For more than 75 years, Dunes Arts Summer Theatre has inspired young people through the power of live theatre. Registration, now open for two sessions of the Dunes Arts Youth Theatre education program and led by members of the organization’s professional company, can be found here.
Set on the historic summer theatre campus at 288 Shady Oak Drive in Michiana Shores, the programs offer hands-on training that sparks creativity, builds confidence and fosters a lifelong appreciation for the arts — all in a place where generations of young performers have found their voice.
The program’s approach centers on creating fun, empowering, and inspiring experiences. Students learn directly from professional artists and educators, develop artistic skills and confidence through acting, singing, stagecraft, and collaboration, and bring their work to life in a final performance or presentation that celebrates their growth and achievements.
“Dunes Arts Foundation’s summer camp was a transformative experience for our daughter,” said Kelley Smith, Chief Administrator in the Mayor’s Office for the City of Michigan City. “From her very first day, Annalise was energized, engaged, and eager to share everything she was learning — from improv to vocal performance. She loved working with the instructors and connecting with other students, and by the end of camp we saw a new level of confidence and stage presence emerge. Watching her shine as the Fairy Godmother in ‘Cinderella’ was unforgettable. This program doesn’t just teach the arts — it helps young people find their voice. We can’t wait to return this summer.”
The 2026 programming lineup includes:
Musical Theatre
July 13-31
Monday - Thursday; noon to 3 p.m. CT (1 to 4 p.m. ET)
Concludes with a showcase production on Saturday, August 1
$280 per student; $250 each when enrolling two or more
Ages 8 to 18
Led by Education Coordinator Michael Fallon, alongside professional actors and educators from our “Avenue Q” production, students will build performative, creative and collaborative skills through solos, scenes, and ensemble work, culminating in a final showcase performance. Students may participate in acting, singing, dancing, or any combination, with roles tailored to their individual strengths and interests.
Michael Fallon
As Director of Choral Activities, Musical Theatre Director and Technical Theatre Supervisor at Alan B. Shepard High School in Palos Heights for nearly 30 years, Michael and his students have received numerous awards for their ensembles in traditional concert choirs and grand champion show choirs through the Midwest.
Theatre Mentorship
July 13-31
Monday and Friday afternoons; Exact meeting times chosen mutually
Concludes with a final presentation for parents, family and friends on Saturday, August 1 at 11 a.m. CT (noon ET).
$50 per one hour session or 6 classes for $250 (save $50)
Ages 13 to 18
Designed for highly motivated students, this program offers a unique opportunity to prepare for college and beyond through personalized, one-on-one mentorship with professional actors from the 2026 company. The program is led by Artistic Director Steve Scott, who has directed more than 300 productions nationally and internationally. Scott previously served as a longtime producer at Goodman Theatre, where he oversaw more than 200 productions over three decades and earned multiple honors for his contributions to Chicago theatre.
ABOUT DUNES ARTS SUMMER THEATRE
The Dunes Arts Foundation, which operates Dunes Arts Summer Theatre and Education Programs, was incorporated in the State of Indiana in 1951 and is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Nestled within the woodsy dunes of Michiana Shores, Dunes Summer Theatre is located at about a half mile from the Indiana Dunes and the Lake Michigan shore at 288 Shady Oak Dr, Michigan City, Ind. As northwest Indiana’s longest-running summer theater program, Dunes Summer Theatre has provided professional theater productions for more than seven decades. This one-of-a-kind experience is a highlight of Harbor Country’s cultural fabric, promoting community spirit and embracing inclusivity, diversity and accessibility in all areas of operations. For more information or to purchase individual tickets ($35), senior/student tickets ($30), group sales ($25 for four or more) and season subscriptions ($150) please visit dunesARTS.org or call (219) 879-7509. Follow along on social media @dunesartsfoundation.