LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — A local youth theater program is celebrating five years of helping children develop confidence, creativity and leadership skills through the performing arts.
Shawnee High School graduate Madison Downing created the "Made for the Stage" Youth Theatre Workshop to share her passion for theater and teach children the skills needed to succeed on stage.
The program offers hands-on activities that cover acting, directing, playwriting and other aspects of theater production.
Speaking to the Lima Kiwanis Club, Downing said one of the most rewarding parts of the program is watching campers build friendships and grow personally throughout the experience.
“From the first day of camp, a lot of times they're all like sitting for lunch. They all sit kind of away or when they first get there, everyone's like afraid to be near each other. And by the end of it, I can't get them to stop talking to each other, which is an amazing thing for me to see. Even with these returning kids, we get to see them grow so much. Their writing skills, their ability to communicate with other people and to honestly just be fantastic leaders. It's been really exciting to see,” Downing said.
This year's camp has reached capacity with 36 campers enrolled, making it the largest camp in the program's history.
Downing relies on sponsors and donations to keep the camp free for participants.
More information about the "Made for the Stage" Youth Theatre Workshop can be found on the program's Facebook page.
