Camp Broadway's THE NEXT STEP Musical Theatre Program Begins Today in NYC

There are teens who love Broadway, and then there are teens who dream about being on Broadway. And while summer camps throughout the United States give many young ladies and men a chance to pursue their passion in a number of local theater programs, Camp Broadway's "The Next Step" (http://www.campbroadway.com/camp-broadway-programs/the-next-step-ages-15-18) is the only authentic Broadway summer camp program that's designed to empower today's more serious aspiring performers.

Offered beginning today, July 15, through the 19th and only in the Big Apple, "The Next Step" is one of a number of signature summer camp programs provided by the nationally acclaimed Camp Broadway (www.campbroadway.com), the country's industry leader in Broadway musical theater camps and special events. "The Next Step" is developed for 15 to 18 year olds who have experience in musical theater. It's also perfect for those who want an advanced, highly realistic Broadway coaching, rehearsal, ensemble, and even solo experience from a summer camp.

"This program was created in response to the kids who attended Camp Broadway for multiple years," says Melissa Caolo, Camp Broadway's managing director. "They loved the program, and parents wondered if there wasn't something just a little more challenging that would help kids who are considering if performing is really what they'd like want to pursue through a more focused experience.' What would be the 'next step' on the path from theater-loving kid to theater-loving pre-professional? Well, this program is that Next Step!"

Enrollment for "The Next Step" has now officially begun, and those interested in signing up are encouraged to register immediately. The package includes:

• 5 days (40 hours) of intensive triple-threat small group coaching across various singing, acting and dancing disciplines by trained Broadway professionals
• Master classes with Broadway artists
• Q&A sessions with industry professionals
• A ticket to a Broadway show
• Official Camp Broadway t-shirts
• Official Cast of Characters headshot
• Healthy lunches, snacks and water
• Complimentary admission to the Family Finale

"The Next Step" culminates in a special Family Finale musical presentation where campers perform live solo material as well as segments from the Broadway play they attend as part of the program. This year, campers will see Pippin, which was recently nominated for 10 Tony Awards. Unlike other Camp Broadway programs, the "The Next Step" performance will be more intimate - yet no less fantastic - event, given that enrollment for "The Next Step" is limited to 30 participants.

"When it comes to the size of this program, we purposely keep it smaller because it's intense and more advanced," Caolo says. "In fact, 'The Next Step' has flourished because of the one-on-one support the campers get from our highly skilled staff. Any changes to enrollment would actually translate into adding another camp session for future seasons, which, based on demand, is looking like a seriously exciting possibility."

Camp Broadway is proud to partner with the Edison Hotel to provide affordable hotel options for families. Located in the heart of Times Square, the hotel is within walking distance of program rehearsal locations as well as many popular New York City destinations.

For more information, visit: http://www.campbroadway.com/camp-broadway-programs/the-next-step-ages-15-18.

CAMP BROADWAY is dedicated to presenting programs that promote life-long learning through the performing arts. Camp Broadway has been the industry leader in theatre arts camps, educational programming and special events since 1995. It's hosted over 20,000 children from around the world at its summer camps and enabled over 350,000 students to attend a Broadway show as part of their Broadway-themed workshops. Camp Broadway is the recipient of the Ovation Award for Excellence from the Educational Theatre Association.