COLUMBIA — For the 39th year, from sunrise to sunset, first-year Stephens performing arts students will be immersed in the world of theater.
For six weeks, their day begins at 8 a.m., and their study of theater continues until 10 p.m.
The institute consists of six week-long workshops and four shows. Dan Schultz, artistic director for the program, says that it's good training for the real world of theater.
"The students take a really active role in producing the shows," Schultz said. "When they get into the real world, they will know how to do it themselves."
Each workshop is an intensive study of some aspect of theater: dance, acting, theater production, musical theater, stage combat and stage movement.
Ruth Ann Burke, a summer theater institute teacher and business manager for the School of the Performing Arts, is teaching students about the business side of the theater world.
"This is a good introduction to learn all sides of the business," Burke said. "It's pretty intense."
The fruits of the long days are showcased in the four shows the students put on. They will perform a childrens' show, a student-generated production about ice cream, a stage combat performance and a musical revue to round out the summer season.
"They work harder than they've ever worked before for six straight weeks at what they love more than anything," Schultz said.
All the shows are open and free to the public.They will be performed at the Warehouse Theater, with the exception of the musical revue, which will be at the Macklanburg Playhouse.