DREAM Summerstock VTC Intensive

Elmer, NJ

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About DREAM Summerstock VTC Intensive

Daily schedule — a typical day at Summerstock

Wake-up Call 7:30 am · Breakfast 8:00 am · Morning Rehearsals 8:45 am – 12:30 pm · Lunch 12:30 pm · Free Period 1:00–3:00 pm (Summerstock store open, games, swimming, boating, archery, hiking, arts & crafts) · Workshops 3:35–5 pm (Songwriting, Shakespeare, Musical Theater Dance, Riffing, Character Analysis, Rock the Runway, Hip Hop, Belting for Broadway, Tap, 10-minute Musicals, and more) · Dinner 5:00–5:45 pm · Evening Rehearsals 6:00–9:00 pm · Snack Bar & Store 9:00–9:30 pm · Campfire 9:30–10 pm · Lights out 11:00 pm.

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Elmer, NJ 08318Map of the Elmer, NJ area. The camp’s exact location isn’t confirmed; check directions with the camp.Open map ↗© OpenStreetMap contributors

At a glance

Address: Elmer, NJ 08318
Camp type: Overnight camp
Founded: 2015
Ages: 12–19

Activities

Waterfront

Swimming

Land Sports

Tennis
Basketball
Archery
Volleyball

Arts & Creative

Theater
Dance

Outdoor Adventure

Hiking

More activities

boating
campfire nights
dance parties
gaga
movie nights

Clues to fit

Camper quote — belonging and inclusion

"One of my favorite things about camp was how everyone got along. In my school, everyone sits for lunch with people who look like them and do the same things as them. At camp, everyone loved everyone and it didn't matter what you looked like or what town you came from."

Explore on the camp’s websiteCamper quote — belonging and inclusion

Community and social-emotional growth beyond the stage

Beyond the stage, students build social and emotional skills through group activities, outdoor adventures, and community-building experiences. Swimming, outdoor activities, campfires, and more help foster friendships and resilience, creating a supportive environment where students can truly thrive, feeling their most comfortable. Our guidance counseling staff keep a close eye on campers, supporting them socially and emotionally along the way.

Explore on the camp’s websiteCommunity and social-emotional growth beyond the stage

Setting — location at Elmer, NJ; air-conditioned facilities

DREAM Summerstock VTC Intensive takes place in Elmer, NJ. The new location provides more performance, rehearsal, relaxation, sleeping, and outdoor space, with air-conditioning in ALL cabins and facilities, and a dedicated performing arts campus with access to outdoor activities, workshops, and nature.

Explore on the camp’s websiteSetting — location at Elmer, NJ; air-conditioned facilities

Traditions & shared moments

Camper quote — friendship from the first campfire

"When I came to camp, I didn't know what to expect. From the first minute, everyone was so friendly and supportive. By the end of the first campfire, I had made friends."

Explore on the camp’s websiteCamper quote — friendship from the first campfire

Independence, growth & leadership

Camper quote — confidence and authentic self onstage and off

"I definitely found a lot more confidence in myself at Summerstock, especially in the Beyonce and Vogue workshops and the 10 Minute Play Festival." "I found that I was able to get out of my head and be my authentic self, onstage and off." "Summerstock taught me how much I can do on my own."

Explore on the camp’s websiteCamper quote — confidence and authentic self onstage and off

Camper quote — skill growth and counselor support

"The counselors foster a really healthy environment for us to share and learn from each other." "I absolutely feel that my skill set was sharpened during camp." "Every year after camp I feel like my skill set has been sharpened." "My choreographer helped me get comfortable and pushed me to try new things and never sell myself short."

Explore on the camp’s websiteCamper quote — skill growth and counselor support

Programs & camp life

Full curriculum — workshops and activities offered

During two enriching and rigorous weeks, campers are immersed in a multifaceted curriculum encompassing vocal training, acting techniques, dance instruction, creative exploration, and backstage arts. Led by master instructors, campers rehearse for fully produced shows performed the last weekend of Summerstock, and engage in workshops, including songwriting, Shakespearean performance, musical theater dance, character analysis, the art of belting for Broadway, riffs and runs, and college prep.

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Outdoor activities and evening programming

In addition to honing artistic skills, campers participate in outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, and sports such as gaga, tennis, or volleyball, fostering camaraderie and community. At night, we have lively campfire gatherings, movie and karaoke nights, and spirited dance parties, providing a holistic and memorable summer experience that merges the great outdoors with art and expression.

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For parents & families

Cabin arrangements — size and supervision

Campers will stay in air-conditioned cabins with only 10 campers per cabin. Counselors are housed within every room to provide immediate supervision and support, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for all. These arrangements create a spacious, well-monitored, and inclusive living space that fosters camaraderie while also accommodating individual needs.

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Dining — Chef in Residence Mama June and Soul Food Sundays

Indulge in a delightful culinary journey with three well-balanced meals prepared daily by our Chef in Residence, Mama June! Renowned for her Soul Food Sundays featuring mouthwatering delights like Mac & Cheese, Fried Chicken, Collard Greens, and more, Mama June brings a touch of home to our dining experience. We believe that sharing a delicious meal is a powerful way for campers to connect and forge lasting friendships.

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Food allergies and dietary restrictions

We work closely with families to accommodate all dietary needs and food allergies. Our camp kitchen staff ensures that meals are safe and enjoyable for everyone.

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Homesickness — how VTC handles it and advice for parents

Homesickness can strike artists and staff of all ages and experience levels. Like most 'sicknesses,' it usually disappears by itself within a few days, but may persist longer. Since all problems are individual, we evaluate each situation separately and plan the appropriate response. Reassure your child that homesickness is not abnormal and is not voluntary. Almost all children (and adults) experience a degree of homesickness at some moment. When communicating with your child, ask about friends and activities. Encourage them to speak with counselors. If you anticipate a severe separation problem please let us know so we can make a plan together.

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