The new Summer Performing Arts Camp will take place from July 8-12. Children ages 9-11 will spend the first part of the day learning basic performance skills and techniques for music and theatre. During the second part of the day, students will prepare for a Friday night performance showcasing talents developed during the week. There will be three teachers at the camp, each specializing in one area of the camp's focus: music, theatre and musical improvisation.

"So many performing arts summer programs focus only on a final performance. We want to emphasize skill development as well," said Dr. Timothy Coker, Chair of the Millsaps Department of Performing Arts and director of the camp. "Another major goal of the camp is to help children integrate aspects of music and theatre."

This camp is limited to 30 children, and the cost is $150.

Millsaps is also offering the Major Computing Summer Camp for Kids for children ages 8-11. This camp, which will take place July 15-19, will combine the latest computer technology with fun themes to keep students entertained while they learn. The developers of the program have focused on creating a workshop to reinforce educational and creative skills in addition to enhancing developing computer skills.

"There's really no other computer camp like this in the Jackson area," says Jeanne Bodron, director of the camp. "We will move quickly, but we feel that the students will be able to catch on and begin to be creative with computers."

Students will gain experience with multiple computer programs starting with Windows Basics and followed by Microsoft Word, Internet Basics and Dreamweaver. They will use the skills they acquire to create their own web page using digital pictures taken in class. Internet safety will be emphasized, and child-safe search engines will be used at all times. Other activities using Microsoft Word will include basic word processing and creating a camp newsletter.

The camp will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Enrollment limit is 25 students, and the cost is $60.

Finally, Millsaps is hosting Preparing Your Art Portfolio for College July 29-August 2. This program is geared towards high school students who want to enhance their portfolio for college entry, or for students who are simply looking for an advanced art experience. Students will create works of art in several mediums, including drawing, painting and printmaking. The camp will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the cost is $150. The program is limited to 12 students, with priority given to upper level high school students.

For more information about the Millsaps summer camps, call (601) 974-1200.