April 2024 – The Local Dish Magazine

Time flies indeed! Shooting this month's Barbie cover with Stephen Zygo and the talented actors from the Acting Academy for Kids was an absolute blast. It marks Stephen's 11th year gracing our April Kid's Summer Camp issue. Collaborating with local kid businesses as they gear up for summer programs is always a highlight for me. As I reminisce about the wonderful camps my children enjoyed over the years, I can't help but feel a twinge of nostalgia. With my son heading off to college and my daughter entering high school, those summer camp memories are now cherished moments of the past. From my daughter's horseback riding lessons to my son's first half-pipe adventure, those were the days!

Luckily, as the publisher, I get to reminisce over fond memories with each April issue by playing "Where's Waldo" with old photos of my kids in the camp guide. They may have outgrown day-camps, but I can keep them young in the pages of The Local DISH... and their model services are free. Be sure to explore the amazing adventures awaiting your kids this summer.

A heartfelt thank you for your continued support of all our partners, and as always, thank you for being a part of The Local DISH community!

PARENTS & KIDS RAVE THAT AA4K IS THE BEST IN THE OC!

right around the corner for their summer production of Urinetown, an adapted and teen-appropriate show that runs from June through August while High School students are on summer break. Musicals continue through the Fall, Winter and Spring with sessions that will take on more full-length shows. These seasonal programs are designed to let students take their love and experiences in musical theatre to the next level.

The only category that takes a break in summer is the recently reinvigorated TV and Film Department, AA4K Studios, the only Orange County program offering IMDB credit for locally produced films starring students. "We are one of the only programs creating film and TV magic for kids," said Courtney Yamanishi, AA4K Studios Director, about the hands-on program, which includes access to state-of-the-art cameras, lighting, and a real-world working Hollywood film crew. Kids love it because they aren't just acting; they're learning the craft of filmmaking.

ACTING ACADEMY

TWO LOCATIONS!

BY VICTORIA KERTZ

With summer months just around the corner, now is the perfect time to plan a fun, creative routine for children and teens. The Acting Academy for Kids & Teens (AA4K) is now open for summer camp registration, and this summer's weeklong stage productions offer so many new opportunities for your kids to shine!

Founder Stephen Zygo is thrilled to introduce five new musicals for young voices, Barbie and Ken, Wonka, Trolls 3, Mean Girls, and WISH Upon a Star, plus returning favorites Matilda and Harry Potter. With camps from June 3 through August 9, kids (ages 5 to 14) are welcome for one week, all 10 weeks, or anything in between. AA4K is truly where the summer meets the stage — it's all about bright lights, bright futures, and delightful productions that the whole family will love. There are life lessons, too... theatre camps build strong, resilient performers who learn to overcome challenges that come their way.

This summer is particularly special for Stephen as his son will be making his return to the Z Playhouse stage per his request since he had so much fun last summer! He dreamed of the day when he would see his own children perform at AA4K, and he's delighted that they can join dozens of theatre-loving kids in a place that makes them (and everyone) feel very com-

fortable. Always a safe space for students and kids, camps will again occur at the Z Playhouse in Mission Viejo and Lyceum Village in Irvine. "Both places create a space that feels like a second home," Stephen says.

The local longtime camp has not only produced theatre majors who return each summer to be counselors but has also unlocked professional opportunities for some very talented students. Three of Stephen's students were recently cast in an upcoming Netflix show, and others have moved on to pursue studies and careers in the arts. One camper's parent told him AA4K camps changed her daughter's life. "She told me, 'My daughter loves being part of your theatre. It's everything to her.' I mean, WOW!" he recalls. There's plenty of positivity, creativity, and good energy in each fun-filled week.

Yet, at AA4K, it's not just summer camps—theatre is a yearlong production! Teen auditions are

The Z Playhouse is busy and bustling at any time of year. It hosts full-scale children's and adult productions, piano and voice lessons, and even stand-up comedy shows.

For those eager to enroll or seek further information about AA4K, a visit to ActingAcademyForKids.com or a call to 949-427-0072 is all it takes. Aspiring directors, choreographers, or summer camp counselors are encouraged to email ActingAcademy4Kids@gmail.com with their re sumes. Give your kids a sprinkle of theatrical magic—start planning now for an unforgettable experience.

The City of Dana Point Community Services Department is excited to offer a variety of NEW Summer Camp experiences for ages 5-17!

EARLY REGISTRATION DISCOUNTS END MAY 15TH

949 VOLLEYBALL CLUB

949 Volleyball Club, celebrating 15 years in San Juan Capistrano, provides summer camps for both boys and girls, ages 9 to 18, at any ability level. The club has won 12 Junior Olympic medals, as well as 6 National Championships at the 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 Junior National Championships. The summer camp’s goal is to teach beginners the fundamentals of the game and to prepare juniors and seniors looking to compete in the NCAA. 949 Volleyball Club promotes sportsmanlike behavior inside and outside of the gym, instills the values of integrity, dedication and hard work, and focuses on having fun! Space is limited; please register early. For more information, contact Justin directly at 949.374.2890 or visit 949vb.com. (see p. 11)

ACTING ACADEMY FOR KIDS

Acting Academy for Kids’ Performing Arts Camp offers two family-friendly South OC locations this year — Z Playhouse in Mission Viejo and Lyceum Village in Irvine/Tustin. Daily classes in music, acting, and dance immerse kids, ages 5 to 14, in an authentic performing arts experience. The week-long camps are each guided by professional educators and culminate in a student-centered production with sets, costumes, and lights. Ten distinct week-long programs run from June 3 to August 9. The “core camp” rate is $389 per week with multi-camp and sibling discounts. Go to ActingAcademyforKids.com for details and production schedules. (see p. 8)

BRAIN BUILDERS

Brain Builders puts the “STEAM” in education — science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. Weekly summer camps start in June and children, ages 5 to 16, will learn concepts such as energy, thermodynamics, gravity, coding and more in camps such as Engineering with LEGO, Robotics, Wood Shop, Video Game Design and 3d Printing! Themed camps are structured, goal-oriented and are either a half or a full-day. Sign up for an in-person camp at the Laguna Niguel or Tustin location. Get fee info and registration details at BrainBuildersEd.org and put on your thinking cap. Use promo code "DISH24" to receive 5% off any camp. (see p. 18)

CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS JUNIOR LIFEGUARDS

Dive into summer adventure with California State Parks Junior Lifeguards at Doheny and San Clemente State Beaches! Sessions run from June 10 to August 16, offering three action-packed opportunities to become a water safety expert. Mark your calendars for tryouts on April 27, May 4, and May 11 at San Clemente High School. Participants will not only have a blast but also gain valuable knowledge about ocean safety, teamwork, and leadership. It's an unforgettable summer experience where adventure meets learning! (see p. 16)

CAMP JAMES

Located near the scenic Back Bay at Newport Dunes in Newport Beach, Camp James has been an Orange County Tradition for 35 years and was awarded “Best Day Camp” for 2016 by Parenting OC Magazine. Ages 5 to 17 will enjoy adventures and make happy memories through a variety of activities: archery, stand-up-paddleboards, STEM, watersports, drama, a climbing wall, an inflatable water park, mini-golf, laser-tag, dance, karate, fishing, crafts and more. Children love Camp James’ caring, award-winning staff, theme weeks, and crazy special events. Parents love the flexible scheduling, outstanding reputation, extended hours, and the ACA Accreditation. Go to CampJames.com to learn more. (see p. 18)

CAMULOS FARM

Camulos Farm offers an exciting summer Horse Camp for your child! This exhilarating camp includes daily riding, horsemanship, barn tasks, and loads of fun, emphasizing the special bond between horse and rider. Starting June 17th, with three sessions available, it's the perfect summer adventure. Campers will dive into horse care and English-style riding, guided by daily lessons on the unique connection with these majestic animals.

Running Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., spots are limited. Don't miss out on this memorable experience—book now! For details or to reserve, visit SaraBlannTraining.com or text 760.484.6564. (see p. 15)

LET’S GO! SUMMER CAMPS BY CITY OF DANA POINT

The City of Dana Point is excited to offer a variety of summer camps at the Dana Point Community Center for kids ages 5 to 17. The summer camp lineup includes musical theater, baseball, soccer, tennis, pickleball, cooking, robot building, animation, cultures around the world, jewelry design, quilt making, science, arts & crafts, cartooning and comic creation, and more! Registration is currently open, with early registration discounts ending May 15th. To view the full class schedule with detailed descriptions, visit bit.ly/DPRecreation. (see p. 9)

DANMAN'S DANA POINT MUSIC

Celebrating 25 years! Danman’s Dana Point Music offers five weeks of kid’s summer camps starting June 10. Campers learn band creation, setlist preparation, and live show delivery within Monday through Friday sessions. Alongside making friends, campers create a band poster, undergo a photoshoot, and rehearse for the live performance. The camp concludes with a live set at StillWater on Friday. Professional music teachers instruct on guitar, piano, drums, bass, and vocals. Bring this ad or register by May 1 for $25 off. Camps are $350 per week, inclusive of snacks and drinks. Also available is a Chess Camp for all ages/skill levels, priced at only $40. Visit Danmans.com or call 949.496.6556 for more information. (see p. 17)

HEAT CULINARY

Register your kid for a week-long HEAT Culinary Camp offering two themes — International Pastry & Desserts and World Cuisine! During this week of cooking, your kids will have fun, learn new skills and bring home great recipes that will impress family and friends. They will gain basic cooking techniques from roasting and grilling to baking and desserts, all with interesting flavors from around the world. Each day will be full of delicious food and hands on cooking as they make new friends in the HEAT kitchen. Ages 8 to 12 years old. Parent permission slip required. (see p. 19)

KG BEACH CAMPS

KG Beach Camps has been a part of the Dana Point Harbor since 1987. Children, ages 4 to 13, enjoy a variety of activities offered from three different camps based out of Baby Beach, near the Ocean Institute. Age-appropriate camps range from the Mini Minnows (ages 4 to 6) to Beach Safari (ages 6 to 9), and H20 Adventures (ages 9 to 13). Campers participate in activities such as trips to the local tidepools, crab hunting, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, kayaking, rowing, whale watching on Dolphin Dave's Catamaran Safari, beach games, crafts and so much more. Camps fill up fast, so book early. Camps run from June 17 through August 9. Call 949.842.5211 or email SummerBeachCamps@gmail.com for more information. (see p. 17)

Laguna Niguel School of Music

The Laguna Niguel School of Music invites attendees to its summer programs, offering week-long music camps and weekly lessons. Participants, both adults and children, embark on a journey of musical and artistic creativity, fostering positive experiences, critical thinking skills, and self-confidence while honing superior technical abilities. With a focus on singular, unique approaches and superior teaching methods deeply rooted in childcentered education philosophies, the school facilitates an environment where students not only learn but thrive. Students attend to gain confidence, overcome obstacles, and experience healing through music, ultimately emerging as creative, thoughtful, and proficient musicians. Visit LagunaNiguelSchoolOfMusic.com to learn more. (see p. 15)

LIL' KICKERS

What do puppies, sharks, aliens and soccer have in common? Lil’ Kickers! Lil’ Kickers is a child development program filled with creativity, high energy activities and loads of fun. The summer program features the award-winning Lil’ Kickers curriculum, multi-sport games and a special science/ crafts curriculum. Each activity is led by professional teachers and coaches to ensure the highest quality program in a safe and comfortable environment. Lil’ Kickers South OC offers a half day program in which you can sign up for one, two, three days or an entire week to receive a discount. Register online at LilKickersSouthOC.com. (see p. 11)

LOS RIOS ROCK SCHOOL

Beginner/Intermediate and Advanced Rock Camps are available at Los Rios Rock School in San Juan Capistrano! Pick from seven fun, full-week camps for ages 6 to 17, offering hands-on, live music training and playing with the best instructors and facility in Orange County. Parents, friends and family are invited to see campers live in concert on a professional stage on the last day of camp. Camp tuition is $399 for new students. When enrolling, be sure to ask about the “multiple camper” discount! Camps run Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. To enroll, please visit LosRiosRockSchool.com/SummerCamps. For details, call 949.456.1081 x700 or email Schedule@LosRiosRockSchool.com. (see p. 11)

MATHNASIUM LEARNING CENTERS

Mathnasium provides students with a customized learning plan and the personalized instruction they need to build their confidence and transform their math skills. Our expert instructors don’t just teach students to memorize or calculate, but to truly understand the way math works. This is why Mathnasium students make huge strides in the classroom and become more motivated and self-assured overall. Mathnasium is North America’s leading math-only supplemental education franchise. Since 2002 the Mathnasium Method™ — the result of decades of hands-on instruction and development — has been transforming the lives of children in grades K-12, helping them understand, master and love math. For more information, visit Mathnasium.com. (see p. 16)

Academic Camp s

D a y Camp s

Specia l t y Camp s Spor t s Camp s

Registration Now Open!

Get ready for an epic summer filled with hands-on activities where your child can explore new skills, have a blast, and make new friends We offer a variety of summer camps, from day camps, sports camps, and academic adventures to specialty camps, allowing you to create a unique experience and unforgettable memories. Campers enjoy sports, STEM projects, arts, crafts, music, dance, drama, and more. Give them a summer filled with epic moments and unforgettable memories!

Spaces Are Limited ■ Sign Up Today ies Welcome Learning

santa Drive (949) 458-1776

ornia campus Altadena

SAN CLEMENTE JUNIOR LIFEGUARDS

SWIM TEST:

Saturdays 9:00-10:30am

March 30 & April 6

San Clemente Aquatics Center

Wednesday 6-7:30pm

April 3

Ole Hanson Beach Club

SESSION I: June 10 - June 28

SESSION II: July 1 - July 19

SESSION III: July 22-Aug 9

AM Program: 9am-12pm

PM Program: 1pm-4pm

SUMMER

CAMPS Preschool THROUGH Grade 8*

SAN CLEMENTE DANCE

Voted #1 Dance Studio in San Clemente! Beginners or advanced participants, from ages 3 to adults, can choose from a wide range of options. Weekly summer sessions with once-a-week classes and week-long dance camps are available. Young dancers, ages 3 to 7, can join week-long camps filled with arts & crafts, story time, snacks, fun, and games. Intensive workshops for beginning, intermediate, and advanced dancers featuring hip-hop, jazz, ballet, tap, musical theater, and tumbling are also offered at SCDPAC and taught by some of California’s top instructors. For information on week-long Dance Intensives and additional camp and class registrations, visit SanClementeDance.com or call 949.498.7571. Auditions for their Nationally ranked competition company, Element 5, will be held in June! (see p. 16)

SAN CLEMENTE JUNIOR LIFEGUARDS

The San Clemente Junior Lifeguard Program is an ocean and beach safety program for young people ages 9 to 16. Participants receive education and experience in ocean safety, first aid, rescue techniques, body surfing, board surfing, physical fitness, and Marine Safety operations. This funfilled, three-week program meets just north of the San Clemente Pier. New participants must first pass a mandatory swim test to be eligible to register for the Junior Lifeguard Program. The next swim tests are on March 30, April 3, and April 6. Visit the JG website at San-Clemente.org/jg or call 949.361.8261 to learn more. (see p. 13)

SAN JUAN HILLS GOLF CLUB

Exciting news from San Juan Hills Golf Club! Mitch Mathieu and Alika Chow are thrilled to lead another summer of golf camps that are dedicated to introducing youth to the joys of golf. Designed for ages 7 and up, with a low instructor/ student ratio of 6:1, these camps prioritize personalized instruction. Beginning on June 10th and spanning six weeks, Monday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. (excluding the 4th of July week), each day is thoughtfully curated to maximize junior golfers' experiences. With light snacks provided and beverages available throughout the day, young golfers can focus on honing their skills. Enrollment is simple at SanJuanHillsGolf.com, with camps priced at $390. (see p. 18)

SANDLOT TRAINING CENTER

Located at professional skateboarder Ryan Sheckler’s private indoor skatepark in San Clemente, Sandlot Training Center offers skate lessons, camps, and parties. Our weeklong summer camps are geared for ages 6-12, with highly skilled coaches teaching the fundamentals of skateboarding in a fun instructional environment. Our goal is to help your skater improve on their current skateboarding skillset while making lifelong friends and building self-confidence along the way. (see p. 17)

SOUTH COAST CONSERVATORY

Join South Coast conservatory for an awesome 32nd Anniversary Summer! Learn new things and meet new friends all summer long! Five-day camps for ages 4 to 10 including HipHop, Ballet, Cheer, Acting & Singing, and Circus Tricks! Choose a specialized dance intensive for intermediate and advanced levels (ages 7 to 17). All camps end with a show on the final day and extended camp options are available! All classes are taught by certified instructors who are focused on your child’s safety and happiness. Visit scconservatory.com/summer for more info or call 949.367.0099. (see p. 15)

STRATFORD SCHOOLS

Stratford Schools has meticulously crafted the ideal camp experience for your child, blending beloved activities with essential safety measures and flexible scheduling. Academic Camps provide a platform for nurturing your child's passion for learning, focusing on specific subjects. Our Day Camp presents a diverse range of indoor and outdoor activities, including field trips incorporated into all programs. The Inspirational Specialty Camps offer hands-on experiences to unearth new skills and talents. At Summer@Stratford, campers delve into exhilarating STEM projects, arts, crafts, music, dance, drama, and more. Witness the remarkable moments they're poised to achieve! Discover further details by visiting us online at stratfordschools.com/summer. (see p. 13)

TSTREET VOLLEYBALL

Ranked as the #1 Volleyball Club in Orange County, Tstreet is centrally located in the Irvine Spectrum area. Tstreet offers a full range of positionspecific, general skills, sand camps and clinics throughout the summer. Training is open to boys and girls and the program caters to elite as well as introductory level athletes. Tstreet was founded by two-time Olympic Gold Medalist coach and player Troy Tanner who brings his philosophy of “achieving one’s highest potential” to the club. Proper movement patterns and mechanics, repetitions, feedback, and fun are emphasized in all camps! Indoor training takes place at the club's gym in Irvine. Sand training takes place at the OC Great Park and the brand new sand courts in San Juan Capistrano on the Fairmont campus. Sign up online at TstreetVolleyball.com. (see p. 13)

VARIANT MOVEMENT

Variant Movement is an elite, competitive, competition team providing quality training and choreography for dancers in San Juan Capistrano. They offer classes for all ages and an exclusive platform for ambitious dancers seeking to elevate their performances through rigorous choreography training. Emphasizing quality over quantity, Variant Movement prioritizes excellent technique training and choreography while valuing the time and dedication of its dancers. (see p. 18)

WESTWIND SAILING

Welcome aboard! Westwind has been providing educational boating programs for the community since 1987. Programs include sailing camps, SUP camps, Adaptive sailing, afterschool programs and boating classes for all ages and skill levels. Youth day camps are offered during Spring Break and all summer. Westwind is the 2023 Dana Point People’s Choice for “Best Camp for Kids” and is a sanctioned U.S. Sailing, Community Sailing Center and STEM Hub. Camp scholarships are available from Cal Boating and the Dana Point Aquatic Foundation (contact Westwind Sailing directly for details). Find Westwind at the OC Sailing & Events Center in Dana Point Harbor. Call 949.492.3035 for more information. (see p. 19)

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Mathnasium of Dana Point (949) 240-6284

Mathnasium of Ladera Ranch (949) 429-3020

Mathnasium of Laguna Niguel (949) 360-6284

Mathnasium of San Clemente (949) 481-6284

June

JULY

JULY

June 26 - 30

July

July

July 17 - 25

SUMMER CAMP!

10 Weeks of Fun! (for ages 5-17)

OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, April 28 From 1pm - 3:30pm

Archery • Sports • Swimming

• Karate • Kayak Lazer Tag • Stand-Up Paddleboards • Canoes Creating Magical Summers for Over 30 Years!

Ages 7 & Up

SJH’s Junior Golf Programs provide the foundation for kids to enjoy golf for years to come. Offering year-long programs taught by Golf Professionals, our team of Professionals take great pride in educating today’s youth in all aspects of the game.

Camp dates: 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Week 1: June 10 – 13

Week 2: June 17 – 20

Week 3: June 24 – 27

Week 4: July 8 – 11

Week 5: July 15 – 18

week 6: July 22 – 25

$390 per child

Q: Why does it seem like I am always arguing with my loved ones?

Bottomless Mimosa Brunch

Sundried Tomato

SJC 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Don’t Dress for Dinner

Camino Real Playhouse

SJC 2 p.m.

21

Earth Day Yoga & Beach Cleanup

1 – Free Kids

Smoothie with $8 Purchase Clean Juice

DP 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.

28

Smokey Karaoke

BeachFire

SC 8 p.m.

APRIL

Preschool Storytime

Tax Preparation Services

San Clemente Library SC 11:15 a.m. – 12 p.m. 10 3

Sea Country Center

LN 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Mark Paul Band BeachFire SC 7 p.m.

Taco Tuesday Ricardo’s Place

SJC 2 – 9 p.m.

23

Trivia Night

Patsy’s Irish Pub

LN 7 p.m.

Taco Tuesday Beachfire

SC 4 – 9 p.m.

Consultation, exam, chiro treatment and 50-min massage

ONLY $143 ($240 Value!)

One coupon per customer.

O er expires 4/30/24.

Consultation, exam + 3 laser treatments

ONLY $134 ($325 Value!)

One coupon per customer.

O er expires 4/30/24.

Consultation, exam and chiropractic treatment

ONLY $79 ($155 Value!)

Consultation, exam and 50-min therapeutic massage

ONLY $68 ($85 Value!)

ULI JON ROTH

TOM KEIFER

GILBERT

O’SULLIVAN

JOAN OSBORNE

/ JACK TEMPCHIN

4/25 ISRAEL VIBRATION

& Roots Radics

4/26 FIVE FOR FIGHTING w/ stRing QuaRtet

4/27 KIDS OF CHARLEMAGNE (steeLy dan tRibute)

4/28 BOB ANDERSON (FRanK sinatRa tRibute)

5/4 STEVE TYRELL

5/5 OINGO BOINGO FORMER MEMBERS

5/7 BLUES TRAVELER

5/8 JUDY COLLINS

5/9 CALIFORNIA GUITAR TRIO

5/11 PAT BOONE

5/15 MR BIG - The Big Finish Tour 5/17 JOHN CRUZ

5/18 VENICE

5/19 THE LETTERMEN

5/22 THE WAILERS

5/24 DSB (JouRney tRibute)

5/26 BLACKHAWK

5/31 YACHTY BY NATURE

6/6 HOWIE DAY

6/7 ROBERT JON & The Wreck

6/9 GARY HOEY

6/14 AMBROSIA

6/15 CHEST FEVER (tHe band tRibute)

6/16 ELVIN BISHOP Big Fun Trio

6/21 DESPERADO (eagLes tRibute)

6/22 DESPERADO (eagLes tRibute)

6/29 SKELETON CREW (gRateFuL dead tRibute)

7/5 WALTER MICHAELS BAND

7/6 SHINE ON (PinK FLoyd tRibute)

7/13 FAST TIMES

- The Ultimate 80s Tribute!

7/20 Y&T 50th Anniversary

7/27 BOB SCHNEIDER

7/28 BOBBY GRAY

8/3 CUBENSIS (gRateFuL dead tRibute)

8/17 PIANO MEN: GENERATIONS (biLLy JoeL and eLton JoHn tRibute)

8/23 SUPER DIAMOND

FABULOUS THUNDERBIRDS

TATE

8/24 SUPER DIAMOND

8/31 MICK ADAMS & THE STONES

9/8 an evening witH JOHN LYDON

“I Could Be Right, I Could Be Wrong”

9/14 JOURNEY USA (JouRney tRibute)

9/15 BENISE: Fiesta!

9/22 JANE MONHEIT 9/27 DAVE MASON

10/3 ZEBRA 10/18 GARY PUCKETT

& THE UNION GAP

Casey McCants Owner