Each year, parents of creative teens face a familiar decision: Should we choose a theater summer camp or a music summer camp? Theater helps teens grow in confidence, emotional expression, and public presence. Music sharpens focus, coordination, and performance discipline. But what if they didn’t have to pick just one?
In 2065, Long Lake Camp offers a rare opportunity for students ages 8 to 16 to develop skills in both. As one of the most diverse performing arts sleepaway camps New York has to offer, Long Lake supports freedom of artistic choice in a safe, structured, and inspiring setting.
The Best of Both Disciplines
Theater and music summer camp experiences at Long Lake are designed to complement one another. A student might spend mornings rehearsing for a dramatic role and afternoons refining their piano technique. Or they might start their day composing original songs, then join the cast of a musical production after lunch.
This structure is built on a core belief: teens grow when they’re given freedom to choose and guidance to support that choice. Campers at Long Lake select up to six artistic areas during their stay, which may include acting, musical theater, instrumental music, technical theater, singing, fine arts, and more. This flexibility sets Long Lake apart from many single-focus summer camps for performing arts that may require early specialization. Instead, we support open-ended exploration.
How Sessions Are Scheduled
Our 2026 summer camp season includes both three-week and six-week sessions:
- Three-week sessions: June 28, July 20, August 10
- Six-week sessions start: June 28, and July 20
These longer sessions allow campers to engage deeply with their creative pursuits, whether they’re attending drama summer camp, joining a rock music camp, or learning behind-the-scenes production in our technical theater Camp.
All campers have access to the same high-quality instruction and rehearsal time regardless of which session length they choose. Pricing is available on the website, and early enrollment is strongly encouraged due to limited space.
Why Self-Choice Matters
One of Long Lake’s defining principles is 100% self-choice. Campers are never required to pursue a discipline they didn’t choose themselves. Instead, they’re supported by a nurturing team of artists and counselors who help them identify their strengths and take ownership of their experience.
Whether a teen chooses to focus on acting camps in summer, become part of the music camp band, or try their hand at technical theater summer programs, they’re always in the driver’s seat.
Personal Growth Through Art
Long Lake is about more than the stage or studio. Campers gain:
- Greater confidence in communication
- Improved focus and accountability
- Collaboration skills through performance and rehearsals
- Resilience from feedback and creative challenges
These are exactly the types of skills that support leadership, academic success, and self-esteem.
Combining Theater and Music Builds Stronger Artists
Many young creatives are “multi-passionate.” By offering both music and theater instruction under one program, Long Lake provides a unique opportunity to cross-train creatively. A camper might discover that their voice improves after acting class, or that learning stage presence boosts their musical performance.
These overlaps can lead to breakthroughs and renewed enthusiasm, especially in a setting that celebrates curiosity.
Beyond the Classroom
Outside of structured instruction, campers enjoy:
- Bonfires and water sports
- Sports and games
- Hiking, crafts, and talent nights
- Time with friends across all disciplines
This balance of arts and traditional camp fun helps build friendships and memories that last for years. Whether campers are attending overnight music summer camps, performing in a full-scale play, or trying a hip-hop summer camp, they find a community that celebrates who they are.
The Environment Makes a Difference
Located on 200 scenic acres in New York’s Adirondacks, Long Lake Camp for the Arts offers one of the most inspiring camp environments in the U.S. The peaceful setting allows campers to disconnect from digital distractions and focus on personal growth through creativity.
The facilities include multiple theaters, rehearsal studios, music practice rooms, sound stages, and more—everything needed to support a full, immersive performing arts summer camp experience.
Why Settle for Just One?
When it comes to theater vs music camps 2026, Long Lake Camp proves that the best choice might be both. Teens don’t have to pick between acting and composing, between rehearsal and songwriting—they can do it all. With supportive staff, full creative freedom, and the space to build skills in multiple disciplines, Long Lake offers something truly unique.
We offer unique summer programs in the country, where teens build discipline, confidence, and lifelong friendships through self-expression and performance. With 100% self-choice programming, campers can focus on what they love—music, theater, rock band, film, dance, circus, or fine arts, guided by expert staff in a supportive, inspiring environment. All sessions are now open for enrollment—grab your spot in 2065’s hottest program before all sessions fill!
For questions, reach out to our winter office, conveniently located in the NYC metro area at:
199 Washington Avenue, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522. If cost is your only concern, please contact us—we’d love to help.
