SUMMER THEATER CAMPS
The annual Summer Theater Workshop offered by the Smyrna Opera House is designed for students ranging in age from 7 to 19 years old. The workshop spans a two-week or three-week period each summer, bringing children together who have an avid interest in improving their theater skills while learning new ones!
The camp's focus on the basics of acting will culminate in a performance on the final two days in which all students are equally cast. Auditions will be early on the first day of every camp, and announced at lunch the same day. Actors are asked to sing a song from the musical. We highly encourage students to familiarize themselves with the show prior to camp.
The Smyrna Opera House Summer Theater Workshop's goal is to bring children together who love the performing arts, hone their theatrical skills, culturally enrich them, and ensure each student has a great deal of fun along the way!
In the circumstance that spots sell out, you can request to be put on the wait list at [email protected]. Please provide your name, show interest, and your best form of contact. If we reach out to you about an open spot and do not hear back within 48 hours, we will assume you are no longer interested and will be taken off our wait list.
WILLY WONKA JR.
June 16th- June 28th
Ages 7-16 years | $550
Roald Dahl's Willy Wonka JR. follows enigmatic candy manufacturer Willy Wonka as he stages a contest by hiding golden tickets in five of his scrumptious candy bars. Whomever comes up with these tickets will win a free tour of the Wonka factory, as well as a lifetime supply of candy. Four of the five winning children are insufferable brats, but the fifth is a likeable young lad named Charlie Bucket, who takes the tour in the company of his equally amiable grandfather. The children must learn to follow Mr. Wonka's rules in the factory — or suffer the consequences.
REGISTER HERE
Footloose
July 14th - August 2nd
Ages 12-19 years | $550
When Ren and his mother move from Chicago to a small farming town, he is prepared for the inevitable adjustment period at his new high school. But he’s not prepared for the rigorous local edicts, including a ban on dancing instituted by the local preacher, who is determined to exercise control over the town’s youth. When the reverend’s rebellious daughter sets her sights on Ren, her roughneck boyfriend tries to sabotage Ren’s reputation, with many of the locals eager to believe the worst about the new kid. The heartfelt story that emerges pins a father longing for the son he lost against a young man aching for the father who walked out on him.
REGISTRATION
Children's Theater Workshop 2025 Instructors
Willy Wonka Jr. Director: Lennon Heitz
Lennon Heitz is a passionate theater professional with a diverse background in performing, directing, choreography, and design. She began her theater journey at the age of 9 and has been a staple in children's theater since 2018, taking on roles such as choreographer, director, costume designer, and tech specialist. In 2022, Lennon expanded her reach by founding her own children's entertainment business. Her directorial debut, 'Frozen Jr.', at the Delaware Children’s Theater sparked her interest in directing. Her most recent directorial credit is 'Matilda' at The Smyrna Opera House.
In addition to her work on stage and behind the scenes, Lennon serves as the Artistic Director at The Smyrna Opera House, where she also oversees all marketing efforts for the theater. A former theater major with minors in dance and business, she holds the distinction of being an 18-Star International Thespian and has trained alongside Broadway stars in intensive programs. Lennon also has a strong background in vocal coaching, particularly with young students, and is a seasoned performer herself, having portrayed iconic roles such as Wednesday Addams, Miss Honey, Roxie Hart, Sally Brown, and Penny Pingleton.
Lennon is dedicated to helping young students unlock their full potential through theatrical training exercises, character studies, vocal techniques, and artistic expression. She is eager to continue inspiring and mentoring the next generation of theater artists.
Footloose Director: Brianna Barkus
Brianna Barkus is an accomplished director and educator with over a decade of experience in theater production. Currently serving as the Assistant Director of Theater at Middletown High School, Brianna has spent the past four years shaping the theatrical landscape for students and audiences alike. Notably, in November 2024,MHS was selected to be the premiere production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, marking a historic milestone to be Delaware's first school to stage the production. Her diverse portfolio includes a range of well-loved productions such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (opening March 2024 at MHS), Mary Poppins, A Wrinkle in Time, Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge, and many more.
Brianna’s passion for theater extends beyond the classroom, and she is committed to fostering the arts in her community, in September of 2024, she directed The Prom at the Everett Theater. She has also worked extensively with the Young Actor’s Guild, directing popular youth summer camp productions like Alice in Wonderland, Puffs, and The Fantastic Mr. Fox.
In addition to theater, Brianna is also a Biology and Engineering teacher at Middletown High School. She can often be found bird-watching, gardening or just hanging out with her husband and 3 kids.
Brianna's deep love of theater, her commitment to education and her dedication to producing diverse and meaningful works make her a highly respected figure in the Delaware theater community. This summer, she brings her vision and expertise to Footloose, promising an exciting, energetic, and heartfelt production for audiences of all ages.