News Details

October 2024

Over the years, hundreds of students have found out what it’s like to be on stage through their involvement in Wayne Township Community Theatre’s camp program. Those weeklong camps - held in the fall, spring, and summer - are made possible with support from the Wayne Township Education Foundation, and with the creativity of artistic director Craig Underwood.

“We’re so very fortunate to have a director of Craig’s ability leading our theatre camps,” said WTEF Executive Director Lisa Baize. “The breadth of experience he brings is such a benefit for our students.”

Craig earned degrees in education and theatre from Ball State University. He is a former full-time educator, most recently with The Orchard School in Indianapolis. Craig is currently a professional actor performing in “Fiddler on the Roof” at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis.

Craig most recently performed in Indiana, Wisconsin, Massachusetts and New York. Productions include “Matilda,” “Sweeney Todd,” “Into the Woods,” “The Buddy Holly Story,” “Scrooge!” and “Guys and Dolls.” He has also appeared in commercials and print advertisements for Target, DXL, and HIMS.

In addition to those impressive achievements, Craig has directed and choreographed more than 100 professional, community and children’s theatre productions. His most recent was “Honk!” for Wayne Township Community Theatre.

We recently asked Craig to tell us more about his involvement with our community and its student-theatre program.

How did you become involved with Wayne Township Community Theatre? 

I first became involved with WTCT when I auditioned for the 2006 season and played Captain Hook in “Peter Pan,” directed by Debbie Montgomery.

What prompted the theatre to begin its camp program? 

I remember being impressed by the number of kids in “Peter Pan;” I think we had around 60 in the cast. From that I volunteered to direct an all-kids production of “Honk! JR.” in 2007, and again featured over 60 kid actors. From there a few of us met with Lisa Baize and discussed the possibility of offering theatre camps. I had taught several different theatre camps over the years and was happy to teach them in Wayne. In 2008, we kicked off a full summer programming of three camps that led to fall, winter and spring break camps as well. We continue to offer camps over the summer, fall and spring breaks.

What are the most important things students can learn when they take part in a theater camp in Wayne Township? 

I like to believe we are creating lifelong memories. Through creative play and a little hard work and focus students create new friendships and begin to foster an appreciation for the arts.

Can you describe the musical "Leap Day," which is the focus of your fall camp?

“Leap Day” is an original 30-minute musical written by Beat by Beat Press and inspired by the short story “The Days of the Week” by Hans Christian Anderson. The musical happens on Leap Day, the one day a year the Days of the Week get a day off, and they celebrate with a party. Nothing goes right, friendships are tested and a surprise guest puts everyone on edge. The campers will play a variety of characters, including Father Time, Clocks, Days of the Week, and Mother Nature. (Learn more about our fall theatre camp, coming up October 14-18, here.) 

Why is learning about theatre in childhood beneficial?

Theatre requires imagination, focus, empathy, listening, and teamwork. This allows children to build foundations in social skills and different ways to express themselves.

What do you like most about providing this opportunity for students?

I absolutely love theatre, and I love watching students grow through theatre. In our week-long camps, I get to see confidence grow, friendships form and students really step outside themselves and take risks.

ABOUT THE WAYNE TOWNSHIP EDUCATION FOUNDATION
The Wayne Township Education Foundation (WTEF) provides community leadership to enrich, engage, and stimulate teaching and learning in the Metropolitan School District of Wayne Township. WTEF accomplishes this by supporting school programs and resources, while recognizing excellence among students and staff. To learn more about WTEF and/or establishing a named, designated fund, call 317-988-7966, visit wtef.wayne.k12.in.us, or follow us on Facebook or Twitter @WayneTwpEdFound.