anyone know about Acting for Young People (AFYP) summer camps at George Mason?

[Anonymous]

They look great and have won awards. Looking for firsthand accounts. It's a haul for us so I want to make sure it's worth the drive and $$. Thanks!

[Anonymous]

Sorry, not a firsthand account, but I know several families whose kids go back every summer and love it. Have also heard nothing but good things about their school-year programs.

[Anonymous]

We signed up our daughter for private lessons and they totally blew us off. Very poor communication. Their camps look pretty cool. However, if they can’t communicate about private online lessons, I wouldn’t trust them with my child for a week long camp.

[Anonymous]

My tween really enjoyed improv camp this past summer. Would return.
Also did an acting camp during summer 2021 which was only fine, but I give them a pass b/c 1) kid was much younger and 2) they were dealing with a lot of covid restrictions.

Weird that PP, who has not done a camp, dug this old thread up to complain about private lessons. Just complain directly to them, you coward.

[Anonymous]

I would say they are fine, but not worth a long drive. Find another acting camp closer to you.

[Anonymous]

I promise I am not being paid to write this but I had to jump in on this topic... Acting for Young People is an amazing asset to the Fairfax and DC community. My daughter participated in their summer camp program for many years and also performed in several showcase productions. It is, without question, one of the most organized and well-run youth programs in the DC area. Communication is outstanding—clear, detailed, and proactive. From logistics to expectations, everything is thoughtfully planned. They even provided a short YouTube video showing exactly where to park! Staff are incredibly responsive and professional, which gives parents a lot of confidence.

Beyond the logistics, AFYP truly focuses on building skills and character. My daughter gained confidence, teamwork skills, responsibility, and a genuine love for theater. The instruction is high-quality while still being supportive and age-appropriate, and every child is treated with respect and encouragement. Now that my daughter is part of their “red shirt” staff, we’ve seen AFYP from an entirely new perspective—and it’s been just as impressive. It has been the perfect first job, offering excellent training, mentorship, and a positive work environment. The staff genuinely care about the teens they hire and set them up for success. We couldn’t be happier with our experience over the years. Acting for Young People is a rare organization that excels at both programming and people. I recommend AFYP wholeheartedly to any family looking for a top-notch youth theater experience.

[Anonymous]

First had account; four nieces attended this summer camp and went on to become junior camp counselors there. They loved it! They learned so much about theater (ie auditioning, performing, directing, voice, movement, dancing, acting, and acting styles). They also learned to meet commitments, accept challenges and set backs and believe in themselves.
Not at all biased because they are my nieces, but the performances were always appropriate to their ages and amazing. They each participated in their high school theater programs, one went on to NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and another is a documentary film maker.
The camp teachers have impressive resumes and are professional performers, directors, or high school/college theater teachers.
The program is well run, and organized. Dropping off and picking up was a breeze (even in a summer downpour). The camp’s director and her staff could not have been more kind and invested in the growth and happiness of the children.
I highly recommend this program. ❤️❤️❤️

[Anonymous]

My shy kindergartener went to AFYP this past summer. Now, her 1st grade teacher praises her for her confidence and being a good friend!