2024 ArtPlay: "Willy Wonka Jr."The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s ArtPlay Community Education has new summer camps and studios for children and teens, open now for registration.

ArtPlay’s award-winning musical theater and visual arts camps ensure children have an unforgettable summer filled with creativity and fun. New this year are themed visual arts camps and a creative writing camp, plus a new stagecraft camp focused on theater production and technical skills, complementing ArtPlay’s beloved musical theater camps for kids and teens. 

Early-bird pricing is available until March 15. Early registration is encouraged as camp and studio spaces fill up fast. Most camp and studio hours are 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Extended care before and after camp is available for an additional fee. Visit alysstephens.org/connect/summer-camps/ for full details. 

ArtPlay is part of the UAB Center for the Arts. Discounts are available for UAB employees. For more information, call ArtPlay at 205-975-4769.

ArtPlay Visual Arts Camp: Eco Art Exploration, June 1-5

Creativity meets the natural world in this one-week camp for young artists ages 6-12, who will experiment with color, texture and technique using sustainable and nature-inspired materials. Campers will discover how art and environment connect, transforming everyday elements into works of art. The experience concludes with a gallery exhibition of their work for friends and family at the historic ArtPlay House. Tuition is $320 when registered before March 15; includes all supplies and a T-shirt. Register.

ArtPlay Visual Arts Camp: Cosmic Creators, July 27-31

Blast off into a universe of creativity in this one-week, out-of-this-world art adventure. Young makers ages 6-12 will explore color, texture and form while imagining new worlds and cosmic creatures of their own design. This camp is now sold out.

ArtPlay Creative Writing Studio: Poetry & Narrative, June 29-July 1

For young storytellers ages 13-18 who see the world through words, this immersive three-day writing lab nurtures imagination, collaboration and the joy of expression. Students will craft original works and share their voices in a special presentation. Tuition is $160 when registered before March 15; includes all supplies and a T-shirt. Register.

2025 ArtPlay: "Alice in Wonderland Jr."ArtPlay Visual Arts Studio: Watercolor and Pastels, June 29-July 1

Designed for aspiring teen artists ages 13-18, this three-day studio experience dives into the expressive possibilities of watercolor and pastel. Campers will experiment with color, light and texture as they refine their technique and develop a personal artistic voice. The session concludes with a gallery showcase at the historic ArtPlay House celebrating creativity, growth and the beauty of soft color in motion. Tuition is $160 when registered before March 15; includes all supplies and a T-shirt. Register.

ArtPlay Musical Theatre Camp: Roald Dahl’s “Matilda the Musical Jr.,” June 8-26

The students of Crunchem Hall are rising up, and kids ages 7-12 can join the revolt in this Broadway Junior adaptation of the Tony Award-winning hit “Matilda Jr.” During this three-week musical theater camp designed for elementary-age kids, young performers will dive into the imaginative story as they learn their lines, sing captivating songs and practice energetic choreography. With guidance from experienced, nurturing theater professionals, campers will be cast in roles and work together to bring the magical story to life on stage. This immersive camp, held at the Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center, culminates in a full performance for family and friends. Let your child’s creativity soar in this unforgettable theater adventure. Camp hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. with extended care available. No camp on June 19. Tuition is $850 when registered before March 15; includes two performance tickets, professional performance photos for download and a T-shirt. Register.

ArtPlay Musical Theatre Camp: Disney’s “Newsies Jr.,” July 6-24

Now is the time for middle and high schoolers ages 13-18 to “seize the day” and join ArtPlay Intermediate Musical Theatre Camp for Disney’s “Newsies Jr.” Over three exciting weeks, participants will explore their scripts, learn songs and master new choreography under the guidance of nurturing theater professionals. Campers will be cast in roles and collaborate to create a show-stopping performance of this Disney classic. Perfect for budding performers, this immersive experience combines creativity, teamwork and fun, building confidence on and off the stage as they bring this inspiring story to life. Camp hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. with extended care available. Tuition is $850 when registered before March 15; includes two performance tickets, professional performance photos for download and a T-shirt. Register.

ArtPlay Stagecraft & Production Camp: Disney’s “Newsies Jr.,” July 6-24

Alongside every great show is a great crew. This camp is designed for teens ages 13-18 who love theater but would rather learn to operate a spotlight than stand on stage themselves. Guided by some of the region’s best technical theater professionals, campers will learn the arts of lighting, sound and stagecraft — supporting the Intermediate Musical Theatre Camp’s production of Disney’s “Newsies Jr.” from behind the curtain. No need for prior theater crew experience, just a collaborative spirit and eagerness to learn how theater magic is made. Camp hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. with extended care available. Tuition is $850 when registered before March 15; includes two performance tickets, professional performance photos for download and a T-shirt. Register.