Harbourfront holds March Break camps for youngsters

Aimed at young campers ages 4 to 16 with arts-based programming

By Linda Liontis –

An exciting March Break session of Harbourfront Centre Camps awaits campers ages 4 to 16! Harbourfront Centre has built its reputation on a tradition of enriching the lives of children through diverse arts-based programming in the heart of Toronto’s waterfront with the best counsellors in the city. Harbourfront Centre offers 11 day camps including Portfolio Prep, its new March Break Camp where budding artists learn how to create a portfolio for high school or university. Campers can also join the circus and learn to walk on stilts and juggle; discover the exciting worlds of digital photography, acting, literature and fashion; improve their chess skills; and much more.

March Break Camps take place from Monday to Friday, March 16 to 20. Camps take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West. A supervised extended hours programme is available from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and from 4 to 6 p.m., at an additional cost of $65. Early registration is advised, as camps fill up quickly. To register or for more information, the public should call the Camps Hotline, 416-973-4093 or visit harbourfrontcentre.com/camps.

NEW! Portfolio Prep
Ages: 12-16
Cost: $225
This camp is for the budding artist who is planning to take their artistic endeavours to the next level and requires a portfolio for high school or university. Using a variety of techniques, campers prepare original artwork using artist quality materials for their portfolio. The qualified instructor and guest artists help develop a well-rounded portfolio so each camper’s talent can shine.

Camp by the Water
Ages: 4-6
Cost: $210
A variety of fun activities await the littlest of campers! The highly qualified and experienced staff foster a safe and nurturing environment for first-time campers, encouraging new friendships, camper enrichment, creativity and self-expression. Small groups offer a 6:1 camper-to-counsellor ratio, ensuring safe supervision and individual attention. The exemplary staff are selected based on enthusiasm, prior experience and capacity to supervise the youngest campers.

Junior Creative Arts
Ages: 6-9
Cost: $220
Campers are encouraged to follow their creative instincts and let the imagination reign. Diverse cultural and artistic perspectives are explored through a variety of hands-on activities. Campers learn to appreciate art through lively workshop sessions, with emphasis on personal creativity and technique. Local artists provide inspiration and expertise while guiding campers through projects.

Circus
Ages: 7-13
Cost: $250
Experience the magic of the circus during March Break! Campers learn thrilling circus activities such as juggling, stilt-walking, acrobatics and clowning. The camp stresses safety in a controlled and supervised environment that allows campers the freedom to experiment with all of the circus equipment throughout the week. This camp is coordinated by Cirque du Soleil Social Instructor/Trainer Marsha Kennington.

Chess Challenge
Ages: 8-12
Cost: $210
Chess enthusiasts, from beginner to advanced, enjoy unparalleled instruction in chess strategy. Campers learn to “see” the chessboard as tournament professionals do. They are taught elementary techniques, such as how to open a game, defend a piece, checkmate, avoid stalemate and more, while experienced players pick up additional tips to improve their game.

Digital Photo Camp
Ages: 8-12
Cost: $220
This camp offers an innovative, hands-on introduction to the creation of images using Harbourfront Centre’s new media lab, giving campers the opportunity to experiment with contemporary digital photography. Campers learn about creative vision, composition and shooting techniques through the lens of our digital cameras, which are provided. Campers have the opportunity to create and edit digital photographs by working with such projects as spoof advertising campaigns, digital photo collages, and self portrait photo projects.

Fashion Design Camp
Ages: 8-12
Cost: $220
Under the guidance of experienced staff, campers learn about the world of fashion. Fundamentals of design provide the basis for campers to create sketches and execute projects from start to finish. Campers work with raw fabrics, old jeans and T-shirts to craft their final masterpiece.

Junior Authors
Ages: 8-12
Cost: $215
Calling all junior authors and avid readers! Explore the wonderful world of literature with experienced camp staff and local authors. Campers read and discuss the material, as well as participate in creative writing workshops. This camp stimulates creativity and the imaginative spirit of budding young readers and writers, exploring what lies below the surface of children’s favourite literature.

TheatreKids
Ages: 8-12
Cost: $220
This camp is for the budding actor! Created for campers who love being in the spotlight, TheatreKids explores the world of theatre in a relaxed, hands-on environment. Working together with the Director, campers learn aspects of performance and theatre production while rehearsing and preparing for their own show, to be presented to family members and friends at the end of camp. Special guests are often brought in to showcase aspects of drama or stage production. No agents or casting calls necessary, just lots of fun!

Senior Creative Arts
Ages: 10-12
Cost: $220
Campers discover art, culture and creativity in this intensive art camp for older kids. Diverse cultural and artistic perspectives are explored through drawing, painting, sculpture and printmaking. Guest artists blend traditional and contemporary art forms, while guiding campers through Harbourfront Centre’s galleries and craft studios for context and inspiration.

Dungeons & Dragons
Ages: 10-15
Cost: $200
Wizards, dragons and knights, oh my! In this medieval fantasy role-playing board game, campers harness their imagination through assumed characters, overcoming obstacles and outwitting opponents. Campers learn cooperation, independence and problem-solving skills while interacting with their peers in this well-supervised program. Suitable for first-time players or for experienced D&D-ers.

FOCUS: Pause
Harbourfront Centre wants you. to. slow. down. In a world where we are constantly bombarded with information and images, what happens when someone really takes the time to reflect? Through May, Harbourfront Centre wants you to pause and make a connection to art, recreation, the world. Find time for yourself by taking one of our Courses and Workshops; reflect while you wait for the World Stage curtain to rise; enjoy while you skate on the Natrel Rink. Harbourfront Centre—time well spent.