We are so excited to kick-off our ninth Summer Session! We offer programs for children ages 5-10. Detailed descriptions for each program can be found under REGISTER/Summer 2025 starting on January 18th!
"Alice in Wonderland" Summer 2024
Why our programs are so popular!
Our mission at NESPA is to develop a love of the arts as well as providing a nurturing environment that brings out the best in each student. NESPA strives to instills and grow confidence in every student, not only as strong and confident performers but as strong and confident human beings which they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.
NESPA creates an environment with community at its core. Our mission i to give each student individualized attention and feedback along with having the opportunity for each student to form a true connection with their teachers and peers.
NESPA is one of a kind and has proven time and time again that the community that has been built is nurturing, unique and effective.
Here is what parents have to say-
I just want to thank NESPA for you for all you do for these kids. You have created a welcoming, accepting, supportive environment that allows all kids to thrive. You make it so that they WANT to work hard and put in the time. You are encouraging and request excellence -- which the kids want to give because of the place you have created. NESPA has been a game-changer for Avery, helping her to come out of her shell, develop confidence, make new friends and learn to be comfortable with herself." ~Jill B. (Reading, MA)
We are huge fans of New England School of Performing Arts. and the fabulous Kelly Walsh. In the 4 years we have known her, we have learned this: She inspires creativity, acceptance of self and others, and the gift for kids to believe in themselves because she brings out their strengths. My daughter Anna who has down syndrome has been welcomed with open arms by the company and participated in shows, classes and cabarets. We can’t say enough good things about Kelly and the gifts she has in encouraging and supporting each of her students. ~Karen B. (Melrose, MA)
Kelly Walsh is not only an amazing person but an incredible teacher and director. My daughter has been with the New England School of Performing Arts for several years and worked with Kelly prior to attending NESPA. Kelly doesn’t just teach her students how to act but indoctrinates them into the world of theater. My daughter has touched on all domains of theater with Kelly, from learning how to audition, to set design, choreography and stage management. She has really grown and taken what’s she’s learned to her schools’ theater programs where she is flourishing. Kelly and the NESPA have really nurtured and promoted her love of theater. ~Jane T. (Reading, MA)
One-week programs
One-week programs are for ages 5-10 and offer a different theme dependent on the week. Here is what a typical day might look like- 9am- 9:30am- arrive and play theatre games. 9:30am-10:30am- learn the group numbers and work on solos. 10:30am- snack break. 10:45-noon- work on acting scenes and learn dances. noon-12:30pm- outside lunch break and outdoor games (weather permitting) 12:30-1:30pm- art projects in our art room or acting on the stage. 1:30-2pm- review all of the material we learned for the day.
Two-week programs
Two-week programs are for kids 10+ who are ready to take on a fully-staged production. This program will be held Monday- Friday from 9am- 3pm at The Qunnapowitt Playhouse in Reading. We will audition the actors on the first day and the cast list will be sent home that evening. The rehearsal days will consist of learning music, blocking scenes and choreography. Actors will also assist the tech crew with painting the scenery and creating props and costumes. The two week programs will culminate in a ticketed performance for the general public.
One-week programs (ages 5-10)! Held at NESPA, 55 Concord St. in North Reading.
6/23-6/27 Disney Week
6/30-7/2 Pop Stars Half Week
7/7-7/11 Oz Week / Disney Week
7/14-7/18 Disney Princesses / Marvel Superheroes Week
7/21- 7/25 Oz Week / Descendants Week
7/28- 8/1 Swifty Week / Pop Stars Week 8/4- 8/8 Oz Week / Disney Villains Week
8/11- 8/15 Pop Stars Week
8/18- 8/22 Oz Week Two-week Musicals! Held at The Quannapowitt Playhouse, 55 Hopkins St Reading, MA
7/7- 7/20: Spongebob the Musical: Youth Edition 7/21-8/3: Mean Girls JR.
Payment plans are available. A non-refundable deposit is needed to hold your spot.