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Conservatory for the Performing and Technical Arts

Consisting of year-round in-depth theatrical educational opportunities for ages 7-99

Fall Camp 2026

Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hip Hippo and, of course, those hilarious, plotting penguins as they bound onto your stage in the musical adventure of a lifetime.  Based on the smash DreamWorks animated motion picture, Madagascar – A Musical Adventure JR. follows all of your favorite crack-a-lackin’ friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar.

Alex the lion is the king of the urban jungle, the main attraction at New York’s Central Park Zoo. He and his best friends — Marty the zebra, Melman the giraffe and Gloria the hippo — have spent their whole lives in blissful captivity before an admiring public and with regular meals provided for them. Not content to leave well enough alone, Marty lets his curiosity get the better of him and makes his escape — with the help of some prodigious penguins — to explore the world.  

This energetic youth production explores themes of curiosity, courage, and self-discovery. Performed by the talented students in our Youth Education Program, this 45-60 minute show is a joyful showcase of rising young performers and the magic that happens when kids step into the spotlight.

Your applause means the world—come support the next generation of performers as they bring Madagascar Kids to life!

REGISTER NOW!
  • The Fall Program begins on September 12, 2026.
  • The program is for youth ages 7-17.
  • The program runs on Saturdays from 9 AM-12 PM.
  • Final Performance: December 12, 2026 11 AM (45-60 minute fully staged production of Madagascar Kids) All attendees will need to purchase a ticket.
  • The cost of the program is $500.
  • A $50 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your child’s spot.
  • Camp fees must be paid in full no later than two weeks prior to the start of the program.
  • Scholarships are available. Click the link below to download the application.
Camp Scholarship Application Fall 2026Download

Winter Camp 2027

Camp Broadway Guys & Dolls

Step into the spotlight this winter with our exciting Camp Broadway Guys & Dolls theatre camp designed especially for young performers! Campers ages 7-17 will dive into the world of musical theatre as they rehearse, create, and perform Guys & Dolls—a charming and energetic adaptation of the Broadway classic.

Continue your theatrical journey with Camp Broadway as students refine acting, vocal, and movement skills in a creative, supportive environment while working with professional directors, choreographers, and music instructors.
* Professional instruction in acting, singing, movement, and stagecraft
* Character development, ensemble building, and audition techniques
* Final Performance: May 8, 2027 11 AM (30–45 minute Camp Broadway Edition production)

The cost of the camp is $500
Camp meets Saturdays 9 AM-12 PM
Camp starts January 23, 2027

REGISTER NOW!

Youth Education

Youth Education consists of training in singing, dancing, acting and technical design for ages 7-17. Program includes learning how to audition, rehearsals, and a minimum of two full-staged performances. Directed by our professional teaching artists and musical directors. One of the primary goals is to build a community of young performers and provide a safe environment for children to develop teamwork skills and confidence in front of a live audience. One show of each camp is provided complimentary for area youth-at-risk as part of the For Kids By Kids program.

In addition to building social and communication skills overall, involvement in drama courses and performance has been shown to improve students’ self-esteem as well as their confidence in their academic abilities. The act of performing can help students and youth recognize their potential for success and improve their confidence. (American Alliance for Theatre and Education)

Upcoming Production: December 12, 2026
Madagascar Kids (On Sale Now!)

DraMature

dramature performing troupe

DraMature is a performing troupe of actors ages 55 and over. Troupe members are committed to serving the diverse culture of Manatee/Sarasota counties seniors and the community at large by presenting live theatrical programs that will entertain, inspire, and educate audiences while showcasing its members’ talents and promoting a more positive image of older adults. They perform in two bi-annually cabaret style productions and provide numerous community outreach programs in a variety of venues.

Theater has a profound positive impact on health and well-being and the benefits of involvement are apparent almost immediately.. Studies have shown decreased anxiety and loneliness, increased sense of value and purpose, and other emotional benefits including fun, happiness, and a sense of freeing of the imagination. Cognitive benefits include improvements in memory, word generation, and comprehension and problem solving through memorizing scripted lines and stage direction. Lung capacity is increased through the breath control involved in blocking exercises and singing and through the physical exertion of movement, muscle strength and flexibility are improved.

Upcoming Production: March 31, 2027
The Drowsy Chaperone Sr. (On Sale Now!)

About

Technical/Theatre Management Internship

The Technical/Theatre Management Internship program is designed to offer upper class high school students and college/university enrolled students with a pre-professional experience in technical design (lighting, costume or scenic) or theatre administration. High school students who are highly involved in drama demonstrate an elevated self-concept over those who are not involved.

Accessibility

The Manatee Performing Arts Center strives to make its program, performances, and facilities accessible to everyone and adheres to all federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and guidelines with respect to providing reasonable accommodations as required to afford equal opportunity to qualified individuals with disabilities.