All the Action of Week One at Advanced Camp

Editor’s Note: This post was written by Camp Photographer & Communications Assistant Elly Craig
There have been so many wonderful things happening this week at smirkus camp.
Our Roadshow campers launched into their first tour performances, kicking things off with a high-energy show at the Craftsbury Blueberry Festival on Saturday. The turnout was great—loud cheers and delighted hoots escaped people’s lips as the campers poured their hearts into every act. After the show, director Fritz shared that he felt renewed with the magic of collaborating with such passionate young artists. Their dedication, authenticity, and strong sense of community radiated both onstage and off.
The whole camp soaked up the sunshine on Thursday with a much-needed beach trip—and a special performance by the world-renowned Secret Circus. This street show contained a mix of clowning, audience participation, partner acrobatics, unicycling, and even a plunger-and-arrow stunt! It was an inspiring reminder that the skills we’re honing at camp can come to life in fun, accessible, and wildly creative ways. Jumping into the lake afterwards sealed the day with laughter and splash-filled joy.
Evenings have been just as lively. A recent lip sync battle brought the house down, featuring numbers from Six the Musical, a funny Brooklyn 99 dub, and an adorable tribute to a beloved camper from last session.
Around camp, the energy is high. Human pyramids are stacking tall. Campers are testing out Spanish web, juggling everything in sight, learning card tricks, trying back handsprings and tucks, and frolicking at every chance. As always, there’s a general air of tomfoolery and camaraderie floating over everything like glitter.
I can’t wait to see what the rest of Advanced Camp brings—and even more, what these brilliant campers bring into the world. They’re going places, no doubt about it.
