Performing arts camp for kids and teens in New Jersey
Grow as a performer in an artistic, supportive space
As an inclusive performing arts camp, we encourage campers to try new things and express themselves freely. With no pressure to perform perfectly, campers gain confidence through acting, movement, and fun, creative collaboration.
A creative home for kids and teens who love the stage
Appel Farm has been a trusted name in arts summer camp programs for over 65 years. What started as a small farm with a few passionate teaching artists has grown into a multidisciplinary arts center serving thousands of young people across the region.
As a nonprofit visual and performing arts center summer camp, we focus on community-building, creative growth, and personal discovery. Campers return year after year, not just for the performances, but for the friendships, the freedom to be themselves, and the joyful, process-based learning that defines the Appel Farm experience.
We serve kids ages 8-16, with a Counselor in Training (CIT) Program for teens up to 17. No matter their age or experience, our performers walk away with more confidence and unforgettable memories with great friends.
A supportive space for performers to shine
Great performances start with feeling safe, supported, and encouraged. At Appel Farm, we create an environment where young performers can take creative risks, try new roles, and grow with confidence. Everything here is intentionally set up to help kids feel comfortable being themselves while doing what they love!
An LGBTQ+-friendly, gender-inclusive performing arts community
We believe every young artist deserves a space where they feel seen, safe, and celebrated. Appel Farm is a gender-inclusive performing arts camp that offers flexible housing options, private bathrooms, and a culture grounded in empathy and respect.
Our staff is well-versed in Restorative Practices, Collaborative Problem-Solving, and Mental Health First Aid. This way, campers feel supported in every moment, be it onstage, in the bunks, and everywhere in between.
A campus designed for creativity, rehearsal, and performance
Our 110-acre campus in rural South Jersey is a dream for young performers.
We have:
- A fully equipped 200-seat indoor theater
- Two outdoor stages under the trees
- Light and sound booths for hands-on tech training
- Dedicated rehearsal spaces for dance, theater, and ensemble work
- Costume and prop shops
Walk the stages, studios, rehearsal rooms, and indoor and outdoor performance spaces where confidence and creativity take center stage. Visit our musical camp virtually or in person today!
Our overnight performing arts camp program structure
Every day at Appel Farm is structured to give campers a balance of focused learning and creative freedom. Below is a quick look at how it works:
- Each camper chooses a Major before camp begins, and this becomes their core area of interest. Afterward, they spend each morning building skills and working closely with expert teaching artists.
- For many kids, that means selecting Theater Performance, Dance, or Technical Theater as their Major. It’s a chance to go deep, rehearse regularly, and work toward performances with a consistent group.
- In the afternoon, campers choose two Minors from a wide range of arts and recreation classes. These could be additional performing arts like music, or something completely different like photography or environmental arts. It’s a great way to explore and recharge while staying creatively engaged.
- Each day also includes Free Choice time, evening activities, and special events like Friday Night Concerts, beach trips, and guest artist workshops.
- Campers can stay for 2-week or 4-week sessions, and every week includes performance opportunities.
Step into a world of performance and artistic discovery
Every day invites campers to try new forms of performance, build skills, and express themselves with confidence.
Theater performance
Our theater camp for kids is built for beginners and returning actors alike. Campers work on character development, ensemble-building, improvisation, and scene study, all in a space that values growth over perfection.
Casting is non-competitive, and every camper has the chance to perform in full-scale productions!
We produce musicals, comedies, dramas, new works, and world premieres. campers also share their work in variety shows and camp-wide events.
Technical theater
Our technical theater program is perfect for campers who love to build, tinker, design, or think creatively behind the scenes. With hands-on training in lighting, sound design, scenic construction, costume design, and props, campers become the backbone of every performance.
They might spend the morning designing a lighting scheme, then head to the woodshop to build a set piece, and end the day backstage, calling cues for a show. Every class includes tool safety and design theory, and projects are driven by fun productions happening on campus.
Dance
Our dance camp for kids focuses on technique, expression, and ensemble connection.
Campers train in modern, contemporary, hip hop, and other movement styles in our large studio space, with room for beginner dancers to feel comfortable and more experienced dancers to be challenged.
We offer differentiated instruction in all classes, making this a beginner-friendly performing arts camp that still supports advanced growth.
Train with artists who know the stage inside and out
Our teaching artists bring passion and a deep belief in every camper’s potential. They’re professional performers, directors, designers, and choreographers who love sharing their craft with the next generation.
At Appel Farm, your child will:
- Learn from working theater professionals who teach with empathy and enthusiasm
- Get personalized attention in small, process-based classes
- Receive feedback that builds confidence and skills
- Collaborate with peers under the guidance of real-world artists
- Be seen, heard, and celebrated every step of the way
Experience a true ensemble experience
Theater is a team sport. So is camp. And at Appel Farm, that spirit of ensemble is everywhere! When you join us, you can expect:
- Collaboration over competition: Kids build shows together throughout their stay at camp, and every voice matters.
- Learning to lead and support: Campers learn how to direct scenes, help backstage, encourage each other, and take responsibility for the group’s success.
- Trust-building through performance: Rehearsals become spaces of trust and shared excitement. After all, performances are only as great as the connection between the performers!
- Shared goals, shared success: Every cast, crew, and ensemble becomes a team. They celebrate their wins together and learn together when things don’t go as planned.
Testimonials
Check out our camp dates, rates, and scholarship program (2026)
We want families to have clear, straightforward information as they plan ahead. Below you’ll find session dates, tuition options, and details about financial aid for Summer 2026 at Appel Farm Arts Camp.
Appel Farm summer 2026 camp dates
Appel Farm Arts Camp offers both two-week and four-week sessions, giving families flexibility based on their child’s interests, schedule, and readiness for time away from home.
Many families choose a two-week session as an introduction to camp, while others opt for the four-week experience to allow campers more time to grow creatively, build friendships, and fully immerse themselves in the arts-focused camp community.
Two-week sessions
- July 5 – July 18, 2026
- July 19 – August 1, 2026
Four-week session
- July 5 – August 1, 2026
Appel Farm summer 2026 tuition rates
| Session Length | Supported Rate | True Cost Rate | Sustaining Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Weeks | $3,750 | $4,000 | $4,250 |
| 4 Weeks | $6,500 | $6,750 | $7,000 |
- Supported rate: A partially subsidized option for families who need additional flexibility. This rate does not reflect the full cost of operating our summer camp programs.
- True cost rate: Reflects the actual cost of camp, including facilities, program materials, and equitable pay for staff.
- Sustaining rate: Includes a tax-deductible donation that helps support scholarships for families who would otherwise be unable to attend.
Appel Farm summer camp scholarships and financial aid
Appel Farm Arts Camp welcomes young people who may not otherwise have the resources to attend summer camp. We believe that creativity, community, and belonging should be accessible to all!
As you plan for summer 2026, we encourage families to take a look at the tuition options above and choose the rate that best fits their situation. If one of the listed rates works for your family, selecting that option helps us reserve scholarship support for families who need it most.
Important scholarship details to know before applying:
- Scholarships are available for two-week sessions only
- If your camper would like to attend for four weeks, you are welcome to register and pay the difference in tuition
Scholarship awards are made on a rolling basis- First round of decisions: February 2026
- Final decisions: April 2026
- All awards depend on available funding from Appel Farm and our partners
Discover what makes Appel Farm special
Explore programs, dates, and what makes Appel Farm such a unique summer experience—or talk directly with our team!
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is a performing arts program?
A performing arts program gives kids hands‑on experience in creative disciplines like acting, theater, dance, and technical production. At Appel Farm, our performing arts program focuses on learning through doing. Campers rehearse, collaborate, and perform while building confidence, creativity, and teamwork skills in a supportive, non‑competitive environment.
Is this performing arts camp good for beginners, or only experienced performers?
Appel Farm is designed for both beginners and experienced performers. Our teaching artists meet kids where they are, offering differentiated instruction that supports first‑time actors and dancers just as much as seasoned performers. That’s because we believe that curiosity and willingness to try matter more than experience!
What kinds of performances do campers participate in?
Campers take part in a wide range of performances throughout each session, including plays, musicals, dance showcases, and informal variety shows. Performances happen on our indoor stage, outdoor stages, and sometimes in unexpected places around camp. Additionally, campers have multiple chances each week to share their work in a low‑pressure, encouraging setting.
How safe is an overnight performing arts camp?
Safety is a top priority at Appel Farm. We’re a fully supervised overnight camp with trained staff, on‑site nurses, and a health center staffed 24 hours a day. Our team is trained in mental health first aid, restorative practices, and collaborative problem-solving, helping create a space that supports both physical and emotional well-being.
Can my child focus on performing arts while still trying other activities?
Yes! Campers choose a performing arts Major, like Theater Performance, Dance, or Technical Theater for focused daily instruction, and then explore other interests through afternoon Minors. This structure allows kids to go deep in performance while still enjoying music, visual arts, outdoor activities, and free choice time.