Campers learn ropes of musical theater

Today at 12:30 p.m., one Mount Pleasant shopping mall will transform into the glitz and glam of Broadway as the merry melody of harmonious actors melts into the tapping two-step of their sychronized shoes.

The players are part of Broadway Dance Academy's Summer Musical Theatre Camp, where students learn to shine in the spotlight.

"It's different from your traditional dance camps or drama camps. We're encompassing all three of the performing arts equally — vocal performance, acting and dance," said Kirk Sprinkles, who co-produces the camp. "We also prepare the students in audition technique."

Sprinkles and his business partner, Alton Cox, are former Broadway performers who hope to bring some of the magic of the center stage to East Cooper. Sprinkles appeared in shows such as "Tap Dogs" and "Chorus Line" and with the Radio City Rockettes. Cox performed in "Jekyll and Hyde," "Cinderella" and "Phantom of the Opera." Three of his vocal students were even semifinalists in "American Idol" trials.

Sprinkles said the reason for the camp was simple.

"It's a true realistic approach to musical theater," he said. "There's a purpose and reason for every movement you do, every lyric you sing. It's all about telling a story."

Cox said he wanted to concentrate on giving students the audition skills to succeed.

"Talent is secondary," he said. "If you want to do this as a profession, you have to work at it."

If students aren't always picked for parts, they can at least be recognized and build awareness of their abilities.

"My goal is to instill confidence and self-esteem," he said.

The camp ran from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the past two weeks, and cumulates into the final performance today. Students practiced at a karate academy two doors down since the Broadway Dance Academy is under renovation until August. Six people came to the last camp, and five people enrolled in this one, but Sprinkles said he liked to keep the classes small so students can receive individual attention.

Emma Adams, a senior at Wando High School, said she went to the last camp in June and enjoyed it so much she went back.

"The worst part is definitely having to get up early in the mornings during the summer. But we do learn a lot, so it's a lot of fun. It's worth it."

Reach Lucia Walinchus at 937-5921.