• Lighthouse Youth Theatre Programs are now all year round starting with our 18 week program in October, a one week camp during March Break , our long running Timbits Junior Camp and a one month Young Company Program in the summer. At Lighthouse there is something for everyone!

The Conservatory (Ages 6-17)   When: October - April (18 weeks)  $360.00  What: Intensive program allows students to get a true feel for acting on stage right through script reading, casting, set design, production and a final performance on stage.   

March Break Camp (Ages 6-17)  $150.00 When: March Break, Mon - Fri (10am-4pm)  What: Introduction to theatre skills. Rehearse/perform a series of skits based on many fairy tale characters.

Junior Camp (Ages 7-11)  $150.00  When: Camp runs for three weeks, one week camp intervals (10am-4pm)  What: A fun experience and introduction to theatre and Canadian artists. Play games, have fun and put on a show.

Young Company (Ages 12-17)  $360.00  When: Auditions - May  Rehearsals - August (3 weeks)

 What: A professional experience from the audition to performance

To Register Your Child  Classes are limited and enrollment will be on a first come first serve basis. Taxes included in costs. Multiple registrations will receive a 10% discount. Call 519-583-2221. Payment in full is required at time of registration. Cash and major credit cards accepted.

Derek Ritschel, Lighthouse Theatre's Artistic Director

LFT's program for the coming year will include a variety of professionals as trainers, such as designers, lighting and sound technicians, directors and Improv specialists. All designed to deliver the highest quality training, and fun, to the students right here in Port Dover.

Many years ago I owned and operated The Acting Studio in Mississauga. The ‘Studio’ was specifically designed for children. In Port Dover, many people see me as the guy who does all the big shows at the theatre. And that is true, however, I have always had a passion for teaching young artists the benefits of drama. Confidence, public speaking, social interaction and character development are only a few of the remarkable benefits of theatre. My other goal was to do it in a way that was effective and equally fun.

For seven years I had the pleasure of that position and many of my former students keep in contact with me until this day. In fact three of them just surprised me with a visit to the theatre to see The Melville Boys this past Friday. I was overjoyed to see they have grown into terrific young adults. One is studying to be an engineer, another as a dental assistant and the third is on her way to be a journalist!

The Conservatory, for me, is not just a drama school, but a place of creativity, development and unconditional support, not just in creating young actors, but a place to nurture confident and wonderful young adults.

It is my focus to continue to build a program for Norfolk County that is full of life, professionalism, excessive laughter and creativity. Classes begin the week of October 11th and I hope you will consider returning for a new year of fresh and exciting youth programming here at Lighthouse Festival Theatre!