Discover Theatre brings arts, family & community to foster kids

This summer, two Portland high school students are doing their part to make a difference. Rising seniors Jordyn Mayer and Gracie Jacobson are the co-creators and directors of Discover Theatre Camp, a project that’s been two years in the making.

Discover Theatre Camp is a non-profit camp aiming to incorporate all aspects of theatre and performance into a week-long creative learning experience for foster kids in grades 1-8. Jordyn, Gracie and their team of student and adult volunteers will guide and teach campers in learning a song and choreographed dance and building a simple set piece and costumes, culminating in a showcase on the last day of camp. Throughout the week, kids will also learn various group and improv games.

Getting the camp off the ground hasn’t been easy, though. Jordyn and Gracie quickly learned that to make a dream into reality takes dedication and persistence, especially at their young age. “It was hard for people to take us seriously because we’re 17,” Jordyn admitted. They never gave up, though.

“We really want to bring theatre to this community and be able to teach the kids what we think is important about theatre. Our hope is that we can instill leadership in them and help them come out of their shells. Everybody has different talents, and theatre can be a really good place for you.”

They chose theatre due to their own interests; Gracie has been acting since childhood and performs for both Oregon Children’s Theatre and Northwest Children’s Theater, and Jordyn is involved in behind-the-scenes with costuming. Both also have backgrounds in music. When they found out that opportunities for the foster care community scarcely include arts and performance, the spark was ignited.

Using their connections to bring arts and education professionals on board, the girls have created a solid, passionate team who is ready to welcome and inspire their first crop of budding performers. Jordyn is most excited to help instill in campers “a sense of family. When you’re backstage it’s not just a group of people working on the show together; it builds a community that you really can’t find anywhere else.”

Discover Theatre Camp
Date: Aug 1-5, 2016 (Mon-Fri)
Time: 12-5pm, showcase Fri 5:30-7:30pm
Location: Holy Cross Catholic School, 5227 N. Bowdoin, Portland
Cost: $25/camper (scholarships available)
Pre-registration required; visit discovertheatre.org