Performing Arts Camp is for campers entering Pre-K (or turning 4 by Set. 30) through 9th grade. We tailor the program to fit each group appropriately.

The Francine and Benson Pilloff Family Playmakers Performing Arts Camp is The Mandel Jewish Community Center of Cleveland's day camp that focuses strongly on creative expression, performance and backstage techniques. The goal is to build self esteem and self- confidence through the arts in a nurturing environment. All campers start and end their day at Fairmount Temple.

Drop off begins at 8:50 AM with warm-ups starting promptly at 9:15 AM. Pick up for the Nitzanim Campers is at 2:15 PM. Pick up for the rest of camp begins at 4:15 PM and is typically over by 4:30 PM. Morning (begins at 7:30 AM) and afternoon (ends at 6:00 PM) extended care hours are available if you are need of additional care.

We have many campers that choose to participate in both sessions of camp. We also have many campers that choose either first session or second session. The schedule is compatible with the other JCC camps to allow for campers to have a taste of 2 different camps in the summer. However, each session of Performing Arts Camp is different – classes have different content ad the shows are different, and in many cases, their groups change, so campers that stay for both are not getting repeat experiences.

The Performing Arts Nitzanim campers use sprinkles and small pools for water play. Our 1st and 2nd graders swim Mondays through Thursdays. They take a bus from Fairmount Temple to Mandel where they have free swim in the outdoor pool. We also offer instructional for that age group-specifically mini-swim lessons 3 times a week. These lessons are at no extra cost. The 3rd-9th graders have the option of free swim 4 times a week as an elective. They are also usseIf at any time in the summer you have any questions about your child level, the skills they are working on or any concerns please call the camp office immediately so that we may address your question or concern.

Definitely! Between dance classes everyday, dancing at our daily rehearsals, swimming/water play and our post lunch palooza-which can be anything from capture the flag, to kickball, to wacky obstacle courses-they come home pooped!

The campers are outside for lunch, post -lunch palooza (gym time), swim, camp-wide activities, and some of their classes. We rehearse inside because we use our keyboard, and dance is held inside as well. We have a large grassy area right outside of our wing of classrooms, and we make sure to go outside as much as we can-weather permitting.

Absolutely! The staff is very nurturing, and they work hard at helping build confidence. This camp is a perfect opportunity for the child who needs help coming out of his/her shell AND for the child who needs a place to channel energy in a creative way. Performing Arts Camp accommodates kids with all different strengths, and we find that the kids all balance each other, learn from each other and learn to work together as a team.