Local Students Enjoy Summer at Folk Dance Camps
Sycamore Youth Center Hosts Successful Summer Folk Dancing Camps for Local Youth
STEUBENVILLE, OH — In a demonstration of both community interest and a commitment to the arts, the Sycamore Youth Center recently concluded its Summer Folk Dancing Camps, attended by approximately 60 local children and adolescents. The camps, which ran from July 7 to July 11, were designed to engage students in a form of dance that has been increasingly overlooked in contemporary culture.
The initiative sought to reignite interest in folk dancing, a genre often seen as a fading art form. The program featured two distinct sessions: a Beginners Folk Dancing Camp and a more advanced Experienced Folk Dancing Camp. Under the direction of dedicated instructors Zac Gordon and Jariel Henthorn, participants not only learned the traditional steps associated with folk dance but also developed teamwork and self-confidence.
Bobbyjon Bauman, the executive director of Sycamore and president of the Ohio Valley Youth Network, noted the success of the camps, stating, “We welcomed 41 enthusiastic students in the Beginners camp, and an additional 20 returning participants for the Experienced camp.” This level of participation exceeded initial expectations and highlighted a significant community interest in preserving cultural dance traditions.
The curriculum was structured to provide a balanced focus on dance, rhythm, and cultural appreciation, all within a supportive environment. Bauman further emphasized the positive impact of the program, remarking, “The camps provided a fun and meaningful opportunity for students to grow in rhythm, movement, and cultural appreciation. The excitement and energy from the kids were contagious, showcasing how such initiatives can engage youth in healthy and enriching activities.”
This camp experience aligns with the broader mission of the Sycamore Youth Center, which is dedicated to providing enriching programming for local youth throughout the school year and during the summer. By fostering life skills through varied activities, the center aims to assist young people in building healthy relationships and discovering their inherent potential.
For families interested in additional summer activities for their children, the Sycamore Youth Center has announced the upcoming Sycamore Summer Fun Camp, scheduled for August 4-8 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. This free camp welcomes school-age children and features a range of engaging activities. Registration is accessible via the center’s website at sycamorecenter.com.
As the Sycamore Youth Center continues to innovate and expand its offerings, it stands as a crucial resource for the youth of the area, promoting not only artistic expression through dance but also encouraging community involvement and personal development.
