On May 30, just two weeks after the opening of Highland Square’s Mustard Seed Market, Akron’s West Hill saw the opening of another asset – the Akron Center for Art, Music and Performance (ACAMP, as it’s known to the acronymically hip).
Set above Time Traveler Records on West Market Street, ACAMP is an “art school” where seasoned professionals and burgeoning amateurs can expand their repertoire or experiment with something entirely new. The goal is to provide something for everyone, especially those who have always had that one thing on their artistic bucket list. The Center is well on the way to accomplishing its goal; its list of teachers reads like a veritable who’s who of Akron’s creative class. (Justin Tibbs is teaching sax, Amy Mothersbaugh is teaching art and Kyle Jozsa of Wandering Aesthetics is teaching theatre- to name just a few.)
ACAMP’s inaugural party was an all day art festival and open house. Prospective students could mingle with teachers while listening to music, coloring Mothersbaugh’s imaginative octopi creations or enjoying the patio designed by Ben and Seth Gravatt of Multi-Men Universal. Even the rain didn’t keep people away, as over 150 people stopped by the festival throughout the day!
Classes and workshops have already begun at ACAMP. For up-to-date information or to see ACAMP’s extensive list of offerings, visit: www.facebook.com/AkronCAMP.
Miller South’s Commedia dell’Arte troupe charmed parents and guests with an improvised comic performance. The troupe’s outgoing director – Wendy Duke – is offering classes at ACAMP. (Photo: John R. Aylward)
“Patio under construction!” Ben and Seth Gravatt used giant wooden spools to construct a patio wall and sitting area. ACAMP oozes creativity – even outside! (Photo: John R. Aylward)
William Tomlinson, who owns VENIA Antiques and Treasures, was one of many vendors who set up in the parking lot for the day (at least before the rain). William, a recent transplant to Akron, will be teaching acting classes at ACAMP. (Photo: John R. Aylward)
Kyle Jozsa of Wandering Aesthetics entertains audiences with one of his trademark “spooky” stories. Kyle is teaching two youth Summer Theatre CAMPS at the center this year. Students will learn the theatrical basics while working together to craft their own version of a fairytale! (Photo: John R. Aylward)
Some circus artists got in the on the day’s fun; there were flow artists, unicycle riders and hoopers galore! Their talents only looked more impressive at night when they broke out their LED equipment. (Photo: John R. Aylward)
Jonathon James Smith of the band Anchor the Moon learned to juggle work/life responsibilities (Just kidding! He learned to juggle balls.) before taking the stage. (Photo: John R. Aylward)
It poured outside and inside as Raine performed a mix of original and cover songs on the indoor stage. (Photo: John R. Aylward)
The Help and The Hands. Basically they rocked too hard for there to be anything left to say… (Photo by John R. Aylward)
…Except that it got Kristie Lehay and this unknown woman dancing! The Help and The Hands got the whole crowd dancing in the streets. (Or parking lot, but the image still stands.) (Photo: John R. Aylward)
Scott Shepard graciously kept Time Traveler Records open late, allowing bands to play in his back room to avoid the rain! Before or after class at ACAMP, students can mosey on downstairs to peruse Time Traveler’s abundant music collection. Support #AkronMusicScene! (Photo: John R. Aylward)
For more pictures from the ACAMP open house, visit here.
