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A hands-on puppet and drama camp for kids ages 5–8 in Midland, Michigan. Join Cheryl Levy and Rebecca Smith for a week of songs, puppetry, teamwork, and a Friday performance.
A hands-on puppet and drama camp for kids ages 5–8 in Midland, Michigan. Join Cheryl Levy and Rebecca Smith for a week of songs, puppetry, teamwork, and a Friday performance.
Book with Creative 360
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Creative 360 · Midland, Michigan
At 5501 Jefferson Ave in Midland, Michigan, Grandma Goose is on the Loose turns a summer week into a compact, creative laboratory for youngsters. From July 6–10 (9:00–11:30 each morning), children ages 5–8 explore puppetry, songs, and short-form drama rooted in nursery rhymes and folk tales—with a playful Dr. Seuss twist. The camp balances imaginative play with clear structure: daily rehearsal blocks, props-building, ensemble games, and a Friday public performance for family and friends.
What makes this camp stand out is the staff. Cheryl Levy brings 19 years of puppet programming from Grace A. Dow Memorial Library; her experience designing youth plays and creating library puppet magic gives the week a practical, craft-forward backbone. Rebecca Smith contributes theatre-stage expertise and classroom experience as a kindergarten teacher, keeping activities age-appropriate, safe, and educational. That combination of library storytelling and live-theatre know-how keeps the pace lively while teaching cooperation, listening, and stage presence.
The basics are concise: preregistration is required, children should bring a water bottle, and snacks are provided. Sessions emphasize teamwork and kindness; small ensemble exercises and puppet partners encourage children to share roles and support peers. Technically, students learn simple voice work, movement cues, and puppet manipulation—skills that build confidence and translate to reading readiness and social skills.
Setting-wise, the camp sits inside a community arts venue at the listed address, making it easy for families staying in Midland to drop off and pick up. The Friday presentation offers a satisfying arc for young participants: a week of work that culminates in a short show, complete with homemade props and songs. Parents get to observe progress, and children experience the tangible reward of performing for an audience.
Why local families value this program: it’s small-scale, low-pressure, and rooted in Midland’s storytelling tradition. It’s also an accessible introduction to theatre and puppetry without the commitment of a full season program. For visiting families, this week-long camp can pair well with nearby attractions such as Dow Gardens and the Chippewa Nature Center for a balanced trip of arts and outdoor play.
Practical notes: preregister early to secure a spot; plan for morning logistics; inform instructors of allergies; expect a supportive environment focused on inclusion. The camp’s blend of craft, play, and performance makes it an especially good choice for kids who like to talk, move, and invent characters—an active, social, and creative way to spend a summer morning in Midland.
To register, follow the booking link; spaces are limited and the camp is supervised by experienced instructors who emphasize safety and positive language. Whether your child is shy or outgoing, the week provides structured encouragement, quick creative wins, and a small stage to shine—perfect for first-time performers and repeat campers alike.
easy.
2–3 hours per day.
Designed for children ages 5–8 able to participate in guided play, light movement, and seated listening activities
This camp is designed for children ages 5–8.
Yes—preregistration is required. Use the booking link to reserve a spot.
July 6–10, mornings at 9:00–11:30 at 5501 Jefferson Ave, Midland, MI 48640.
Yes—snacks are provided; bring a water bottle. Notify staff of any food allergies ahead of time.
Yes—the cast performs for family and friends on Friday; details are shared with registrants.
Cancellation details are not listed here—check the booking link or contact the provider directly via the referral link for policy information.
Cheryl Levy served for 19 years as a librarian at Grace A. Dow Memorial Library and brings that local puppet tradition to the camp.
Encourage reusable water bottles and labeled containers to reduce single-use waste; supporting local arts programs helps sustain community cultural resources.
Creative 360 is a community-centered arts organization based in Midland, Michigan, offering a broad calendar of performances, classes, workshops, and volunteer opportunities. Dedicated to accessible arts education, Creative 360 runs inclusive semesters such as Artshop Clay and Artshop Painting Explorations that welcome participants of all ages and abilities, including those with disabilities. Small class sizes—typically limited to eight students for specialized hands-on art sessions—ensure personalized attention and skill development. Creative 360 presents recurring public performances including the free Sound Community Music Series held every second Wednesday, featuring classical and jazz artists like Trio Rubaton and electro-acoustic sets. The venue hosts visiting artists and special concerts such as the June performance by Michigan native Sarah Bomber. Seasonal programming includes a Summer Theatre Intensive for ages 11–17 where students audition, rehearse, and perform under a professional director, and short-term workshops like Sewing for Everyone focused on upcycling and practical skills. Community engagement is central to Creative 360’s mission: the organization operates volunteer programs that allow community members to support events and enjoy performances, and coordinates special events such as the inaugural Holiday Art Fair during Midland’s Holiday Arts Weekend. Additional offerings like Tai Chi 360 provide wellness-focused movement classes suitable for all levels. Creative 360 partners with local artists and instructors to maintain a varied, community-rooted schedule of arts experiences in Midland.
Book with Creative 360