Create, build, and run the show at Appel Farm’s technical theater summer program!
Learn how theater magic happens behind the scenes!
If your kiddo is curious about what happens behind the curtain, technical theater might be exactly where they belong. At Appel Farm, our Technical Theater program gives campers ages 8 to 16 the chance to work with lighting instruments, sound equipment, tools, and design materials on our South Jersey campus. After all, backstage work is just as creative and meaningful as what happens under the spotlight!
A creative community that builds the show together
Appel Farm Arts and Music Center has been creating arts experiences in South Jersey for decades. We are a nonprofit arts center with a simple belief: creativity belongs to everyone! Art making is not a luxury here, but rather, it’s part of how we build confidence and community.
Technical theater plays a powerful role in that mission. Behind every great performance is a team of thoughtful designers and problem solvers. Our campers learn that lighting can shift the mood of a scene in seconds, a well-built set can transport an audience somewhere new, and a clean sound mix can make a huge impact on the audience.
Come as you are, create as you wish!
Appel Farm is a place where kiddos can be themselves! We have a long history of social justice advocacy in arts education, and today we keep pushing forward with inclusive practices and community standards that put respect and care first.
We are LGBTQ+ friendly! Campers can choose from gender-inclusive housing options in their bunk area, so campers are welcome in any bunk where they feel most comfortable. Appel Farm works to create a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment. Our staff is trained in Mental Health First Aid, and our daily culture is shaped by restorative practices. You can rest assured that our staff focuses on listening and healthy communication.
Step into our creative playground in South Jersey
Our campus sits on 110 acres of farmland! There is space to build, test ideas, and move between rehearsal halls, workshops, and performance venues. Technical theater campers spend time in dedicated shop areas learning scenic construction basics and workshop safety, while also practicing audio engineering nd lighting design for theater.
And of course, after classes, campers can relax in their modern, air-conditioned bunks, or gather for evening performances. Needless to say, life at Appel Farm feels creative from morning to night!
Step into the world behind the curtain and see our production spaces in action! Get a glimpse of where creativity comes to life and imagine what it’s like to be part of the magic. You can explore camp virtually from wherever you are or join us for an in-person tour to experience the energy firsthand.
How our Technical Theater Major works
Technical theater is offered as a focused Major at Appel Farm, specifically:
Our Technical Theater campers also get the opportunity to run several different types of shows. Lighting and sound campers operate the booth for concerts, theater productions, dance performances, and creative writing showcases, gaining hands-on experience telling stories through multiple art forms. They also serve as stage crew for these events, making them an essential part of how our camp brings the arts to life!
Campers can also choose Minors in stage and special effects makeup and general tech for the full technical theater experience!
Each morning, Monday through Saturday, there’s a dedicated time for campers to attend their Majors class. In the afternoon, they’ll take two Minors (could be technical theater or other areas), then a Free Choice period. That means a camper can spend the morning learning lighting board operation, then take a dance minor, then do photography, then end the day with a special evening activity with friends.
On Sundays, campers take a break from the usual schedule and can hang out with friends throughout the day. Beach Day is also a major tradition here, and it is a true camp highlight for both two-week and four-week campers!
Check out our camp dates, rates, and scholarship program (2026)
Thinking about sending your kid to camp to learn about technical theater? 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.
Testimonials
Technical theater at Appel Farm gives kiddos the chance to step behind the scenes, take real responsibility, and see their hard work shine under stage lights. Hear directly from past campers and families about their experience at camp and what made their summer so meaningful:
You’ll learn theater tech skills you can use anywhere!
Technical theater has a lot of ins and outs, and that’s part of what makes it so fun. Campers get a broad base across core areas, then plenty of time to practice and specialize. They learn how to solve problems quickly, how to communicate clearly, and how to keep production safe and organized. They also learn that backstage work is creative work.
These are priceless skills they can take with them as they grow older!
Stage Management
Campers learn how to keep a production organized and moving. They practice tracking cues, communicating clearly with performers and designers, and thinking a few steps ahead. Stage management builds leadership and calm decision-making. It feels good to be the person who helps everything run smoothly!
Theatrical Design & Construction
Let’s get building! Campers take part in set design for theater and scenic design decisions that support a story. They sketch ideas, talk through what is realistic for the space and timeline, plan for everything, and then start building.
Stage Crew
Being on crew means being part of the action. Campers learn how to shift scenery, handle lighting and sound, manage props, and support quick changes backstage. Timing matters, and so does teamwork! Everyone depends on each other, but it’s a rewarding and fast-paced experience.
Costume Design
Costume design lets campers think about character from the outside in. They help select, organize, and sometimes modify pieces that reflect personality and the story. It is creative, hands-on work that adds depth and detail to every performance.
Learn from experienced theater professionals
Our instructors are working artists and experienced educators who know how to teach kids and teens. You can count on them because:
- They bring deep knowledge of live production technology, and they know how to make learning feel super fun and doable.
- We meet campers where they’re at! For example, a beginner can get step-by-step support, while a returning camper can take on a bigger build, support a crew role, or lead a cue sequence.
- This is also a place where parents and caregivers can feel confident about supervision and safety. Staff training includes Mental Health First Aid, and our culture is grounded in restorative practices.
See what’s possible behind the scenes!
Take a closer look at our technical theater Majors and Minors, session dates, and what sets our backstage program apart. Or reach out and talk with our team. We are happy to answer questions and help you decide if this is the right fit for your camper!
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is technical theater?
Technical theater is the behind-the-scenes work that makes a performance possible. It includes lighting, sound, scenic construction, props, costumes, makeup, and stage management. At Appel Farm, campers learn these areas through guided projects and fun production work!
Do campers need experience to join a technical theater program?
No. This program welcomes beginners and returning campers. We teach the basics clearly, and we offer more advanced options for campers who are ready to take on bigger projects. It works well for theater production for beginners and for campers who already love tech.
What ages can join the Technical Theater Major?
Technical Theater is available for campers ages 8 to 16 during our two-week and four-week overnight sessions!
Is the technical theater program only for kids who want to work in theater later?
Not at all! Some campers do become interested in production portfolio building or performing arts technical training for the future, but others just love creating, building, and collaborating. The skills are valuable either way.
How do we sign up for or visit your Technical Theater program?
To sign up for a two-week or four-week overnight summer camp session, visit our access portal.
If you’re new (hello and welcome!), please create a new account.
For returning families, you may use the credentials you used previously.
You can also schedule a tour or join a live virtual open house to learn more about the program, meet staff, and see if this backstage theater camp is the right fit for your camper.