Earn your spots this summer in this stage adaptation of a Disney classic!
Curtain Up Camp: 101 Dalmatians KIDS is a full-day Kansas City musical theater summer camp for ages 8-14. This KC metro theater camp in Leawood helps young performers build acting, vocal, and dance skills while making new friends!
Campers will spend the week exploring acting, singing, and dancing through the story of 101 Dalmatians, bringing Pongo, Perdita, and even Cruella De Vil to life on stage. Campers will learn the iconic songs straight from the movie while developing their performance skills. The week wraps up with an exciting showcase where campers will perform the full stage adaptation for friends and family.
All About 101 Dalmatians KIDS
Pet owners, Roger and Anita, live happily in London with their Dalmatians, Pongo and Perdita, stalwart dogs devoted to raising their puppies. Everything is quiet until Anita’s former classmate, the monstrous Cruella De Vil, plots to steal the puppies for her new fur coat. The Dalmatians rally all the dogs of London for a daring rescue of the puppies from Cruella and her bumbling henchmen.
NOTE: This camp is now full. You can join the waitlist HERE. Call 913-681-3318 if you have questions!
We are so glad you are a part of this camp! On the first day, we will hold auditions for all students. These help the directors place everyone in the best role for the show. Some students will have parts, lines and/or solos, while others may be in larger group roles. All roles are important in bringing the show together. Everyone will be cast in the show!
What age does my student need to be to attend this camp?
101 Dalmatians KIDS is for students ages 8-14!
What happens on the first day of theater summer camp?
Campers will be greeted by camp staff and are encouraged to join in high energy group games. Parents will be introduced to our Show Coordinator and given some important information regarding the week.
The first day, we take some time to introduce the campers to their leaders and make them feel welcomed and excited to be at camp, as well as explain behavior expectations.
On the first day, campers can participate in an optional audition for roles in the show. THIS AUDITION IS NOT REQUIRED. Students who opt to not audition will still have plenty of performance opportunities as part of the show’s ensemble. Following the audition, students will begin to learn all of the singing, dancing, and acting that make up the performance.
In the morning, we also have a short snack time, please send your camper with a healthy snack. Campers then come together at midday for lunch, games, & character building activities.
What if my child is upset on the first day of camp? Can I stay with them?
We find that at times, especially for younger campers, the first day can be a bit overwhelming. There are numerous people playing games with fun loud music playing. However, our staff is equipped to look out for children who may need encouragement to participate.
Staff may come over and try to engage your child in opening activities like dances or games or introduce them to other campers. Parents are welcome to stay through opening activities, but once campers break into groups, we’ve found that mom or dad’s presence sometimes makes a more difficult emotional break. Almost always, once campers see their classmates having a blast–they want to join in too! Please be assured that if your child is overly upset for an extended period of time, we will contact you.
How will I know who is in charge?
Our leadership will be wearing a First Act summer camp staff shirt.
What does my child bring to theater summer camp?
Full-Day campers will need to bring a healthy snack, sack lunch, and a water bottle.
We also ask that they bring their scripts or any materials provided by staff back to camp, so they can continue to use them throughout the workshops.
What if my child doesn’t know anyone?
Many of our campers are new to First Act Theatre Arts. We encourage a very friendly and welcoming atmosphere where kids will meet new friends. We also have awesome, energetic teen assistants who can assist in easing the transition.
What should my child wear to theater summer camp?
We encourage comfortable dance and play-friendly clothing each day. Please encourage your kids to wear shoes with a back of some kind (please no flip flops). Tennis shoes are preferred.
How do you handle allergies?
Please let us know of allergies on your medical release form. We will also have you fill out our Allergy Action Plan which can be found on our forms page. Our staff will be alerted to the allergy and maintain a high level of awareness. Medication can be left with directions with the Show Coordinator.
Do you offer any discounts for Curtain Up camps?
Use code SUMMER26 for a $10 discount on Curtain Up Camps if paid in full before the Early Bird deadline (March 4th, 2026).
Can I apply for a scholarship for Curtain Up camp?
Yes! You can visit our Scholarships page to learn more.
If you have questions about our Scholarships or if you are interested in setting up a payment plan, contact Chrissi Edwards at chrissi@firstactkc.org or 913-681-3318.
What is your cancellation/refund policy?
You may receive a full refund of your registration fee (less a $25 processing fee) up to two weeks before the first day of camp. If you decide to withdraw from a camp less than two weeks before the first day of camp, we can offer you a credit towards a future First Act class or camp.
Unfortunately, we cannot offer any credits/refunds/make-ups/pro-rated fees for missed days of camp. And, we will always be happy to switch you to a different week of camp at no cost if you need to swap weeks!
Can I sign up on the first day of camp?
You can walk up and sign up at camp. However, many of our camps fill up so we encourage early registration.
What about supervision?
Your child’s safety is our utmost concern. Each person hired by First Act has completed a background check, interview, and camp staff training. In addition to the adult camp artistic team and the teen assistants, there is also an adult Show Coordinator for every camp.
Who do I contact in case of emergency during camp?
You will be provided a contact cell number of your area’s Show Coordinator in case of an emergency.
Do you have to be a Christian to come to First Act?
No. First Act Theatre Arts holds to Christian values of family, community, leadership, and positive encouragement. We welcome all kids of varying faiths, backgrounds, and beliefs.
What if my child has a disability?
First Act Theatre Arts openly welcomes children with disabilities. Further, First Act proudly offers our HEART program (Helping to Encourage Awareness and Recognition in Theatre). Please let us know what we can do to help! Before camp you will want to fill out the HEART application and camp support form. First Act will work with you to assist your child. Please give us as much information as possible so we can make your child’s experience successful.
To see if your child qualifies for a new family scholarship, please reach out to our HEART coordinator, Josie Strickler, at heart@firstactkc.org.
