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School's Out for Summer, but Springfield Little Theatre is IN!

🎭 Discover Creativity & Confidence at Springfield Little Theatre’s Summer Camps

By Macaroni KID Springfield MO March 26, 2026

Summer in Springfield isn’t complete without a splash of drama, music, movement, and stage magic, and Springfield Little Theatre has just the ticket! Their Summer Youth Programs offer a variety of theatre-based camps and workshops for young performers and creative kids ages 4–18, from beginners to seasoned theatre lovers. 

Whether your child dreams of singing and dancing on stage or building skills behind the scenes, SLT’s summer lineup gives them the chance to grow confidence, make friends, and explore the performing arts in a supportive environment. 


Children raising hands at a stage play


🎬 Summer Camps for Every Interest


Kids at Springfield Little Theatre's Summer Stages camp performing a number

Summer Stages — A week of theatre fun packed with acting games, improvisation, musical numbers, dance, and scene work! These workshops are open to ages 4-18, all experience levels, and include an informal performance for family and friends at the end of the week. The lineup for summer 2026 is:

  • Gonna Be Golden: June 1-5
  • Under the Sea: June 8-12
  • Screen to Stage: June 15-19
  • Wiz-O-Mania: June 22-26
  • Rock N' Troll: August 17-21

Camps run 9am - 11am for ages 4-7, and 9am - 4pm for ages 8-18. Before and after camp care is available.



Students perform on stage at Springfield Little Theatre

Summer Series — Students ages 4–18 get hands-on experience in a musical theatre production from start to finish, culminating in a public performance. This “learning lab” format is perfect for kids who want both artistic growth and the thrill of live theatre. For summer 2026, the show is "Junie B's Essential Survival Guide to School, Jr." The camp runs August 3-15, 9am - 11am for ages 4-7 and 9am - 4pm for ages 8-18. Performances are August 14 and 15 at 10:30am, 12:30pm, and 2:30pm. 



Students performing onstage at Springfield Little Theatre's Summer Institutes

Summer Institutes — These immersive, two-week programs offer intensive training and include full-scale public productions, ideal for young performers ready to take their craft to the next level. This program is open to ages 8-18 with previous workshop experience required. 2026 Institutes are:

  • Matilda the Musical, Jr.: July 6-18, 9am - 4pm with performances July 17 & 18 at 10:30am, 12:30pm, and 2:30pm. 
  • Bye Bye Birdie Youth Edition: July 20 - August 1, 9am - 4pm with performances July 31 & August 1 at 10:30am, 12:30pm and 2:30pm.


Girl working with spotlight

Technical Theatre Camps — For students ages 12–18 curious about what happens backstage, these camps dive into scenic design, lighting, sound, costumes, and more, giving hands-on experience that helps bring productions to life. Students can get hands-on experience at:

  • Matilda the Musical: July 6-18
  • Bye Bye Birdie Youth Edition: July 20-August 1
  • Junie B's Essential Survival Guide to School, Jr.: August 3-15


Devising Original Theatre Logo

Summer Intensive — Devising Original Theatre Young Artist Intensive for ages 12-18. For students who want to create their own theatrical stories onstage, the intensive explores strategies for storytelling through movement, words, sound, lighting, and puppetry. The culmination of this intensive includes performances during the July 9-12 DOTS Fringe Festival at The Judy.
Camp runs June 29-July 2 from 9am - 4pm with performances July 11 & 12 at 1pm.




SLT education department logo


✨ What Families Can Expect

  • Ages: 4–18 (varies by program) 
  • Dates: Camps and workshops run from May through August
  • Activities: Acting, musical theatre, movement, improvisation, choreography, and performance skills — plus technical theatre and backstage experience. 
  • Extras: Most programs include snacks and a camp t-shirt, with optional before/after care available. 
  • Experience Levels: From first-time performers to advanced students, there’s a place for everyone. 

Participation in these youth programs encourages teamwork, discipline, self-expression, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts — all through creative, hands-on learning in a welcoming theatre community. 

Whether your child wants to shine center stage or learn the secrets of backstage magic, Springfield Little Theatre’s summer camps are a standout way to keep creativity alive all season long. Spots fill quickly, so register now to secure your best summer yet!

Register for Summer Youth Programs Here!