Messiah Music Camp focuses on singing, drama

MADISON – Youngsters at Messiah Music Camp can enjoy a well-planned schedule of singing and acting while making friendships.

Founded in the 1990s, Messiah Music Camp offers a quality program in summer musical theatre for local children. Not a version of vacation Bible school, the camp “offers a wholesome and non-competitive environment for children to experience the joy of singing and acting while making friends and having fun through crafts and recreation activities,” camp director Lois Graff said.

Graff also serves as Director of Music Ministries and accompanist/organist.

All children in kindergarten through grade 9 are welcome to attend the camp, which will meet June 3-9 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Campers will have a Saturday morning dress rehearsal to prepare for musical presentations during Sunday worship.

Campers will rehearse the musical “Light of Life: Signs of the Savior,” based on Jesus’ seven signs in the Gospel of John. Graff and Messiah Pastor Scott Peterson currently are writing and composing the musical.

“The goodness, love and majesty of God were revealed to humankind through Jesus,” Graff said. “In John’s gospel, Jesus’ seven signs reveal his divinity and point us to our eternal Father. While learning the musical, children will explore these seven signs and Jesus’ saving mission.”

Music and drama instruction fills much of the morning schedule. Campers rehearse songs from the musical with professional music educators. Older campers are encouraged to audition for solos and speaking roles.

Messiah Music Camp volunteers produce all costumes and props for the musical in house.

Along with music, the campers will enjoy crafts, recreation, worship and a snack. After a sack lunch (brought from home), campers will have afternoon activities: crafts and learning about Messiah Lutheran’s outreach, June 3; bowling at Madison Bowling Center, June 4; mini-golf at Insanity Complex, June 5; roller skating at Carousel Park, June 6; fun movies, Friday.

Camp fee is $95. A family’s second child will pay $75, and the third child will pay $55. The fee includes admission to amusements and bus transportation.

Messiah Lutheran Church’s address is 7740 U.S. 72 W. in Madison. For more information, email musiccamp@mlutheran.org or visit musiccamp.mlutheran.org.