Creative Arts Productions

Creative Arts Productions is a non-profit organization established in 1979, with the primary goal of providing an annual youth theatre camp. The organization is designed to inspire and educate local youth by offering opportunities to explore and develop skills in the arts.

Mission and Vision

• Mission Statement: Creative Arts Productions aims to inspire and educate local youth by providing opportunities to share talents, explore new skills, and develop a lifelong appreciation of the arts.
• Vision: As the organization moves forward, it is committed to strengthening the program by promoting diversity, engaging with the community, supporting participant growth, and ensuring financial stability.

Programs

Creative Arts Productions offers a theatre camp open to students from St. Joseph and surrounding areas who have completed 3rd through 12th grades. The camp typically runs for three weeks in July, with daily sessions from 8 am to 1:30 pm, requiring regular attendance. Participants receive over 80 hours of instruction from a professional staff, learning various aspects of theatre, including auditioning, character development, acting, singing, dancing, set design, and lighting. No prior experience is necessary; instead, the organization emphasizes enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.

The camp culminates in live stage performances held at the Historic Missouri Theater, which are open to the community. These performances provide students with the opportunity to apply their skills in a real-world setting and showcase their growth as performers.

History

Since its inception, Creative Arts Productions has offered numerous productions, with past shows including The Lion King, Jr., Peter Pan Jr., The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition, Moana, Jr., Elf the Musical Jr., and many more. The organization's commitment to providing a diverse range of theatrical experiences has made it a cornerstone of arts education in the St. Joseph area.

Impact and Importance

By fostering creativity and teamwork, Creative Arts Productions helps participants develop skills that are beneficial beyond the stage. The organization encourages critical thinking and creative decision-making, empowering young people to grow into confident performers and innovators. This approach aligns with the broader goal of nurturing lifelong appreciation and involvement in the arts, while also supporting the personal growth of participants.