Song and Stage Bootcamp is unique in that
it is led by experts and professionals in the
entertainment industry.
"This year we had a couple of casting
directors from Broadway come to the camp
and they helped teach the master classes and
workshops," Jason said. "They were actually
casting shows, and they got to listen to all of
the kids do their showcase at the end of the
week."
Young adult volunteer counselors also help
lead the campers. Jason's niece, Kristina, is
the head counselor.
"Some of the counselors are in college
as music or theater majors. They do a flash
mob thing, as most of them are alumni of the
camp as well. It's a wonderful opportunity for
them to connect with professionals as well,"
he said.
Each camper group earns points for doing
things like cleaning up, stepping up to help
someone out, lending an encouraging word,
and good behavior.
"You see these kids really strive to do
well, work hard and be encouraging to other
kids," Jason said.
In the evenings, students have fun attending
local shows and attractions in Branson. At the
end of the week, the students perform their
new and improved songs for their parents and
friends in an on-stage student showcase at the
Hughes Brothers Theatre.
A few students are selected by a student
vote to perform their solos as part of the
Hughes Music Show preshow. The preshow
culminates into a group performance, where
all of the students show off off how hard
they worked for an audience of 600-800.
This year, the final group performance was
"Seasons of Love," from the musical Rent.
Besides gaining skills for the stage, campers
grow in other ways.
"Our camp is a performance camp, but
also a Christian camp," Jason said. "We
want to give kids the opportunity to learn
about music and performance in a way
they they're not asked to compromise their
values or beliefs. We give them the tools
to be professional entertainers and make a
difference for good.
"I always feel like the things that they learn,
even if they never think they're going to be a
professional, it helps them learn to be leaders,
feel comfortable getting up in front of others,
work well with a group, be encouraging, make
friendships."
Learn more at
www.hughesentertainmentinc.com
and
www.branson.academy/songandstage
www.Of f icialKidsMag.com • SEPTEMBER 2023 • 29
