THE ELLIS SCHOOL

What can creating an original performance teach us about teamwork, compromise, and problem solving? In this Lab, participants will create a theatrical production while exploring these questions and developing performance skills in a creative, collaborative, and design-centered environment. All participants will be encouraged to have a hand in all facets of the production and will cultivate technical skills in acting, vocal music, movement, set design, and playwriting.

The collaborative setting of this Lab allows participants to understand their strengths as communicators and changemakers as they work together to design, produce, and realize a 30-minute performance. The final performance will take place in the evening on the final day of camp. Prior experience with theater performances or a strong interest in diving deeply into this topic through a two-week immersive experience is highly encouraged. Passionate and enthusiastic newcomers are welcome! 

Join our Engineer the Future: Robotics Lab to find innovative solutions to puzzling challenges through teamwork, a curiosity for investigating possibilities, and the engineering design process. Tomorrow's changemakers will be required to think outside the box and use tools and technology to engage in creative problem solving. Participants in this Lab will use coding and tools such as Hummingbird robotics kits, CAD, and 3D printing to prototype a unique solution to a human-centered design challenge. Participants will also investigate how design thinking and connecting with the community paves the way for creating a lasting impact.

Prepare to embark on a journey into the world of biodiversity, conservation, and animal welfare in this brand new Changemakers Lab! Participants will transform into conservation scientists, each choosing an animal from the endangered species list to “adopt” and use as their lens to investigate current topics and challenges in wildlife stewardship. They will dive headfirst into captivating case studies that unravel the mysteries of how some species claw their way back from the brink of extinction and some do not. Changemakers will learn about the roles of keystone and invasive species and how they shape the ecosystems they inhabit and their implications for our planet's biodiversity. This Lab will wrap up with the creation of a one-of-a-kind showcase for each chosen animal, its habitat, and the crucial steps we can take to help it thrive once again.

*SOLD OUT* Waitlist spots are available
Dates: June 10–14, 2024
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Cost: $450
Instructor: Peter Barbor, Ellis Visual Arts Teacher

How can young artists express their voices through a variety of mediums? What is the process behind organizing a cohesive exhibit and framing its message? Participants will explore these questions in this studio-focused Lab through working with materials ranging from clay to mixed media. They will spend the week exploring, creating, and eventually presenting their creations in a camper-curated show.

Visiting artists and an off-site excursion will give participants a behind-the-scenes look at the methods of local artists and arts organizations. After examining how practicing artists make and display their work, participants will craft reflective pieces using a multitude of mediums. Changemakers will fully explore how personal expression and meaning-making foster and forge community. While no previous arts experience is required, a love for materials, experimentation, and process is strongly encouraged.