After the “CM Idol” DJ Dance and Performance Camp at Central Maine Community College, Maine DJ, Danny D takes a look at the famous camp in Massachusetts…
Welcome to the first Idol Camp, a 10-day performance arts retreat run by the producers of "American Idol" for 12- to 15-year-olds with budding dreams of Hollywood fame, a zeal for being on stage and — in many cases — an encyclopedic knowledge of the highest-rated U.S. television show.
The creators and producers of the TV reality search for the next pop star are planning to expand their summer camp over the next few years and are filling a void left by steep budget cuts that have squeezed arts programs in U.S. public schools.
The Idol camp in northwestern Massachusetts, which costs $2,900 a week including accommodation and meals, may be expanded next year from one
month to three months with a West Coast summer camp possibly added a year later.
A typical day begins with workshops featuring professional tips from industry insiders — from singers and musicians to producers and even the stylists of the hair and wardrobes of "Idol" stars.
After that, stretched through the day, are elective activities, including singing solo, performing in a band on stage, music video production, improvised acting, choreography, set-building and basic auditioning.
The camp ends with a concert for the parents.
Camp director Donna Luther said the camp atmosphere is noncompetitive but the camp does not shy away from links to a show known for blunt judges and harsh truths.
The camp's blue-and-white logo is designed in the mold of the one used for "American Idol" — printed on tents and materials across the campus.
Posted by: Maine's Premier Dance DJ and Wedding Specialist, DeBruin Entertainment.
