one-on-one counseling as needed. Using their own stories and the stories of others, campers work together to create, stage, rehearse and execute a performance culminating in a final showcase at the end of each session.

Led by Auditorium Theatre Director of Creative Engagement, Christina Bourné, the ninth edition of "HTHTA" centers around the theme "Time: The Legacy Continues." Campers are encouraged to focus on the lasting memories of their parent while realizing how they are able to carry on their legacy for future generations. Campers will build time capsules to capture the essence of their loved ones as well as their time spent at camp. Campers will also have the unique opportunity to work with a member of the Chicago Cabaret Professionals in order to use the songwriting process as a means of healing. The song, written by students, will be performed during one of camp's final performances.

Chicago Awards - Live Stats

Best Musical - Top 3

1. RENT (Highland Park Players)

7.2% of votes

2. HAIRSPRAY (Uptown Music Theater of Highland Park)

7.2% of votes

3. DREAMGIRLS (The Drama Group)

6.5% of votes

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