‘American Idol’ camp for teens to open

[Brian Damage]

LOS ANGELES - How can you spend your summer vacation, if you’re 12 to 15: Go to “American Idol” camp.

Idol Camp, a performing arts summer camp for kids who crave more than kayaking and hiking, is opening in Massachusetts, it was announced Thursday by series creator 19 Entertainment and co-producer FremantleMedia.

The camp’s limited enrollment isn’t audition-based and won’t guarantee a spot on “American Idol” or provide any advantage in the Fox series’ audition process, a spokesman said. The TV show’s age limit is 16 to 28.

Would-be campers should demonstrate a passion for the arts and a desire to perform, a release said. Four sessions described as “noncompetitive” are planned this summer for July and August.

The camp’s cost is $2,900 per student for 10 days and includes room, board, classes and souvenirs. According to FremantleMedia and 19 Entertainment, a “certain percentage” of students will be eligible for full scholarships based on financial need.


The experience at the Northfield, Mass., camp will include classes with professional artists, former “American Idol” contestants and others in the entertainment industry. Subjects will include singing, dancing and acting.

More familiar camp pastimes such as swimming and field sports will be available.