Summer Stage: Rex Arts Holding Performing Arts Camps in Ross & Ohio Townships

Growing up in Zelienople, Seneca Valley graduate Nathan Brewer recalls daily commutes to Pittsburgh during the summer during so he could take theatre classes at the Oakland-based Civic Light Opera. 

“As a kid I was so un-athletic, it was embarrassing,” he said. “There was no artistic outlet for me in town to try.”

These days, kids don’t have to travel quite so far from home to try their hand at the performing arts. 

For the second year in a row, Recreational Arts, Inc., a non-profit educational organization, is offering summer performing arts camps in the North Hills area -- and beyond. 

Rex Arts is offering programs in Zelienople, Pine Township, Marshall Township, Franklin Park, Ohio Township, Cranberry, North Huntingdon and Murrysville. 

Brewer, who now lives in New York City and is the artistic director for Rex Arts, said the nonprofit, which also has programs in New York and New Jersey, offers need-based financial assistance to all families who qualify. 

“Our programs are much more affordable than conservatories or professional training programs, they are local and convenient for working parents,” he said. 

In Ross, there are two camps, one for grades 1-3 and a second for grades 4-6. Both are scheduled for Aug 5-9.

There are two similar camps in Ohio Township on July 29 to Aug 2.

At the end of each camp, the campers, who participated in singing, acting and dancing classes all week, will give a performance for parents, relatives, and friends. 

To learn more about Rex Arts, or to sign up for the performing arts program in your town, click here. 

Join Patch for more community news or join us on Facebook and Twitter.  Check out some of today's other top stories here.