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August 11, 2003
Summer Camp
Cheesebus and I coughed up $8.50 and went to see Camp at the Cobble Hill Cinemas last night. Though pretty damn stupid (and rather poorly acted), I must admit that my heart went a little soft while watching it. Camp is destined to become just that-- a cult camp movie. But it's also more than that-- though a bit generalized, the film should evoke a little bit of misty memory from anyone who's ever attended a performing arts summer camp. For me, that was Usdan.
Let me preface by saying that I've never been a theater kid. I've generally shied away from the performing side of the arts...as well as the social arenas that encompass them. Aside from a short and painful stint with ballet and a summer or two of (I can't believe I'm saying this) chorus, callalillie has generally found her home in the darkroom and art studios of this world.
That is why Usdan was so special to me-- it was a spectacular, albeit privileged, place to spend one's summer. Located on 150 acres of land in Huntington, NY (Long Island, for those not familiar), Usdan offered classes in the fine arts...everything from music, theater, writing, and arts. You were taught by artists and had the opportunity to see performances (daily, in assembly) by performers such as the Tokyo String Quartet, the Philharmonic, and casts from various Broadway shows. You had a "major" and a "minor" focus, no counselors that chaperoned you from class to class, and a lot of freedom.
Though I'm not in touch with many of the talented people that I attended Usdan with, they've popped up here and there throughout my life in very odd places. It's actually kind of neat. Looking back on it, Usdan was probably one of the best things I did each summer. Even if the gypsy moths seemed rabid and you had to change for swimming in an open-air bathhouse in front of everyone.
And, of course, the most important part! One of Usdan's notable alumnae is Mariah Carey. How's that for camp? Anyone got some glitter?
Posted by callalillie at August 11, 2003 7:35 AM |
"Though I'm not in touch with many of the talented people that I attended Usdan with, they've popped up here and there throughout my life in very odd places"- case in point...one email already from some one from work who worked there. Go figure!
Posted by: Corie at August 11, 2003 9:56 AM
Was the bathhouse coed?! LOL
Posted by: ChrisM at August 12, 2003 9:37 AM
