FPST To Proceed With Performing Arts Camps
By James Walling
Jennifer Fewer with the Fort Peck Summer Theatre told the Northern Plains Independent that the 2020 Performing Arts Camp is on track to continue as scheduled. She said the company is carefully monitoring updated guidelines and working closing with health department authorities.
“FPST feels confident in properly navigating the obstacles set by COVID-19,” said Fewer. “As always, the safety and health of each camp will be a priority.”
Students at FPST camps are exposed to a comprehensive theatre experience, with an array of classes. In addition to performance focused classes, the professional instructors teach everything from playwriting to technical design. The camps provide a balance between creative thinking, education and teamwork through the arts.
Megan Wiltshire, a long-time FPST director/ choreographer/performer/ designer, returns as Performing Arts Camp director. She has toured internationally as an actor and director with Missoula Children’s Theatre and just completed an intensive year as the director of dance at On Center Performing Arts in Missoula.
“Now is the time to register,” said Fewer, “as FPST is hoping for a minimum of 40 campers in order to operate as planned.”
Camp runs Aug. 4-13 and culminates in a showcase performance on Thursday, Aug. 13, at 7 p.m. Scholarship opportunities are also available.
Said Fewer, the FPST season opener, The Sunshine Boys, features rivalry, memories and lots of laughs when a former vaudeville team grudgingly re-unites for a television special. Neal Lewing, who was a member of the original FPST company 51 seasons ago, returns to direct and star in the classic Neil Simon comedy. The show is produced in collaboration with Port Polson Players, where it was performed last season. Along with Lewing in the Matthau role, it stars Louis Jepson, Mike Gillpatrick, K.C. Isaman and Karen Lewing. Scenic design is by Cole Bakke, with lighting by Spencer Perry.
Performances are July 3-12; Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 4 p.m.
Following The Sunshine Boys, the 2020 season continues with Ed Asner in God Help Us, July 17-19; The Big Zany Family Friendly Variety Hour (different theme each week), July 24–Aug. 9; Love Letters, Aug. 14-16 and Wait Until Dark, Aug. 21-Sept. 6.
For more information, call 406-526-9943 or visit the online box office at fortpecktheatre. org.
FPST Arts Camp 2019
Assembled participants in the 2019 FPST Performing Arts Camps pose in front of the theatre in Fort Peck
following last year’s camp.
(Submitted photo)
