Youth Performing Arts Academy
The Stephen Foster Story is excited to launch its Youth Performing Arts Academy—an exciting new opportunity for young performers to explore the world of theater, music, and dance on one of Kentucky’s most iconic stages.
Each session is designed to spark creativity, build confidence, and introduce students to the fundamentals of performing arts, all under the guidance of experienced theater professionals. Whether your child is taking their first step on stage or looking to grow their skills, the Youth Performing Arts Academy is the perfect place to shine.
In its inaugural year, the Academy will offer three engaging sessions:
THANK YOU to our session one performers
| Session One of the Youth Performing Arts Academy was a huge hit! Area kids improved their acting, singing, dancing, and stagecraft skills. The camp’s goal was to build confidence, stage presence, and have fun learning about theater. We are confident that it was a HUGE success. The week wrapped up with a fantastic performance of Disney’s Dare to Dream, Jr. The audience was super supportive and the performers really shined on stage. Thank you to our performers, families, and academy staff. |
July 22–26 | Day Camp
Go behind the scenes of The Stephen Foster Story for Tech Week! This immersive day camp gives students hands-on experience with lighting, sound, set changes, costumes, and stage management as they learn what it takes to bring a full-scale production to life.
- Grades: 8th – 12th
- Times: 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. daily; 5:30 – 11 p.m. on July 26
- Location: J. Dan Talbott Amphitheater, 411 E Stephen Foster Ave in Bardstown
- Cost: $250/camper
- Shadow Night: July 26th at 5:30 – 11 p.m.
August 18–23 | After School Camp
This session emphasizes acting fundamentals, storytelling, and stage movement, helping students build confidence and creativity through the art of theater. The week wraps up with Disney’s Finding Nemo Kids, showcasing everything they’ve learned in a fun, under-the-sea adventure!
- Grades: 2nd – 8th
- Times: 3:30 – 6:30 p.m. on August 18 – 22; 3:30 p.m. on August 23
- Location: J. Dan Talbott Amphitheater, 411 E Stephen Foster Ave in Bardstown
- Cost: $250/camper
- Public Performance: August 23 at 6:30 p.m.
- Tickets are $5 cash and can be purchased at the door on the night of the performance.
Meet the teaching artists
I am a Math and Theatre Teacher at Thomas Nelson High School. I direct TNHS productions and work in professional theater both as an actor and sound designer/engineer.
Education/Experience
- Bachelor’s Degree in Music (Vocal Emphasis) from Campbellsville University
- Masters of Divinity from Southern Baptist Seminary
- Masters of Arts in Teaching from WKU
- 20+ productions in the last five years
I teach Theatre and English at my alma mater, Bethlehem High School! I’m also the director for our International Thespian Society Troupe, and I direct our Theatre productions.
Education/Experience
- Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education – English
- Master’s in Theatre Education from the University of Northern Colorado (in progress)
- Broadway Teacher’s Workshop
- 10 years at The Stephen Foster Story