Summer Camps Available In Hannibal

Kids who have been climbing the walls under quarantine could sure use a breath of fresh air. That's just what they'll find this summer in Hannibal in a summer camp that offers a unique combination of theater and nature.

“A Breath of Fresh Air” Summer Camp starts soon, sponsored by Bluff City Theater YETI (Youth Education Theater Initiative) program., Hannibal Parks & Recreation and Hannibal Arts Council.

Summer Camp will be 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Monday through Friday with the following sessions:

• Session 1:  June 22-26, Ages 5 to 7
• Session 2:  July 13 17, Ages 8 to 10
• Session 3:  July 27-31, Ages 6 to 8

The camps will be directed by Gale Rublee, who said it’s important for children to have a chance to enjoy nature. She said the camps will focus on outdoor and theater group games, nature exploration and some indoor activities to foster imagination and positive social interaction.  Class size is strictly limited to 8 students.

Rublee has a bachelor’s in fine arts degree in theater from Stephens College and spent time in Hollywood pursing an acting career. She returned to St. Louis where she became a professional storyteller and teaching artist.  Having moved to Hannibal three years ago, Rublee is now the youth coordinator and acting teacher for Bluff City Theater’s Academy and YETI (Youth Education Theater Initiative) program and the nature educator for Hannibal Parks & Recreation.  She is a nationally certified interpreter guide with more than 25 years of experience in outdoor education.

Recently, Hannibal Parks & Recreation produced an online series "Nature Moments with Gale” to encourage Hannibal residents to get outside for a dose of Vitamin “N” for Nature. Those videos are available on the Hannibal Parks & Recreation Facebook page or at www.hannibalparks.org.

Summer camp registration is due one week prior to the start of the session. The cost is $69 per session and financial assistance is available.  All classes take place at the Bluff City Theater Annex, 403 Broadway. More information is available at www.bluffcitytheater.com or by emailing yeti@bluffcitytheater.com or calling 573-719-3226.