At The Contemporary Theatre of Ohio, we believe every child deserves a space to imagine, express themselves, and grow. Our camps and classes invite young people of all ages and experience levels to explore the magic of theatre in a fun, supportive environment.
Whether your child is outgoing or just beginning to find their voice, our programs nurture creativity, boost confidence, and build collaboration skills that last long after the final bow. Taught by experienced artist educators, each class offers hands-on learning through games, storytelling, movement, and performance.
From building confidence to fostering creativity and collaboration, our programs help kids grow on and off the stage. They might dream of performing or just want to try something new—either way, we pride ourselves on creating an environment where every child feels seen, supported, and free to be themselves. Because theatre isn’t just about acting—it’s about discovering yourself.
Camps & Classes
From Saturday Morning Musicals to Summer Camps, there’s something for everyone.
Share with family and friends.
Saturday Morning Musicals
Ages 8-14
Join us at the Riffe Center Theatre Complex, where we will spend Saturday mornings developing life-long skills through theatre: creative collaboration, teamwork, speaking to audiences, critical thinking and more. As a theatre team, our cast will adapt or write their own script, experience what it is like to audition for roles, and learn aspects of costume and set design—all culminating to a final performance on the last day.
Fall 2026
COMING SOON
9am-Noon
Riffe Center
Winter 2027
COMING SOON
9am-Noon
Riffe Center
Winter 2027
COMING SOON
9am-Noon
McConnell Arts Center
Spring 2027
COMING SOON
9am-Noon
Riffe Center
Summer Camps
Ages 8-14
Get ready to shine on and off the stage this summer. Our Summer Theatre Camp invites students ages 8-14 to embark on a thrilling journey from imagination to applause.
You won’t just perform, you’ll be creating something that’s uniquely yours! Students will work as a team to learn the full range of theatrical skills— from creating characters, to crafting costumes, to taking their final bow. You’ll have the unique opportunity to learn from experienced theatre artists who bring real-world insights into every lesson.
June 2026- RIFFE
June 1-26, 2026
SOLD OUT
M-F 8:30am-2:00pm
Riffe Center
$585
June 2026- CPAC
June 1-26, 2026
M-F 8:30am-2:00pm
Columbus Performing Arts Center
$585
July 2026- Four weeks
July 6-31, 2026
M-F 8:30am-2:00pm
Riffe Center
$295
July 2026- Two weeks
July 13-24, 2026
M-F 8:30am-2:00pm
Riffe Center
$325
Summer Mini Camps
Ages 5-7
Students will learn about the world of theatre through fun and creative activities. Each day will introduce a different aspect of theatre, including improv games, exploring costumes and props, creating your own skits and more!
Morning
June 29-July 3, 2026
M-F 9:30-11:30am
Riffe Center
$99
Afternoon
June 29-July 3, 2026
M-F 12:30-2:30pm
Riffe Center
$99
All tuition sales are final unless minimum enrollment is not reached, in which case, that particular session will be cancelled, and refunds will be issued. Scholarship opportunities are available for all educational programming. Please reach out to education@thecontemporaryohio.org for more information.
Don’t see a program near you? Email education@thecontemporaryohio.org to inquire about getting our programs in your community.
Apply for a scholarship.
Scholarship opportunities are available for all educational programming. Please reach out to Education Director Steve Hiller for more information.
education@thecontemporaryohio.org
Give a scholarship.
Your gift can help a child discover a lifelong love of theatre, and provide them a space where they feel welcome to be themselves. Invest in The Contemporary’s scholarship opportunities today.
Artist Educators
The Contemporary’s artist educators are working theatre professionals who bring their passion, creativity, and expertise into classrooms, camps, and community spaces across Columbus. With a deep belief in the power of storytelling and a commitment to student-centered learning, they guide young people in building confidence, collaboration, and self-expression—onstage and off.
Whether leading workshops, teaching acting fundamentals, or helping students create original work, our artist educators make every interaction inspiring, inclusive, and empowering.
Community
Partnerships &
Collaborations
The Contemporary proudly partners with many local organizations, such as Bexley Recreation & Parks and the McConnell Arts Center to bring theatre education into neighborhoods across Central Ohio. Through collaborative camps, workshops, and arts programs, we extend our reach beyond the stage—creating accessible, high-quality learning experiences that foster creativity, connection, and joy for students of all ages.
Together, we’re building a more vibrant, arts-rich Columbus—one story at a time.
“Working with The Contemporary has taught me to confidently embrace my individuality and it has helped me refine my deep passion for the arts.”
Student, Age 13
“This was a fantastic experience. Looking forward to the next opportunity to work with [The Contemporary].”
Parent of a Saturday Morning Musicals Student
Education
Support
