The Asase Yaa Cultural Arts Foundation has announced the return of its annual Children’s Summer Arts Camp, a vibrant six-week performing arts program for youth ages 4 to 13.
The 2025 session runs from July 1 to August 8 and will take place at the foundation’s new facility in Bedford-Stuyvesant, marking a fresh and exciting chapter for this beloved program.
Hosted by the foundation’s School of the Arts, the camp offers young participants a hands-on introduction to all aspects of live theater. Children explore dance, music, storytelling, and performance, while building confidence, expanding their creativity, and deepening their connection to African cultural traditions.
“This summer marks a beautiful new beginning,” said Camp Director Inez Rubie Williams.
Founded over 20 years ago, the Brooklyn-based nonprofit has remained dedicated to educating, enriching, and entertaining through the cultural arts of the African Diaspora. Each summer, the camp culminates in a fully staged theatrical production—a performance developed entirely by the campers themselves.
This year’s show, Ananse the Medicine Man, is a dynamic adaptation of a traditional Ghanaian folktale. The story delves into themes of truth, deception, and the consequences of misusing power. Under the guidance of professional teaching artists and guest mentors, campers help write the script, choreograph dances, compose music, and design costumes and sets.
“This summer marks a beautiful new beginning and we’re thrilled to welcome campers to our spacious new home in the heart of Bed-Stuy!” added Williams.
The 2025 program also launches Legends of Ashanti, a new immersive storytelling experience inspired by classic Anansi the Spider tales. Through imaginative role-play, group challenges, and collaborative art-making, campers will explore timeless African folklore in ways that are both creative and personal.
Beyond the performance curriculum, the camp offers a wide range of daily activities, including morning circles, arts and crafts, field trips, group games, and cultural events like African Flag Day.
The camp runs Monday through Friday, from 8:00am. to 5:00pm, and registration is now open at Asase Yaa School Registration.
