Sunshine Generation teaching performance without pressure

Sunshine Generation has a 30-year history as an internationally recognized, non-auditioning children’s performing group. The Maricopa studio opened last August and is planning a back-to-school camp, as well as regular season classes.

Area director Amber Duve said, “I decided to bring Sunshine Generation to Maricopa after I had been teaching theater through parks and recreation. I quickly realized there was an interest for performing arts in the community.”

Sunshine Generation is a unique program that introduces children to performing skills through singing, dancing and showmanship. The environment in which the children learn is a positive one and, because there are no tryouts, it dismisses any negative or discouraging pressure children might encounter.

“I have had students who were initially scared to even stand near the microphone and, after a few classes, were jumping up to sing their hearts out. I especially appreciate the confidence I see building in each one of my students,” said Duve.

The studio’s Back to School Camp will be held Tuesday, Aug.18, through Saturday, Aug. 22, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday through Friday. Saturday’s camp hours will be 9 to 11 a.m., followed by an end of camp performance that afternoon.

“Kids enrolled in the camp will receive dance, music and theatre instruction from specialists in the community. The performance on Saturday will be at an indoor amusement center with play and food to follow. This is all included in the price of the camp, which is $60,” added Duve.

Duve said she will offer a discount and a free Sunshine Generation t-shirt for those who register by Aug. 7. She also said she can offer discounts for siblings who participate in regular season classes. “And a big bonus is the first class is always free.”

Regular season instruction for Sunshine Generation will begin in September with classes for three separate age groups: 3-5 years, 6-8 years and 9-12 years. Classes for the 3-5 age group will be held on Tuesday afternoons. The other two age groups will meet on Thursday afternoons. New this year will be a Saturday class for all three age groups.

“Currently I teach all regular season classes myself, with help from parents and other teachers during performances. We are hoping to have at least three performances before the holidays, including Kids Day, Founders Day and our regular show for parents. I feel very fortunate to be doing something that combines two of my favorite things, working with children and the performing arts,” Duve said.

For further information, visit www.maricopasunshinegeneration.blogspot.com or contact Duve at 520-568-0223.

Submitted photo