Eagle Theatre's Youth Summer Camp Presents ALADDIN, Now thru 7/21

The Eagle Theatre, located at 208 Vine Street in Hammonton, N.J., began its Summer Camp for Young performers last week. Under the instruction of the theatre's co-artistic director Ed Corsi, as well as Rich Curcio and an entire team of industry professionals, 22 students will spend four weeks in June and July learning the fundamentals of the dramatic arts. The program will culminate with four performances of Disney's Aladdin in mid-July.

"These kids are laying down a foundation that they can build on in whatever theatrical endeavors they choose to pursue," says assistant head instructor Nikki Giapoutzis. "They're going to be way ahead of the curve."

Besides rehearsing for Aladdin, the students, who range from 8 to 14 years old, take classes covering a wide range of important subjects. Whether it's music director Tom Abruzzo teaching the difference between melodies and harmonies, or guest teacher Casey Conan outlining the basics of technical stage management, the students are gaining valuable information for every budding thespian.

The educational team did realize the need to break up the lessons, so they implemented "theatrically geared recreational play." It's big phrase that boils down to improvisational practice, characterization techniques and other forms of enjoyable, free-form activities. They stress, however, that the students are always learning-even if they don't realize it.

Disney's Aladdin will run at the Eagle Theatre tonight, July 18, 19 and 20 at 7 p.m., and July 21 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for General Admission and $13 for senior citizens and children. Tickets can be purchased at www.TheEagleTheatre.com. For more information, please contact the box office at (609) 704-5012.