"THE MIKADO" | CHILDREN'S SUMMER OPERA CAMP
July 20-31 | M-F | 9am-3pm
2026 Children's Summer Opera Camp
We are thrilled to bring back Children's Summer Opera Camp, and this year our two-week adventure culminates in a 1-hour fully staged, set, and costumed junior production of Gilbert and Sullivan's "The Mikado", accompanied by live music too! But there's even more! For those interested in continuing after camp, our production of The Mikado Junior is the training pathway into OperaSLO’s October full grand production of "The Mikado" at Performing Art Center San Luis Obispo!
Why This Camp Is Different
- Train with professional directors and OperaSLO Resident Artists
- Rehearse in a structured, professional environment, accompanied by live music
- Perform in a fully staged and costumed performance
- Option to skip the audition for OperaSLO's October grand production
- Professional mentorship
- Access to participation in OperaSLO mainstage professional shows and the OperaSLO Children's Chorus
Program Details
Dates: July 20–31, 2026
Time: Monday–Friday | 9:00 AM–3:00 PM
Location: Mount Carmel Lutheran Church: 1701 Fredericks St in San Luis Obispo
Final Showcase Performance: July 31 at 6PM
Tuition: $545
Enrollment is limited to 30 participants
What Students Will Learn
- Vocal technique & ensemble singing
- Movement & stage presence
- Character development
- Theatrical storytelling
- Professional rehearsal techniques
- Team building collaborative work
Parent Information
Campers must bring:
- Packed lunch
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Comfortable rehearsal clothing
- Yoga mat
On performance day, pizza and treats will be provided. Opera is a "team sport" and attendance is important in building momentum; please ensure you can attend all days. Camp tuition includes themed T-shirt and option to purchase high definition DVD or download of final performance. Additional themed T-shirts can be purchased at $25 each. Space is limited. Secure your student’s place in OperaSLO’s Mikado Junior Opera Camp today.
REGISTER HERE
Camp Leadership
Marcy Irving, Camp Director
Marcy Irving brings over a decade of experience as the Artistic Director of Central Coast Gilbert and Sullivan; focusing on preserving the artistic integrity and historic traditions of Gilbert and Sullivan operas. She currently teaches music at Cuesta College and has performed in many OperaSLO grand productions in addition to working with the San Luis Obispo Master Chorale, Cuesta College Concord Chorus, and other performing arts companies on the Central Coast.
Rebecca McClaflin, Music Director / Pianist
Rebecca is a company pianist at OperaSLO. She is the Principal Pianist of the Lompoc Pops Orchestra and provides musical support in a variety of live performing arts including accompanying for soloists, instrumentalists, chamber music, jazz ensembles, orchestras, choruses, symphonic pops orchestras, and musical theater.
Luana Gerardis, Choreographer
Luana is the manager of the OperaSLO Children's Chorus. She oversees youth integration into mainstage productions and prepares students to meet professional performance standards. Luana has coordinated guest appearances of the OperaSLO Children's Chorus at the Lompoc Pops Orchestra, Cuesta Concord Chorus, A Charlie Brown Christmas with David Benoit, in addition to participation in all OperaSLO mainstage productions.
Jacy Miller, Acting Coach
Jacy is an OperaSLO Resident Artist soprano vocalist. She has appeared in many OperaSLO productions including Beauty and the Beast, Carmen, and The Wizard of Oz. She brings strong stage experience and mentorship to young performers.
Sherry Sparks, Costume Designer
Sherry is Principal Costume Designer for Opera San Luis Obispo. Comfortable in costume shows featuring 100-200 cast members, she is equally at hope working with kids of all ages. Her recent work at OperaSLO includes the Valkyries featured in our 2025 NYE Gala, Hansel and Gretel, and The Wizard of Oz.
More About Opera San Luis Obispo
Since 1985, Opera San Luis Obispo is the county's only professional opera company, and one of a few "Grand Opera" producing companies in the State of California. OperaSLO productions proudly feature full orchestras, choruses, ballet, and original, complete sets and costumes. OperaSLO complements each season with rising opera and Broadway stars of both national and international acclaim. OperaSLO is a Resident Company at the Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo as well as Vina Robles Amphitheatre. For more information about OperaSLO call (805) 782-7342 or visit online at www.operaslo.org
