Program Tracks & Opportunities
Summer Scholars On Stage offers three Program Tracks that work together to create an original musical: the Performance Track, the Writing Track (with Scriptwriting and Music Composition), and the Technical Theatre Track. Each track focuses on a different part of the process, but all come together to create one fully staged show.
Writing Track (Scriptwriting & Music Composition)
One–week • Scriptwriting & Songwriting • Limited enrollment
The Writing Track is the creative starting point for the entire Summer Scholars On Stage experience. Over the course of one week, students work together to create the script and music for an original musical comedy. All Writing Track participants begin in a shared group, exploring brainstorming techniques, story structure, and how music and theatre work together to tell a story.
After this initial phase, students choose one of two creative paths based on their interests: the Scriptwriting Track or the Music Composition Track.
Scriptwriting Track (Limited to 15)
The Scriptwriting Track focuses on building the world of the show—its characters, dialogue, scenes, and overall story arc. Scriptwriting students learn how to structure a script, write believable dialogue, and develop characters who grow and change throughout the play.
Application requirement: an original short story or play (minimum 1200 words).
Music Composition Track (Limited to 9)
The Music Composition Track is designed for students who love writing music and lyrics. These students work together to create the songs that will be performed in the final show and explore how lyrics, melody, and harmony support the story.
Applicants should submit:
- Lyrics for an original song.
- A recording of that song (audio or video).
- A recommendation from a teacher, music director, or professional artist who can speak to your musical ability or commitment.
Together, the Scriptwriting and Music Composition tracks give students a rare opportunity to see their work move from idea to finished production and watch actors perform the scenes and songs they created in front of a live audience.
Technical Theatre Track
Backstage experience • Sets, lights, sound & stage management
The Technical Theatre Track is designed for students who are curious about how productions work behind the scenes. Instead of performing on stage, technical theatre students focus on the visual and practical elements that make a show possible—sets, lighting, sound, props, stage management, and backstage organization.
Technical track participants learn shop and theatre safety, how to use basic tools, and how to read simple construction drawings. They work with staff to build and paint platforms and flats, create and organize props, and help design the look and feel of the set.
As the production moves into rehearsals, technical theatre students learn how to support the performance process. They may assist with setting up rehearsal spaces, organizing props and costumes, and helping with transitions between scenes.
In the days leading up to the performance, technical theatre students assist with technical rehearsals and dress rehearsals. They may serve as board operators, run crew, or assistant stage managers, helping to ensure that each performance runs smoothly. Along the way, they build practical skills in communication, problem–solving, and time management.
The Technical Theatre Track is an excellent fit for students who enjoy hands–on work, creative problem–solving, or thinking about how all of the technical elements of a show come together.
Performance Track
Two–week performance experience • Up to 40 students • Three–act original musical
The Performance Track is a two–week, performance–focused experience where campers bring the original musical to life on stage. Up to 40 students are cast in three separate acts, each featuring its own group of performers, ensemble work, and featured roles. Whether you are new to theatre or have years of experience, you will spend your days learning how to tell a story through acting, movement, and music.
During the first days of camp, students participate in auditions, music rehearsals, and movement or choreography workshops. You will work with directors and choreographers to learn the basics of stage presence, blocking, vocal performance, and character development. As the show begins to take shape, rehearsals focus on ensemble work, character development, and staging.
In the second week, rehearsals become more focused and detailed. Campers rehearse in the theatre, incorporating costumes, props, and technical elements such as lighting and sound. You will experience what it is like to be part of a real production—from first read–through to final dress rehearsal—and share that work with an audience of family, friends, and community members.
The Performance Track emphasizes teamwork, responsibility, and confidence on stage while creating friendships and memories that last long after the final curtain call.