SUMMER THEATRE CAMP: STAR 2026

ABOUT STAR: 

STAR (Summer Theatre Arts Rendezvous) is a theatre arts summer program for youth between 12–18 years old in which students will develop theatrical skill sets that align with their interests. This year, the program will begin slightly earlier to accommodate rehearsals for the season’s first production, starting in July.

That production is especially exciting: Perseverance Theatre will premiere Kutulagaaw: The Tlingít Russian Battle, the first Tlingít opera, co-commissioned and co-produced with Sealaska Heritage Institute.

Students can take part in four weeks of engaging theatrical programming this summer, with options designed to support a range of interests and experience levels.

Each week, students will work to hone their theatrical skills with the guidance and mentorship of visiting and local teaching artists. These intensives are geared towards building the student’s skills as an artist and community member, so that we may continue to develop our local artists pool and build a healthy arts ecology for Tlingít Aaní and beyond. 

The program is student-driven, so each camper will be encouraged to honor their inner artist and to use their own unique skill set to develop an artistic piece that speaks from their own perspective. There will be a short showcase at the end of every week (Friday at 2:00PM) that is free and open to family, neighbors, and the community. This is an opportunity for students to show off their hard work and projects created during camp. 

This year’s STAR Summer Theatre Intensives will take place Monday through Friday, from 9:00AM until 3:00PM. Check-in and Morning Drop-Off will begin at 8:30AM, and pickup will begin at 3:00PM. Transportation is available at no additional cost to families interested 

Perseverance Theatre will provide lunch for all students at no additional charge, though parents are welcome to opt out. Lunch will be from 12:00 – 1:00pm, and campers are required to remain within Perseverance Theatre facilities unless written permission is provided by a parent or guardian. 

Upon completion of registration, parents and guardians will be sent a full camp schedule and information packet via email in June. 

SCHEDULE

MONDAY – FRIDAY, June 22 – July 17, 2026

  8:30AM | Morning Drop-offs and Check-ins Begin

  9:00AM | STAR Programming

12:00PM | Lunch 

  1:00PM | STAR Programming

  3:00PM | STAR Student Pick-Up

FACULTY

STAR prides itself on the caliber of ability, discipline, and artistry possessed by our faculty. We work with local and national artists to bring students the best training and guidance necessary to pursue their theatrical interests. Our faculty is adept at teaching while continuing to perform/create as working artists and enhance the world of the theatrical arts.

Aurora Behlke | Playwriting / Devised Theatre Instructor
Aurora Behlke (she/her) is an Alaska raised, London-based playwright, educator, and musician. Previously, she was working in St. Louis, Missouri as a teaching artist at Metro Theatre Company, as well as writing for the Confluence Regional Writers Project at St. Louis Shakespeare Festival. Her work has recently been produced at Perseverance Theatre, Echo Theatre, and The University of St. Andrew’s (FOUNDERS, KEEPERS); The Samuel French Off-Off Broadway Short Play Festival (THANK YOU, PORCUPINE); and Slightly Askew Theatre Ensemble (LIEBLINGSTANTE, THE INFERNO IS FOR B*TCHES). She is currently pursuing an MFA in Theatre for Children and Young People at Rose Bruford College, where she is studying how theatre can be used to support literacy in education. @ajborealis

Noa Carlson | Support Instructor / Acting / Dance Instructor 
Noa Carlson dabbles in many realms. She is a proud theatre-maker, actor, stage manager, and biologist. She is blessed to work in theater on Tlingít Aaní with Perseverance Theatre, Juneau Ghost Light Theater, Theatre in the Rough, the JAHC, and Theater Alaska. Born and raised in St. Paul, MN, she found great interest in all things theatrical, beginning as an actor in her middle school production of The Music Man to stage managing her high school’s production of Mary Zimmerman’s The Secret in the Wings. Post-college, she worked in the Twin Cities on Social-Emotional education at a traveling children’s theater, and at Penumbra Theatre and Mixed Blood Theatre on projects related to Black racial healing and community artistic work, respectively. She is beyond excited to join the STAR team again this summer as a Support Instructor and co-instructing Acting and Dance with Kylie!

Kylie Ferguson | STAR Program Coordinator / Acting / Dance Instructor
Kylie Ferguson (she/her) is a director, performer, choreographer, and teaching artist based in Tlingít Aaní (Juneau, Alaska). Originally from New Orleans, she began her artistic journey inspired by her grandmother’s piano accompaniment for musicals and her mother’s passion for dance. Kylie is a Musical Theatre graduate of the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts and trained with the New Orleans Ballet Company. She holds a B.A. in Directing from Webster University and has trained with the internationally acclaimed physical theatre company Frantic Assembly. Recent credits include swordfighting in Romeo and Juliet with Theatre in the Rough and directing Dance Nation for Juneau Ghost Light Theatre’s Play Crawl Series. Through her work as an artist and educator, Kylie is passionate about uplifting student voices and fostering creativity through storytelling and performance.

Zetra Goodlow | Directing Instructor
Zetra Goodlow is a director, educator, and storyteller originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, who is passionate about creating meaningful theatrical experiences and inspiring the next generation of artists. A graduate of Point Park University with a degree in Theatre Arts, a minor in Business, and a concentration in Directing, she has built a career that combines artistic excellence with a deep commitment to mentorship and arts education. Now based in Dallas Texas, Zetra has collaborated with organizations including Urban Arts Center, Under Main Theatre, Amphibian Stage, Dallas Theater Center, Theatre Three, Bishop Arts Theatre Center, Dallas College, Harrell Budd Elementary and Soul Rep Theatre Company. Her recent directing credits include Bird on a Ferry by Blaise Miller, God of Carnage by Yasmina Reza, and Leap of Faith by Alan Menken. Known for her collaborative leadership style and commitment to arts education, Zetra is dedicated to creating an environment where young artists are challenged, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. She believes theatre is a transformative art form that cultivates creativity, confidence, discipline, communication, and empathy skills that extend far beyond the stage. Through her mentorship, students are encouraged to think critically, embrace their individuality, and develop the courage to share their unique perspectives with the world. Zetra is proud to help foster a culture of excellence, creativity, and belonging for the talented students and families here at STAR

Nita Mendoza | Lighting Instructor (Technical Theatre) 
Nita Mendoza (Lighting Designer: she/her) is chicana lighting designer based out of Southern California, and this is her second collaboration with the Perseverance Community! Previously at PT, Nita designed Hedwig & the Angry Inch (2023). Born and raised in El Paso, TX, Nita moved to California to pursue an MFA in Lighting Design from the University of California, Irvine and graduated in 2021. Nita enjoys bouncing around different universities as a guest instructor and has been teaching on and off since 2021. Previous institutions include: University of Southern California, University of Northern Colorado, University of Central Arkansas, Pomona College, and California State University, Los Angeles. Recent lighting design credits include: Men on Boats (Chapman University), Cinderella: A Salsa Fairytale (South Coast Repertory), Hamlet (University of Central Arkansas), Ms. Watson & Ms. Holmes: Apt. 2B (Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center) Escape to Margaritaville (Theatre SilCo), Hookman (Pomona College), Harbur Gate (CalPoly Pomona), The Three Musketeers (TheatreSquared), All’s Well That Ends Well (New Swan Shakespeare Festival), Uncle Vanya (Chapman University), RENT (Irvine Valley College), The Moors (Pomona College), Here Comes the Night (Moving Arts Theatre Company), Sunday in the Park with George (El Paso Opera), Water by the Spoonful (Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center), Winter Lights (Discovery Cube, Orange County).

Casey Powers | Stage Management Instructor (Technical Theatre)
Casey C. Powers is a stage manager and Juneau transplant, originally from New Jersey. Perseverance Theatre: 2025-2026 Season, 2025 STAR Stage Management Instructor, 2025 Lingit Opera Workshop, Full Contact (NNPN Rolling World Premiere), Cold Case (World Premiere), A Nice Indian Boy. Other Regional: Chautauqua Theater Company, University of Delaware, Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival. Off- Broadway: The 10th Annual Lillian Wald Symposium at Abrons Arts Center/Henry Street Settlement, Atlantic Stage II, Workshop and Industry Presentation of Shanghai Sonatas at Theater 555. New York: Sketchbook Theatre with Tydeman Farm, Red Monkey Theater Group with Bartow Pell Mansion Museum. She is also the executive assistant at Spice Juneau Indian Cuisine and the Juneau representative for Stand Up Alaska.

Salissa Thole | Support Instructor 
Salissa Thole is a proud woman of Hawaiian, Black, and Filipino heritage. A local Juneauite, she feels blessed to call both Alaska and Hawaii her home. She is a singer, actor, dancer, and educator, as well as a wife and mother of two beautiful sons. Salissa has performed professionally for over 20 years, beginning with Perseverance Theatre in 2006. Since then, she has performed at other local community events like Taylor Dallas Vidic’s Album Release Showcase 2026 and Mike Maas’ Blue Nagoon’s Album Concert 2026. Salissa is a featured vocalist with High Costa Living band (2015-Present), performing music gigs throughout Southeast Alaska and beyond. Select stage credits include Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Sweeney Todd, Chicago, Bigfoot and Other Lost Souls, Yeast Nation, Much Ado About Nothing, The Last Five Years, The Who’s: Tommy, and Hair (Perseverance Theatre); The 25^th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Five Lesbians Eating a Quiche, The Detective Seau N. Sew Mystery Radio Play Series, War of the Worlds, and Sherlock Holmes Radio Mystery (Juneau Ghost Light Theatre); Witch and Hamlet (Theatre in the Rough); and Sisters of White Chapel and Neighborhood Cabaret (2021–2024) (Theatre Alaska). Salissa is grateful to return for her fourth year as a faculty member with Perseverance Theatre’s STAR program!

Caitlin Thomas | Musical Theatre Instructor 
Caitlin Thomas is a composer and multi-instrumentalist based in NYC. Most recently, she toured with folk legend Dar Williams on cello, vocals, and guitar. As a Broadway sub, she’s shared the stage with Sara Bareilles in Waitress (2021), as well as Real Women Have Curves (2025). She also held the cello/guitar chairs for the Dear Evan Hansen and Waitress Nat’l tours. As a composer: Caitlin’s short musical Divorce Party premiered in Sound Bites 2025 Festival. (Add: BMI Lehman Engle Workshop; Berklee College of Music, NYU.) Her debut single, “Love Me from St. Louis,” is on all music streaming platforms.

Cadence Ward | Support Instructor 
Cadence Ward (Koosei.ee) is a Tlingit actor, singer, and dancer currently pursuing a BA in Theatre Performance at Dean College. Having first been introduced to theatre through Perseverance, she is passionate about sharing her love of performance informed by her culture. She is a STAR alumni and is excited to return for a second year as a Support Instructor!

LaCreatia Wilson | Costumes (Technical Theatre) 
LaCreatia earned her Bachelor of Arts in Technical Theatre and Design from Cal Poly Pomona, where she developed a passion for musical theatre and the art of costuming. She began her career at the Disneyland Resort and, in 2015, expanded her journey as a Wardrobe Supervisor aboard cruise ships. Known for her love of connecting with people and engaging in meaningful conversations, LaCreatia is thrilled to join Perseverance Theatre as STAR faculty.

INTENSIVES BREAKDOWN

ACTING INTENSIVE

(Week 1 June 22 – 26 / $250)
All the world can be your stage in Acting Class! This week is about building your acting skills, exploring different techniques, and learning how to fully immerse yourself in any role. Whether you’re new to the stage or have years of experience, you’ll gain confidence and creativity as you dive into the world of performance.

Through fun exercises, scene work, and character development, you’ll learn how to express emotions, master vocal techniques, and hone your stage presence. Work alongside passionate instructors and fellow campers to explore how to create both dramatic and comedic roles, and by the end of the week, you’ll be ready to perform for a family and friends showcase. 

TECHNICAL THEATRE INTENSIVE

(Week 1 June 22 – 26 / $250)
Step behind the scenes and discover the magic of bringing a production to life during Technical Theatre Week at STAR! This week is all about exploring the vital roles that make every performance shine, from set design to stage management to lighting to sound, and costumes. If you’re fascinated by the technical side of theatre and want to learn how to create the perfect atmosphere for a show, this is the week for you.

Under the guidance of expert instructors, you’ll gain hands-on experience with stagecraft, including operating lights, stage management, and creating costumes. Whether you’re interested in creating costumes or learning how to run a lighting board, you’ll gain valuable skills in all areas of technical theatre. By the end of the week, you’ll have contributed to the creation of a family and friends showcase, ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.

MUSICAL THEATRE INTENSIVE

(Week 2&3 June 29 – July 3 / $500)
Lights, camera, action! Get ready for an unforgettable *two-weeks* of drama, song, and dance at our Musical Theatre Intensive! Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a first-time star, this intensive is packed with exciting opportunities to explore the world of musical theatre. From learning iconic songs to mastering choreography and acting techniques, STAR will support the artistry of all our Musical Theatre campers!

Work with talented instructors and fellow campers in a fun and supportive environment as you rehearse, create, and perform. By the end of the week, you’ll shine in your very own showcase, gain confidence, creativity, and unforgettable memories. Don’t miss out on this chance to sing, dance, and act your way to the stage!

DIRECTING INTENSIVE

(Week 2 June 29 – July 3 / $250)
Step into the director’s seat and bring your vision to life during our Directing Intensive at STAR! This week is all about discovering the art of working with performers, shaping a production, and creating unforgettable moments on stage. Whether you dream of directing your own shows someday or want to learn the ins and outs of theatrical leadership, this week will give you the hands-on experience you need.

You’ll work with performers and designers to learn how to interpret scripts, block scenes, and help actors find their characters. With expert guidance, you’ll sharpen your communication, creativity, and leadership skills as you oversee rehearsals and witness your direction take shape. By the end of the week, you’ll have directed a piece to show off to family and friends!

PLAYWRITING INTENSIVE

(Week 1 July 6 – 10 / $250)
Calling all budding playwrights and storytellers! Dive into the world of drama and creativity during the Playwriting Intensive at STAR. This week is all about unleashing your imagination and crafting original scripts that come to life on stage. Whether you’re passionate about writing intense dramas, hilarious comedies, or thought-provoking mysteries, this week will guide you through every step of the playwriting process.

From brainstorming ideas to developing characters and shaping scenes, you’ll learn the art of storytelling and script development. With the help of expert instructors, you’ll refine your writing, share your work with fellow campers, and even see your pieces read on the stage. By the end of the week, you’ll have the tools to write the next big hit!

DEVISED THEATRE INTENSIVE

(Week 4 July 13 – 17 / $250)
Create something completely original in Devised Theatre Week at STAR! This intensive is all about collaboration, imagination, and bringing your own ideas to life on stage. Instead of starting with a script, you’ll work as an ensemble to build a performance from the ground up—using movement, improvisation, storytelling, and group creativity to shape a one-of-a-kind piece.

Guided by experienced instructors, you’ll explore techniques in improvisation, physical theatre, and collaborative writing as you develop characters, scenes, and themes together. Whether you love acting, writing, or thinking outside the box, this week will challenge you to take creative risks and trust your instincts. By the end of the week, you’ll perform an original devised piece for family and friends that is entirely your own.

PRICING

Early Bird Offers: 

• Register by Sunday, May 24 Friday May 29th and get $50 off each week of an intensive! (We’ve extended the Earlybird period by 5 days! Don’t miss out!)

SCHOLARSHIPS

Perseverance Theatre is committed to working with local community partners to provide scholarships so every student can participate in theatrical arts education. 

Please email kferguson@ptalaska.org to receive more information on available scholarship opportunities.

COMMON QUESTIONS 

Q: HOW OLD DOES MY CHILD NEED TO BE TO ATTEND STAR? 

A: STAR is for students 12 – 18 years old. 

Q: IS TRANSPORTATION TO/FROM STAR AVAILABLE? 

A: Yes! Transportation is available at no additional cost to students. 

Q: WHERE DO I PICK UP/DROP OFF MY STUDENT 

A: At the Perseverance Theatre main doors (914 Third Street, Douglas, AK). Feel free to join us in the lobby and chat with staff. 

Q: ARE SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE? 

A: Yes! Please email kferguson@ptalaska.org to receive more information. We are also happy to connect you with local community partners that provide scholarships for students. 

Q: WHAT SHOULD MY STUDENT BRING TO CAMP?

A: Generally, your student should have: comfortable clothing that allows for freedom of movement for rehearsals and theatre activities, closed-toe shoes, a water bottle, a positive attitude, and an open mind! 

Q: IS LUNCH PROVIDED? 

A: Yes! Lunch will take place 12 – 1pm, daily and campers are required to remain within Perseverance Theatre facilities unless written permission is provided by a parent or guardian. Perseverance Theatre will provide lunch for all students at no additional charge, though parents are welcome to opt out. 

*If your student has a food allergy, please make sure to make a note on their registration form and notify staff when your student is dropped off.

Q: WILL SNACKS BE SERVED DURING STAR? 

A: Yes! Snacks will be served each day, and a nutritious lunch is provided. 

*If your student has a food allergy, please make sure to make a note on their registration form and notify staff when your student is dropped off.

This Program Is Partially Funded By The Citizens Of The City And Borough Of Juneau Through Sales Tax Revenues, Sealaska Heritage Institute: Voices On The Land Program, The Alaska Children’s Trust, Douglas-Dorman, and Perseverance Theatre.

REGISTER FOR STAR

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REGISTRATION FEES

The regular cost of the STAR summer program is $250.00 per week. Register by May 29th for a discount of $50 per week. Scholarships are available.

STAR SCHOLARSHIP

STAR has two different scholarship opportunities your student may qualify for:

1. Perseveance Theatre Scholarships: A need-based scholarship for students to alleviate the financial burden of pursuing quality theatrical education. Students may be eligible for partial or full tuition.

2. Sealaska Heritage Institute Scholarships: These scholarships are available for Alaska Native students interested in pursuing quality theatrical education. Students may be eligible for partial or full tuition.

STAR Scholarship Policy: 

The Perseverance Theatre’s scholarship policy for educational programs is based on need and is determined on a case-by-case basis. Scholarships are awarded at the discretion of the STAR Program Coordinator in conjunction with partnering organizations and are dependent on available funds. Any students who demonstrate a real financial need will be provided with some form of assistance.

If you have any questions, please email kferguson@ptalaska.org.

Would you like to apply for a scholarship?

Yes, I would like to see if I qualify for a scholarship.

No, I do not want to apply for a scholarship and would like to pay for my registration now.

Which classes you would like to register your student for?

Week 3 July 6 – 10: Playwriting Intensive

Week 4 July 13 – 17: Devised Theatre Intensive

Which classes you would like to register your student for?

Week 3 July 6 – 10: Playwriting Intensive – Scholarship

Week 4 July 13 – 17: Devised Theatre Intensive Scholarship

Describe your student's financial need:

Which scholarship are you applying for?

Perseverance Theatre Scholarship

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Discount Code

If you have registered for all four weeks, enter the code ‘4WEEKs’ into this field for a $100 discount.

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