A vibrant performance of “Defying Gravity” filled the air at Morningside University’s Eppley Auditorium on a Wednesday morning, a highlight of the Lamb Theatre’s EWE-niversity summer camp. Students from first to twelfth grade showcased their talents during the camp’s concluding event, titled “One Wicked Summer,” which featured a medley of songs from popular musicals like “The Wizard of Oz,” “The Wiz,” and “Wicked.” For the past 37 years, this program has provided children with essential skills in music and theater through a series of engaging workshops.
The summer camp, run by Russ and Diana Wooley, consists of two sessions held during June and July. While younger participants focus on basic acting techniques in a reader’s theater format, older students engage in more advanced activities, including improvisation and scriptwriting. This year’s camp culminated in an exciting performance that displayed the students’ hard work and dedication.
Supervised by Brock Bourek, manager of theater operations at Lamb Theatre and an adjunct professor at Morningside University, the camp emphasizes creativity and teamwork. Bourek shared his own experience: “I first got involved in theater in the third grade. I had a passion for performing right away. I see many of these kids have a similar love of the theater.”
EWE-niversity students dedicate a significant amount of time to the program, participating in daily three-hour sessions for three weeks. For returning students like Annie Stewart, aged 8, the experience is rewarding. “Last year, I didn’t know what to expect,” she reflected. “But I had so much fun I had to come back this year.” This sentiment resonates with many participants who return annually, making the camp a cherished summer tradition.
The performance showcased a diverse range of talent, with older students taking on roles in directing and choreography. Fourteen-year-old Maggie Bauerley, who has attended the camp since she was five, expressed her enthusiasm for the program. “With the exception of two summers, I’ve been to every EWE-niversity theater camp,” she noted. Maggie’s dedication reflects the nurturing environment that EWE-niversity strives to create.
The skills learned at EWE-niversity extend beyond the stage. Bourek emphasized the importance of developing communication skills and self-confidence. “What we’re really teaching kids are communication skills, being able to think on their feet and have confidence in themselves,” he stated. These abilities are advantageous in various aspects of life, whether the students choose to pursue a career in the arts or other fields.
As the summer camp concluded with the concert on July 5, 2025, the atmosphere was filled with excitement and camaraderie. Participants brought to life the magic of the Emerald City through their performances, embodying characters and stories that have captivated audiences for generations.
The EWE-niversity program continues to be a vital part of the Sioux City community, fostering creativity and passion in young performers. Each year, the camp leaves a lasting impact, encouraging students to embrace their talents and pursue their dreams, whether on stage or beyond. As Bourek remarked, “We always have a good time. This is why so many students come back every year.”
