News…

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The 2015 Performing Arts Sampler for Kids and the Historic Preservation Summer Camp are two upcoming youth programs held by the West Virginia Division of Culture and History.

The Performing Arts Sampler for Kids is a free camp where aspiring young performers can expand their knowledge and ability through classes in theater, music and dance. This four-day camp is set for June 29 – July 2 from 9 a.m. to noon. Campers will learn from local community arts instructors and division staff.  The camp concludes with a showcase performed by participants in the Norman L. Fagan West Virginia State Theater. The Performing Arts Sampler for Kids will accept up to 45 campers, ages 8-16. Preregistration is required.

The Historic Preservation Summer Camp invites kids to learn about historic preservation, architecture, archaeology and history. Campers will enjoy activities and discussions on these topics and participate in a mock archaeology dig. On the last day of camp, students will visit the Historic Glenwood Estate on Charleston’s West Side to learn about this historic home and the people that lived there. 

The instructor of the Historic Preservation Summer Camp is Historic Preservation Office Education and Planning Coordinator John Adamik.  Alison Thornton, a program associate for the Appalachian Forest Heritage Area (AFHA) AmeriCorps Program, will lead the archaeology activities.  Camp is free and runs from 9 a.m. to noon July 13 –16. Space is limited to 20 students ages 10-12 with preregistration required.

For more information and to register for the performing arts camp, contact Bethany Cline at (304) 558-0220 or bethany.k.cline@wv.gov. For the historic preservation camp, contact John Adamik at (304) 558-0240 or john.d.adamik@wv.gov.

The West Virginia Division of Culture and History is an agency within the West Virginia Department of Education and the Arts with Kay Goodwin, Cabinet Secretary. The division, led by Commissioner Randall Reid-Smith, brings together the past, present and future through programs and services focusing on archives and history, arts, historic preservation and museums. For more information about the division’s programs, events and sites, visit www.wvculture.org. The Division of Culture and History is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

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