Northstar Baptist Church pastor Barry Saip and his wife Sue took inspiration by what they and some of their friends down on the West Coast did last summer and want to bring to the community at the end of the school year a fine arts experience for kids.
“We can’t wait to meet all our participants who have a passion for the arts like ourselves,” Sue said.
She goes on to say, “The reason behind why we are starting this camp program is simple and it’s our mission statement for the entire program.
‘We want to offer a quality arts program to the kids in our community, introducing and encouraging an interest in the arts with an opportunity to be mentored by artists active in their fields.
“We’ve got a great team of talented friends to work with here in Quesnel. We couldn’t be more excited and happy with our instructors.”
Barry has taught drama and puppetry both in and outside of Quesnel and sees a fine arts camp like this as a necessity.
“Sadly, with budget cutbacks in our schools, the first thing on the chopping block to go is usually the arts related programs,” he said.
“We tend to place such a huge emphasis on sports as the only area where kids can flourish and find their giftedness. We want to celebrate the arts and offer a chance for kids, ages 8 – 12, to work and learn from professionals in these fields.”
The camp will be held at Northstar Church and runs June 27 – 30, 3 – 6 p.m., Monday – Thursday, with a showcase of the work happening on July 1 during the Canada Day celebrations.
For $40 ($50 after June 1) parents can enroll their children in two of the following classes: musical theatre; art; puppets; drama; percussion; and culinary arts (cooking).
The price also includes a commemorative T-shirt.
Space is limited and elective choices will be on a first come, first served basis.
Pre–registration opens May 14, 9 a.m. – noon at Northstar Church.
Call Northstar Church 250-992-8830 for information or visit the Rising Stars Fine Arts Experience for Kids facebook page.