CONNECT. COLLABORATE. CREATE.
Welcome to the Aurway Summer Arts Program (ASAP).
Two weeks. One stage. Endless possibility.
This August, young artists ages 10–16 will gather at the West Side Park Community Center in Newark for an immersive, production-based summer experience unlike any other! Through daily masterclasses in theater, music, and movement, participants will collaborate to create and perform a brand new musical presentation — culminating in a live showcase on August 21st.
ASAP is for the kid who lives for the spotlight and the one who's never set foot on a stage. Whether you're a seasoned performer or simply curious, this program meets you where you are and pushes you further than you imagined.
ASAP offers an intimate, intentional experience with limited spots available.
The stage is set. Will you be on it?
Location: West Side Park Community Center, 600 S 17th St, Newark, NJ
Program Hours: Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Drop-off begins at 9:30 AM
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
A.S.A.P. is a conservatory-style experience designed for focused, passionate young artists ready to take their craft to the next level.
Through a combination of daily masterclasses and developmental rehearsals, students will train in:
Vocal performance & harmony
Acting & storytelling
Movement & ensemble work
Creative collaboration & new work development
The summer session will culminate with a live performances of an original musical presentation developed by the student ensemble.
This is not a traditional camp — it’s a space for intentional artistry, collaboration, and growth.
WHO IS THIS FOR?
This program is for young people who:
Are curious about theater, music, or performance
Want to try something new or deepen their skills
Are open to collaborating and being part of an ensemble
Are ready to grow in a supportive, creative environment
No experience required. Just interest, openness, and commitment.
ABOUT AURWAY
Aurway is a network of emerging and professional artists dedicated to the pursuit, creation, and presentation of work that highlights the experiences of Black and Brown people.
We are committed to using the arts to bring people together and facilitate meaningful dialogue around the issues impacting our communities. Through educational workshops, public performances, and community partnerships, Aurway creates space for artists and audiences to connect while exploring innovative and unconventional approaches to art-making and performance.
The Aurway Summer Arts Program (ASAP) is a direct extension of this mission, inviting young people ages 10–16 to connect, collaborate, and create in a space rooted in community, creativity, and growth.
FAQs
Is prior experience required?
1
No, but a strong interest and willingness to engage fully is essential.
What should students bring each day?
2
Water, lunch, comfortable clothing, and anything needed for movement.
Will there be a performance?
3
Yes, the session concludes with a live performance.
Where is the program located?
4
Camp will take place at West Side Park Community Center (600 S 17th St Newark NJ 07103), at the Jewish Museum of New Jersey.
Program Leadership
The Aurway Summer Arts Program will be led by Lawrence Dandridge, co-founder of Aurway and a professional actor, writer, and director.
Lawrence is coming directly from the national tour of The Wiz, and was previously seen off-Broadway in Rock & Roll Man, as well as on the national tour of Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations.
His work is rooted in storytelling, collaboration, and new work development, and he brings a working artist’s perspective into the room, guiding students through both process and performance.