SummerSong
Youth Theatre Program
For the first time ever, Goodspeed is launching a summer program for kids! SummerSong is a weeklong performance-based program culminating in a showcase of Annie Jr. at Goodspeed's Terris Theatre in Chester.
Designed for youth ages 9 to 14, Goodspeed SummerSong is taught by Goodspeed Musicals’ highly-regarded professional staff. Each day will be filled with classes focused on singing, dancing and acting skills as the students prepare for an end-of-the-week showcase of Annie Jr. for family and friends. Throughout the program, artisans and other experts from the Goodspeed staff will provide opportunities for students to learn about what happens behind the scenes to bring a musical to life. The closing showcase of Annie Jr. will be directed by Goodspeed’s Associate Artistic Director Michael Fling.
SummerSong is perfect for rising stars of all experience levels and abilities.
The Details:
When: July 6 - 10, 2026
Hours: 9am - 5pm
Where: Goodspeed's Terris Theatre, 33 North Main Street, Chester, CT
Who Can Attend: Children ages 9 - 14
Cost: $550 per person (Save $50 if registered before 3/1!)
Extended Hours: Early drop off and late pick up is available every day of camp at a cost of $10 per day.
- Early Drop Off is 8am - 8:45am
- Late Pick Up is 5pm - 6pm
Registration begins February 3.
More details to come.
Please contact Goodspeed's Education & Engagement Manager Nick Palazzo with any questions: npalazzo@goodspeed.org
Where is the program located?
SummerSong will take place at Goodspeed's Terris Theatre, 33 North Main Street, Chester, CT
How long is the program day?
9am to 5pm.
Will the students be inside or outside?
Classes and rehearsals will take place inside. Breaks will be given throughout the day where students can enjoy the outdoors. It is recommended that your children apply sunscreen before the program and pack their own sunscreen to reapply.
Will you be offering early drop off and late pick up?
Early drop off (8:00-8:45 am) or late pick up (5:00-6:00 pm) is available.
You can choose the preferred option you need for only $5 per extra hour of childcare. If you would like to take advantage of both drop off and pick up, that option will total $10.
Do students need to bring their own lunch?
Yes, students will need to bring their own lunch. To ensure all students are safe, we ask the lunches be nut-free.
SummerSong is full. Is there a waitlist?
Yes, we will have a waitlist. If someone drops out, we will contact those on the waitlist in the order they asked to join the program. To be placed on the waitlist, please email npalazzo@goodspeed.org. Depending on popularity, we may add an extra session for those that are on the waitlist.
Is there a refund policy?
If you would like to withdraw from SummerSong, Goodspeed must be notified by May 1 to receive a full refund. If notice is given between May 1 to June 1, you will receive an 80% refund. After June 1, no refunds will be given, unless the spot can be filled. If the spot is filled, we will be happy to make an 80% refund. All notice must be sent to npalazzo@goodspeed.org.
What will the performance entail?
The students will perform on Goodspeed’s Terris Theatre stage. Goodspeed will provide each student with an Annie Jr. t-shirt that will also serve as their costume. Students will need to provide their own pair of jeans and shoes for the performance. Each day will end at 5pm. However, Friday July 6 will have a performance at 6pm that is open to families. Tickets will be $15 each with a maximum of 4 tickets per family. Tickets will go on sale the evening of July 6.
Are there drop off/pick up procedures?
A curbside drop off line should begin at The Terris Theatre entrance. Pick up will be done in a similar manner, with guardians driving up and students being brought out to cars. All drivers picking up students must be on their approved pick up list and should have ID ready to be shown.
Are children with special needs welcome to join SummerSong?
Goodspeed Musicals welcomes all children with special needs and health conditions into SummerSong. We pride ourselves in maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all. It is paramount that we receive full disclosure of any needs or special accommodations upon registration to determine alongside guardians what accommodations and support we are able to provide during SummerSong and to allow us to create a successful and positive experience for everyone involved. We must provide a staff-student ratio that is safe for everyone involved and unfortunately we are not able to provide 1 on 1 support. If your school provides an aide or other special accommodations for your student, those same accommodations should be provided at guardian’s expense. Please contact our Education and Engagement Manager, Nick Palazzo to discuss.
Does my child need to be part of this if they want to audition for Goodspeed’s production of Annie?
No. This is a summer theatre program and is separate from our production of Annie in the fall. If your child wants to audition for Annie, we will host audition workshops in the spring. More more information will be posted on our website in the next few weeks.
Any additional questions, may also be directed to Nick Palazzo at npalazzo@goodspeed.org or 860-615-0352.