The Asase Yaa Cultural Arts Foundation is marking its 25th anniversary with the return of its long-running Children’s Summer Arts Camp, now in its 20th year. The six-week program, hosted by the Asase Yaa School of the Arts will run from July 6 through Aug. 14, 2026, at its Bed-Stuy location on MacDonough Street.
The camp has built a reputation as one of the borough’s few programs offering a fully immersive introduction to live performance production for children ages 4 to 13. Participants get to engage in hands-on training across disciplines, learn how to bring a production from concept to stage while exploring cultural history rooted in the African diaspora.
This year’s theme, “Titans of African Empires,” centers on three influential historical figures: Mansa Musa, the powerful ruler of the Mali Empire known for his immense wealth; Shaka Zulu, founder of the Zulu Kingdom in Southern Africa; and Yaa Asantewaa, who led resistance against British colonial forces during the War of the Golden Stool in present-day Ghana.
“For 20 years, our summer camp has served as a creative and cultural cornerstone for young people in our community,” said Rubie Inez Williams, program director and co-founder of the Children’s Summer Arts Camp, “As we celebrate 25 years as an organization, we remain committed to nurturing the next generation through programs that inspire confidence, creativity and a deep connection to cultural heritage.”
Campers will study these figures and translate their legacies into an original stage production composed of three one-act plays. Through dance, music and storytelling, students will interpret themes of leadership, resilience and cultural identity. The program culminates in a final performance for family and friends at the end of the session.
Beyond the stage, the camp schedule includes arts and crafts, group activities and local excursions, including visits to nearby parks such as Gurney Recreation Park. The program runs weekdays from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
Founded in Brooklyn, Asase Yaa has positioned the camp as both a creative outlet and a cultural education space for neighborhood youth. Over two decades, it has remained a consistent presence in Bed-Stuy, combining arts training with community engagement.
Registration for the 2026 session includes a $100 registration fee, $1,100 tuition and an optional $100 transportation fee. Enrollment is now open through the organization’s online portal, with additional details available on its website as part of its anniversary programming year.
