ABCT Summer Youth Acting Camp

More Than a Camp—It’s Where Summer Comes Alive for Young Artists in New Orleans

In a city where music, movement, and culture shape everyday life, summer for many young people in New Orleans means more than time away from school—it means a chance to discover confidence, creativity, and community. That spirit continues this year as the Anthony Bean Community Theater & Acting School prepares to welcome students back for its 2026 Summer Performing Arts Camp.

Known throughout the city for its commitment to arts education and youth development, the camp has earned a strong reputation not only for training young performers, but for creating an experience families say leaves a lasting impact.

“This isn’t about sitting in a classroom all summer,” said Artistic Director Anthony Bean. “It’s about giving young people a place to grow, express themselves, and actually enjoy the work.”

Where Creativity Meets Joy

At ABCT, camp days are structured with purpose while still maintaining an atmosphere of excitement and creativity. Students participate in acting, voice training, movement, and storytelling exercises designed to help them develop both performance skills and personal confidence.

Camp Organizers say the environment encourages students to learn while still enjoying the spirit of summer. Laughter fills rehearsal spaces as students build friendships, sharpen communication skills, and step outside of their comfort zones.

Parents often describe the camp as a place where children become more expressive, focused, and self-assured by the end of the summer session.

Talent Show Thursdays: The Stage Belongs to Them

One of the most anticipated traditions of the program is “Talent Show Thursdays,” when students showcase scenes, songs, monologues, dance routines, and other performances they have worked on throughout the week.

The weekly showcase gives campers a chance to perform before peers, instructors, and family members in a supportive environment designed to celebrate growth and creativity.

“It’s where they get to shine,” Bean said. “Not perfectly—but proudly.”

Families attending the performances often speak about how quickly students become more comfortable speaking, performing, and expressing themselves publicly.

Field Trip Fridays: Because Summer Should Still Feel Like Summer

While the camp emphasizes discipline and artistic development, organizers say they also understand the importance of allowing children to simply enjoy being young.

Each Friday, campers participate in recreational outings and group activities designed to help students relax, bond, and create lasting summer memories outside of the classroom setting.

Camp Leaders say the outings reinforce an important balance between hard work and joy.

The Difference: The Bean Method

At the center of the program is the school’s Signature Teaching Philosophy known as the Bean Method, a culturally grounded approach focused on helping students learn how to listen, respond, and carry themselves with intention both on and off the stage.

Rather than relying solely on lectures or traditional instruction, the program emphasizes hands-on learning through performance, interaction, and creative exploration.

For many families, that balance is what makes the experience unique.

Why Parents Choose ABCT

Families from across New Orleans continue returning to the program because of its ability to combine structure, discipline, creativity, and fun in one environment.

Parents say the camp offers:

• A structured environment without pressure
• A creative space without chaos
• A program that balances discipline and enjoyment

By the end of the summer, many students leave with more than improved performance skills. They leave with friendships, confidence, and memories that stay with them long after camp ends.

A Summer That Stays With Them

For organizers, the Mission of the Program has never been simply about filling summer hours. Instead, they say the goal is to provide young people with opportunities to feel seen, heard, and supported while discovering their creative voice.

Whether through a breakthrough moment on stage, a new friendship, or the confidence to finally speak up and perform, the camp continues to serve as a meaningful space for youth development through the arts.

Enrollment Now Open