Camp Performing Arts Specialist

The Summer Camp Performing Arts Specialist brings enthusiasm, creativity, and energy to the camp community and works collaboratively with counselors and summer staff to support a positive and inclusive camp experience. The Performing Arts Specialist is responsible for the development and delivery of an engaging, developmentally appropriate music and theater program for children ages 4-12, designed to encourage creativity, collaboration, confidence, and self-expression.


Programming will expose campers to a variety of performing arts experiences, including singing, rhythm and movement, basic music concepts, dramatic play, improvisation, character development, storytelling, and stage performance. Campers will have opportunities to explore voice, expression, stage presence, teamwork, and creative interpretation through both structured activities and playful exploration.


Activities are designed to support communication skills, listening and cooperation, problem-solving, creativity, and self-confidence, while allowing children to express themselves in a supportive, process-focused environment. The goal of the performing arts program is to foster a love of music and theater, build self-esteem, strengthen collaboration skills, and provide campers with meaningful opportunities to rehearse, perform, and take pride in their creative accomplishments.


Key Responsibilities:

• Design and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate performing arts experiences for children ages 4-12, incorporating music, singing, rhythm, movement, dramatic play, improvisation, storytelling, and basic stage performance skills.
• Create and adapt to music and theater activities that encourage creativity, collaboration, confidence, problem-solving, and individual self-expression as part of the overall summer camp experience.
• Foster a supportive, inclusive, and process-focused environment where children feel confident taking creative risks, expressing themselves through performance, and working together as an ensemble.
• Collaborate effectively with camp leadership, counselors, and fellow staff to integrate performing arts experiences into daily programming, themed weeks, and special events, including potential showcases or performances.
• Demonstrate flexibility, professionalism, and a cooperative attitude in response to program needs, group dynamics, and evolving performance opportunities.
• Provide support to the Program Director, Assistant Director, Unit Leads, and Head Counselors as needed to ensure smooth program operations and a cohesive camper experience.
• Attend and actively participate in all required staff trainings, meetings, and orientations.
• Commit to availability for the full summer camp season.
• Model positive personal habits, appropriate dress, respectful communication, and professional relationships that reflect camp values and set a positive example for campers.

Requirements

Qualifications:

Education: High School Diploma, BA required


Experience: In accordance with New York State Department of Health (DOH) licensing regulations, all camp staff are required to participate in and successfully complete mandatory pre-camp counselor orientation and training prior to any interaction with or supervision of campers. Staff must demonstrate emotional maturity, good moral character, and personal integrity, as required by DOH standards. A genuine interest in and enjoyment of outdoor activities is also expected, as the camp program is largely outdoor based.


Licensing and/or Certifications: Accepted but not mandatory


Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to work as a team member with other counselors and adult staff members.
• Experience in working with children in a group setting.
• Responsible, friendly, enthusiastic, patient and willing to learn.

Compensation:

• This is a seasonal stipend-based position paid through payroll.
• The total summer stipend for this role is $5,260.08 covering the full Camp Funkist season (June 25-August 21, 2026), including required training days and scheduled camp days.
• Stipends are distributed semi-monthly in accordance with the YWCA payroll schedule and are prorated across all paid days in the season.
• This stipend reflects compensation for the full seasonal assignment and is not calculated on an hourly basis.