Fort Salem Youth Theater

After 3 successful summers of “Schoolhouse Rock Live, Jr,” “The Wizard of Oz: School Edition,” and “The Little Mermaid Jr” (which went viral on YouTube with 163,000 views!), we’re very excited to announce the return of Fort Salem Youth Theater in 2025. See below for information about our 4-week camp production of Newsies Jr, open to students from any school district in grades 6-12 (including those exiting 12th grade). We also have a new “mini program” to welcome 5th graders to get in on the action in a limited capacity. See below for details!

Fort Salem Theater’s Summer Youth Musical: Newsies Jr.!

Calling all young performers! Fort Salem Theater’s Summer Youth Musical program is back, and this year, we’re thrilled to present Newsies Jr.—a high-energy musical filled with unforgettable songs, dynamic dance numbers, and inspiring storytelling!

Program Details:

  • Registration Opens: Monday, February 10 (Limited to the first 25 students)

  • Program Dates: Monday, July 7th – Friday, August 1st

  • Rehearsals: Monday through Friday, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Eligibility:

  • Full Program Eligibility: Students from ANY school district entering 6th grade through exiting 12th grade are invited to participate in the full program and may audition for any character or ensemble role.

  • Mini Program Eligibility: Students entering 5th grade (or those with limited availability) can participate weekly on Wednesdays (July 9, July 16, July 23) and will join for the full final week (July 28 – August 1) to be included in the song “Brooklyn’s Here” and to participate as ensemble singers in various other songs.

Tuition:

  • Full Program: $295 if paid by April 1, $350 after April 1 through July 1

  • Limited Program: $75 if paid by April 1, $100 after April 1 through July 1

  • A limited number of scholarships are available (see registration link below)

Auditions:

  • Date: Saturday, June 7th (If unable to attend, a video can be submitted by June 1st)

  • Participants will learn and perform a brief song, dance, and scene from Newsies Jr.

  • Group audition options will be available for those who prefer not to perform solo

Dress Rehearsal Attendance:

  • Week 4 (starting July 28th) is mandatory for all cast members as we prepare for performances!

Performance Dates:

  • Thursday, July 31st @ 7:00 PM

  • Friday, August 1st @ 7:00 PM

Spots are limited—secure your place today by clicking the registration button below!

For questions, please contact Kyle@FortSalem.com. No messages on social media, please! We don’t want to miss your questions!

We can’t wait to bring Newsies Jr. to life with you this summer! 🗞✨

"To be able to put yourself in someone else's shoes and really see the world through their eyes, that's what actors do. And that is what builds character." – Viola Davis

Give the gift of the arts! With a tax-deductible donation of $295, you can provide a local student with over 60 hours of transformative arts education at Fort Salem Theater. Your support helps young performers build confidence, creativity, and lifelong skills in a nurturing environment.

Every contribution directly impacts a child’s journey in the performing arts—empowering the next generation of storytellers and dreamers. Join us in making a difference today!