The Ambler Theater is excited to introduce our Film Camp programs this summer! We will have two separate week-long camp experiences, the first with our “Elements of Film” curriculum and the second with our “Intro to to Filmmaking” curriculum. Registration for our 2026 summer programs will open on Monday, February 2nd.

Elements of Film: June 15th to June 19th, 9am to 3pm Open to rising 5th through 7th graders

While engaging in hands-on activities and guided viewing of short films, campers will explore film history and visual literacy through key cinematic elements, such as story, sound, and camera technique. Additionally, campers will have the opportunity to hone their director’s eye starting with storyboarding sessions and seeing what it takes to turn their ideas into mini film projects, using intuitive filmmaking software.

This 5-day camp will impart a discerning sense of storytelling and the visual arts that will not only serve budding filmmakers and content creators but any young person who wants to be a conscientious consumer of all media.

Tuition is $500 for the general public and $475 for theater members.

Register

Intro to Filmmaking: June 22nd to June 26th, 9am to 3pm Open to rising 6th through 8th graders

In this program, we will dive into the essentials of filmmaking, using more advanced equipment and software than is utilized in the “Elements of Film” curriculum. Campers will learn the importance of different jobs on a film set and how to begin writing for the screen, all while further honing their shooting and editing skills.

Using DSLR cameras and more sophisticated editing software, campers will work as a team to produce a short film with a shared vision that they can be proud of by the end of the week. while learning how to work as a team. Families will be invited to a special screening of the finished products at the end of the week.

Tuition is $600 for the general public and $575 for theater members.

Please note that the “Elements of Film” curriculum, or some equivalent, is a prerequisite for “Intro to Filmmaking.” Both camps can be attended together this summer by rising 6th and 7th graders. Campers returning from last year are particularly encouraged to consider “Intro to Filmmaking.”

Register

We will be offering need based scholarships this year based on funding. If you would like to apply for one, please send a completed application to our director of education, Julia Mahony, at jmahony@renewtheaters.org.

Download the application »

Make a donation to support our camps. Donations support scholarships and offsite programs in Trenton. Film Camp is essential to our mission to provide educational experiences for our community. It's an opportunity for young minds to explore the art of storytelling and filmmaking.

Together, we can help these students discover their passion for film, and set them on the path to becoming tomorrow's storytellers.

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How many campers will there be? We will have 10 to 15 campers in “Elements of Film” and 10 to 12 campers in “Intro to Filmmaking.”

When is payment due? Payment is due at the time of registration.

Is lunch provided? No. Campers should bring a bagged lunch with them. We are able to keep the lunches refrigerated as well as heat them up in a microwave.

Will there be outdoor activities? On days when the weather allows, we may go on brief excursions on foot around town.

Do we need to provide our own cameras or devices? No. We will have a supply of refurbished iPhones that campers can use in small groups for Elements of Film.

For “Intro to Filmmaking,” campers do not need to bring their own devices. We will provide DSLR cameras and laptops for shooting and editing, as well as iPhones for shorter activities

Should you bring water bottles? Yes.

Do you have a refrigerator to keep lunches cold? Yes.

Are there snacks provided? Popcorn and other light, prepackaged snacks will be provided. Campers are welcome to bring their own snacks in addition to lunch if they’d like.

What else should my child bring to camp? Your child should wear comfortable clothing that is easy to move around in. A sweatshirt and sunscreen are recommended – layering will be useful as outdoors will be warm but the AC makes the theaters cool.

Do you offer after care between 3pm and 5pm? Unfortunately, we are not able to offer aftercare.

Who will be running the camp? Julia Mahony, the Ambler Theater’s Educational Programs Director, will be in charge of running the camps. Julia holds an MA in English Literature and has worked as a teacher with students ranging from elementary school to college.

Where do I find out more about day to day activities? Parents of registered campers will be given a sample itinerary featuring potential short films and clips that will be screened. More details on the activities and lessons will be forthcoming as we approach the camp’s start date.

What is your cancellation policy? Registrants can receive a full refund through May 31st. Staring on June 1st registrants can receive a 50% refund.