NYC Region Summer Camp for the Arts

Chess

Usdan’s chess summer camp program follows the principles of the National Scholastic Chess Foundation and is uniquely designed to meet the needs of each student, whether they are new to chess or are experienced competitors. The Usdan Chess Ladder groups students in varying levels, from absolute novices to advanced tournament players. New players learn rules, notation, and the opening, middle, and end games. Advanced players develop a vast repertoire of complex strategies and the ability to apply them shrewdly in-game. All of our chess players benefit from improved problem solving, critical thinking, and concentration.  Students hone their skills through game-play and tutoring in competitive chess tournaments and exciting team competitions. Individual and group lessons are conducted by highly-ranked tournament players with decades of experience.  A major highlight of our chess summer camp is that celebrated chess masters come to Usdan to serve as guest teachers and share their expertise with our young players.

For more detailed information, please visit our Classes page.

Dance

In our summer dance program, our dancers study technique, classic repertory, and original choreography with nationally renowned dancers and choreographers. We offer classes across a wide range of styles and traditions, including contemporary dance, ballet, jazz, hip hop, funk and tap. 

Instruction at our dance camp is rigorous, caring and fun.  Our studios are spacious and mirrored, with soft floors and generous skylights that give an open-air effect. Each class culminates in a freshly choreographed dance performance for the entire community, including friends and family, in the dance department studios or on Usdan’s main stage.

Ranking Model

Students participating in the Dance Department will rank their class choices according to the listed offerings. On the enrollment form, students will be asked to rank their first, second, and third choice for their major, minor or recreational activity. After review in late January, Usdan will announce Dance class offerings based on student interest. A placement form will be sent after enrollment. Usdan staff will try to place students in their top ranked class, however, it may not always be possible based on levels and scheduling. 

Please note, Junior students, with the exception of 4th graders, who choose to major in Dance will have two classes to rank instead of three.  

Junior Majors (2nd-3rd)

• Dance Adventure
• Choreography

Junior Majors (4th)

• Dance Adventure
• Contemporary Forms
• Choreography

Junior Majors (5th & 6th)

• Contemporary Forms
• Choreography

Senior Majors (6th-12th)

• Contemporary Forms
• Choreography
• Ballet
• Hip Hop
• Ballet/Hip Hop

Junior Minors (2nd-6th)

• Tap
• Broadway Jazz
• Contemporary Forms
• West African Fusion
• Hip Hop

Senior Minors (6th-12th)

• Tap
• Broadway Jazz
• Contemporary Forms
• West African Fusion
• Hip Hop

2020 MAJORS

Ballet; Ballet/Hip Hop; Choreography; Contemporary Forms; Dance Adventure; Hip Hop;

2020 MINORS

Broadway Jazz; Contemporary Forms; Hip Hop; Tap; West African Fusion; Yoga.

Nature

In our hands-on nature program, students study the art of planting, growing and cultivating food by caring for Usdan’s own fruit and vegetable gardens. Exploring the flora and fauna in Usdan’s idyllic woodland forest allows students to understand the delicate relationships at the heart of Long Island’s vibrant local ecosystem. In an innovative course on sustainable art, students are challenged to combine art, science and empathy to identify creative and sustainable solutions to pressing environmental problems. Students also care for the Nature Department's pet snakes, lizards, and tortoise.

2020 Majors

Nature, Ecology & Design; Sustainable Design.

2020 Minors

Nature, Ecology & Design; Garden to Table.

Recreational Arts

The Recreational Arts program augments Usdan’s core mission to support campers’ creative development by encouraging physical fitness and an appreciation of the natural world. This comprehensive approach to our children’s creative, spiritual, and physical development makes Usdan unique among camps in our region.  Set in an idyllic woodland forest, our campus spaces are joined together by walking paths and are designed for optimal enjoyment of fresh air and natural light.  Across campus, students can enjoy nature walks, splash in two large outdoor swimming pools, play sports on multiple playing fields, as well as practice yoga and archery.

Each day, students spend a dedicated period enjoying a Recreational Activity of their choice. Each of these activities, with the exception of Recreational Swim, can also be chosen as a Minor.

2020 Recreational Arts classes

Archery; Beginner Tennis; Free Swim & Poolside Games; Gaga & Basketball; Instructional Swim & Poolside Games; Quidditch; Tennis; Yoga.

(Each of these classes can also be selected as a Minor, except for Free Swim.)