The 19th annual “City Arts Cultural Camp for Kids” takes place June 26 - 30. This fantastic opportunity is open to youngsters ages of 7 - 10.

The camp, a collaborative project of the Allentown Art Museum, Allentown Symphony Association, The Baum School of Art, Civic Theatre of Allentown, Community Music School, and Repertory Dance Theatre, allows campers to learn about the arts while participating in activities and classes at each one of these Allentown arts nonprofits.

Stephanie Kocher, the camp’s Education Director, and a 2007 Easton High School graduate, received a Master’s Degree in Arts’ Administration from Goldsmith College, London, England. “I’ve been involved in music and the arts since first or second grade,” says Kocher. “So, I can relate to children who are interested in and excited about the arts.

“This is a great opportunity for a lot of kids to experience the arts outside of regular school programs, to explore their own creativity, and see what they might be good at.”

Every year, the “City Arts Cultural Camp for Kids” offers new activities and many campers return from year to year. The camp week culminates with performances by the students for their families.

Kocher is very excited for this year’s program. “The students get backstage looks at all the organizations, get to work with excellent instructors, and to perform on stage,” she says.

“The camp is something that has been a long-standing tradition with the local arts’ organizations. It gives students an introduction to all forms of art, led by the best instructors. It’s something they can carry with them the rest of their lives.”

Each participating venue offers a different experience for the campers.

At the Allentown Art Museum, campers get a behind-the-scenes look at the workings of an art museum, and will work on curating an exhibit of their own artwork.

During their time at the Allentown Symphony Association’s Miller Symphony Hall, campers learn to make their own musical instruments. At the Baum School of Art campers will draw, paint and sculpt.

Civic Theatre of Allentown offers campers the chance to experiment with acting and perform a showcase at the end of the week.

Community Music School will teach campers to play the flutophone, a recorder-like wind instrument, and each student will get to bring their instrument home with them.

Campers learn the basics of dance at the Repertory Dance Theatre and will finish with a small informal dance performance June 30.

“My favorite part of the camp experience,” says Kocher, “is the look on a student’s face when they learn something new. Their faces just light up, it’s exciting to see.

“We encourage parents with a child interested in the arts to sign them up. It’s a great opportunity for them to discover the arts in their own backyard.”

“City Arts Cultural Camp for Kids” financial aid is available.

Tuition includes program materials and daily snack. Deadline for registration is June 2.

“City Arts Cultural Camp for Kids” Camp is 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. June 26 - 30. Tuition includes program materials and a daily snack. Campers are responsible for bringing their own lunch. Space is limited. For information and to register: Baum School of Art, registrar@baumschool.org; 610-433-0032.