More than Skits and Costumes: How Performing at Camp Fuels Growth
You know you are at overnight summer camp when the costumes come out and the skits start … skitting? And while performing at camp is super fun, there is something deeper happening. Campers who perform loosely-produced skits in front of groups are gaining confidence, learning how to roll with mistakes, and understanding how being authentic with others (instead of overpolished presentations) is the best way to connect.
At Camp Jeanne d’Arc we provide ample opportunity for campers to perform through cabin songs and chants, paperbag skits, theater acts, “Wacky Wednesday” bits, morning talks, and more. And often, campers who wouldn’t expect to be thriving in front of a crowd, are doing just that. So what is it about overnight camp that sets campers up for being confident and comfortable in the limelight?
Why Camp Skits Fuel Growth
Supportive environment. The inclusive and nurturing culture at Camp Jeanne d’Arc creates an atmosphere where no matter what happens in front of the group, campers are applauded for their efforts and supported. The fear of talking or performing for others is a lot less daunting when you know there won’t be girls snickering, giggling, or pointing if things don’t go right. Campers at Camp Jeanne d’Arc understand that they are there to raise each other up – it’s who we are!
Break out of old roles. Some kids fall into expected roles in their home and school lives – they are the artist, or the athlete, or the book worm. They might not be considered a performer or public speaker and therefore, they just don’t try. But at Camp, campers can reinvent themselves and be the kid who sings showtunes in front of the crowd or shares a thoughtful reflection with the camp community after breakfast. This freedom invites campers to be anything they want!
It doesn’t need to be perfect, just genuine. Forgot the lines? Joke fell flat? Out of tune? No worries! The crowd at Camp isn’t expecting a high-end performance. But they do appreciate when a mixed up script leads to giggles or when an out-of-tune ensemble brings everyone to their feet. Why? Because we all recognize authentic joy–when speeches, songs, jokes, no matter how polished, prompt the community to feel true happiness.
Role Models. Camp is full of opportunities to have role models and to be role models. Younger campers often admire the older campers who are running front-and-center in the funny skits or showcasing their singing voice. And when they become the older campers, these campers relish the chance to have the younger campers look up to them. This organic cycle makes it easier for even the shyest of campers to step into roles in front of the camp community.
Participation is the Key
Practice makes progress, right? If you never speak in front of a crowd, you’ll never become comfortable. That’s what is great about Camp – there are so many chances to practice performing for others. And when the environment isn’t hung up on perfection, it’s easier to put yourself out there. Tina Payne Bryson, coauthor (with Dan Siegel) of the bestselling The Whole-Brain Child, refers to the concept of a “secure base” – a system of supports that allows for kids to take risks in an environment where they feel safe.
How does this transfer to life at home? Here is a real life example:
There is a CJDA camper, we’ll call Jane. She is pretty shy at home. Does well in school, but class participation is not great. She has never run for student council or had a lead in the play. During her third summer at camp, she becomes a camper who is looked up to by the younger campers. She starts leading songs at mealtime and even gives a reflection speech.
As she re-enters home life, there’s a new confidence about her. When she’s playing soccer, a teammate scores her first goal. Jane starts a chant celebrating the teammate. At practice, when the team gathers, Jane gives a shout out to a steady defender. Her coach notices and begins relying on Jane for gathering the team and relaying messages. Jane has slowly stepped into a leadership role!
Authenticity Trumps All
Performing at Camp is sometimes wacky, sometimes unscripted, and sometimes a complete disaster. But most of the time it’s authentic. Songs are sung for the joy of it and dances danced because it feels good! Authenticity while in front of a crowd is the key to connection. Camp Jeanne d’Arc, as well as many other overnight camps, provides campers the opportunities to be their true selves. And as campers gain confidence they become comfortable being their true selves in front of a crowd too.
Discover the Leader Within
So the next time you see a group of campers enthusiastically putting on a skit that might be a little rough around the edges, remember that you’re witnessing more than just a performance. You’re seeing the powerful growth that happens when young people are given a safe, supportive space to step outside their comfort zones, embrace their true selves, and discover the leader within.