Now Accepting Virtual and In-person Auditions for the 2026 Season. apply now >


We’re expanding our program in 2026!
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Monday-Thursday from 12-3pm (total of 36 hours)
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Concludes with a showcase production on Saturday, August 1
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$280/enrollee; $250/2+ enrollee
Scholarships available - inquire here.

MUSICAL THEATRE
July 13-31, 2026
Ages 8-18
Led by dunesARTS Education Coordinator Michael Fallon, alongside professional actor and educator Danielle Bilderback, students will build performative, creative, and collaborative skills through solos, scenes, and ensemble work, culminating in a final showcase performance.
Students may participate in acting, singing, dancing, or any combination, with roles tailored to their individual strengths and interests.


dunesARTS YOUTH PROGRAMS
Inspire creativity. Build confidence.
Grow through the arts.

OUR APPROACH
We create fun, empowering and inspiring experiences where youth can:
Learn from Professional Artists and Educators
Instruction led by experienced teaching artists rooted in Dunes Arts and community partners
Develop Artistic Skills & Confidence
From acting and singing to stagecraft and collaboration, students build real-world creative abilities
Showcase What They’ve Created
Every session culminates in a performance or presentation that celebrates students’ artistic achievements
Take a deep dive with Musical Theatre Instructor Danielle Kerr on what makes our youth education program so unique!




THEATRE MENTORSHIP
July 13-31, 2026
Ages 13-18
A unique opportunity for highly motivated students to prepare for college and beyond through one-on-one mentorship with professional actors from our 2026 season, led by dunesARTS Artistic Director Steve Scott.
Steve has directed more than 300 productions nationally and internationally and previously served as Producer at Goodman Theatre, where he oversaw more than 200 productions over 30 years and earned multiple awards for his contributions to Chicago theatre.
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Monday and Friday afternoons
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Exact meeting times chosen mutually
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$50 per one hour session or 6 classes for $250 (save $50)

WHY ARTS EDUCATION MATTERS
PARTICIPATION IN YOUTH ARTS PROGRAMS CONTRIBUTES TO MORE THAN ARTISTIC SKILL.
National research shows that engagement in theatre and arts is linked to:
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Improved communication and teamwork
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Greater self confidence and self-expression
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Enhanced academic and social skills
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These outcomes support healthy youth development both onstage and beyond.
HELP US KEEP THE ARTS ALIVE
Every creative opportunity at dunesARTS is made possible through the generosity of our supporters. Donations help sustain professional productions, youth education and access to live arts for our community.
Whether you give once or become a sustaining donor, your support has a lasting impact.

For more than 75 years, dunesARTS has been committed to inspiring young people through arts education. Taught by members of our professional company, our youth programs offer hands-on theatrical experiences that spark creativity, confidence and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
We extend our sincere thanks to the City of Michigan City Mayor’s Office, the Unity Foundation, the Our Family Foundation and our individual donors for making these programs possible. To learn more about becoming a 2026 Youth Program sponsor, please contact us.


