Behind the Scenes at our Middle School Summer Arts Sessions

Every summer, the Kimmel Center buzzes with excitement and the voices of 40-50 energetic children singing vocal warmups, playing theatrical improv games, and practicing creative collaboration. As part of Ensemble Arts Philly's Middle School Summer Arts Sessions (MSSAS), a free summer arts program for Philadelphia-area middle schoolers, rising 5th–8th graders spend two weeks with teaching artists, industry experts, and special guest speakers. During that time, they build skills in Music, Dance, Theater, and Digital Arts. The experience culminates in a special hour-long showcase where students share what they've learned with family and friends. 

This year, we sat down with three participants, Hannah, Lucas, and Senya, to hear how MSSAS helped them discover new creative skills, feel more confident in themselves, and experience the power of free arts education. Hannah and Senya share why they're back for their second year while Lucas describes his experience as a first-timer. 

Ensemble Arts Philly (EAP): What do you like about MSSAS? 

Hannah (H): One of the things I appreciate the most is how patient the teachers are with every student. No matter your ability, the teachers create space for everyone to feel comfortable. It makes me feel really safe.
Lucas (L): It’s really fun! All of the people here are so nice. Everyone here is so supportive of each other and everything that they do. And all the teachers give us space to share ideas and our opinions on things. They make sure each lesson is very fun and engaging. 

Senya (S): It’s really fun. I like getting to meet new people. 

EAP: MSSAS teaches Music, Dance, Theater, and Digital Arts. Out of those four, which one is your favorite?  

H: My favorite part of MSSAS is dance. I love dance! 

L: Theater. I have always loved theater. Dance was never something I was big into, but doing it here [at MSSAS] has made me love dance more because our teachers are really supportive, even when you mess up. 

S: Probably dance! Dance makes me feel happy because I can express myself through movement. 

EAP: What is one thing that you have learned at MSSAS? 

H: I’ve learned a lot about the audition process and how to prepare for it. 

L: One thing I have learned that trumps all else is how to collaborate with others. 

S: I’ve learned how to make animations in Digital Arts. We made a bouncing ball, and it looked like it was bouncing off the ground in each frame!  

EAP: Do you see yourself performing and/or doing creative arts in the future? 

H: Yes, I want to be a dancer when I grow up! 

L: Yes. At this moment, I think I either want to be an actor in movies or TV shows or work in theater...maybe both. MSSAS has helped me to expand my knowledge of the arts and reinforce my love for it. 

S: Yeah! 

EAP: Can you make friends at Ensemble Arts Philly’s free education programs? 

H: Yes. Making friends is possible because of the environment Ensemble Arts Philly creates. I am so excited to come in every day because I look forward to seeing the friends I made here.
L: Yes, my favorite part of MSSAS is the people! 

S: Yes, I have a bunch of close friends. 

EAP: Is MSSAS worth doing more than once? 

H: Yes, and I plan to keep doing [Ensemble Arts Philly’s] arts programs in the future. 

L: Yes, I would do it every year going forward into high school. I would definitely do it again just to see what else I can accomplish. 

S: Yes, I would definitely do it again. 

EAP: What would you say to another Philadelphia area student thinking about applying to MSSAS? 

H: My advice to new [MSSAS] students is this: do not be afraid to take a chance and learn something new. You might find something about yourself you didn’t know existed. 

L: I would say, “DO IT!” There’s no reason to not do it. I can guarantee that you’re going to have fun. It’s a great opportunity to learn the basics of performing arts. 

S: If you do this program, you can make a lot of new friends and learn new things. 

FAQ

What is Ensemble Arts Philly's Middle School Summer Arts Sessions (MSSAS)? 

MSSAS is Ensemble Arts Philly's free, two-week performing arts summer program for Philadelphia-area middle school students entering grades 5–8. Participants explore Music, Dance, Theater, and Digital Arts through hands-on classes led by professional teaching artists, with special visits from performers and industry professionals. The program encourages creativity, collaboration, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.  Although some students can attend the program twice, preference is given to first-time attendees, selected via online application. 

What do students learn in MSSAS? 

Participating students learn the basics of Music, Dance, Theater, and Digital Arts from Ensemble Arts Philly’s teaching artists. Throughout the program, guest artists share their experiences, giving students a behind-the-scenes look at careers in the performing arts and creative industries. 

Can beginners join MSSAS? 

Yes! MSSAS welcomes students of all experience levels. Participants will receive introductory education in multiple performing arts disciplines: Music, Dance, Theater, and Digital Arts.  Whether a student is exploring the performing arts for the first time or already has experience in music, dance, theater, or digital arts, the program is designed to help every participant learn, grow, and build confidence in a supportive environment. 

Is MSSAS free? 

Yes! MSSAS is completely free. Students who apply and are accepted can participate in the full two-week performing arts program at no cost. 

Ensemble Arts Philly believes in the power of arts education to transform lives and sustain our arts and culture community for many years to come. Our arts education and special programs serve over 40,000 students and 400 schools annually. To see Ensemble Arts Philly’s other free arts education programs, click here.