USDAN THEATER DEPARTMENT

AFTER 35 SUMMERS CHAMPIONING YOUNG ARTISTS, JIM INCORVAIA PASSES THE TORCH TO JAMES CRICHTON TO LEAD USDAN SUMMER CAMP FOR THE ARTS’ THEATER DEPARTMENT

James Crichton, Newly Appointed Chair of Usdan’s Theater Department

WHEATLEY HEIGHTS, NY (March 31, 2026) — Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts today announced that beloved actor, director, teacher, and Usdan alum James Crichton will take the helm as Chair of the Theater Department in Summer 2026, succeeding the legendary Jim Incorvaia, whose extraordinary leadership and unwavering passion have shaped generations of young artists.

“Jim’s commitment to his students, the faculty, and the artistic possibilities of theater is unmatched,” said Lauren Brandt Schloss, Executive Director of Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts. “Thanks to Jim’s devotion, Usdan’s Theater Department is a world of creativity and joy, and his legacy will continue to guide us for decades to come.”

Incorvaia joined Usdan in 1991 and has overseen more than 400 productions – including five original commissioned musicals – with at least 6,000 roles, and even more costumes! His approach has emphasized educational quality, community, and wonder, leaving an indelible mark on students, faculty, artists, audiences, and the broader community.

Stepping into the role of Chair of the Theater Department, Crichton is a seasoned educator, director, musician, and performer. He brings a dynamic blend of artistic rigor, collaboration, and a deep passion for Usdan — lighting up any studio or stage. His appointment signals both continuity and evolution for the department. Known for bringing young artists to new heights through a deeply supportive and joyful environment, he is committed to honoring the traditions established under Incorvaia’s leadership while guiding the program into its next chapter.

A member of the Usdan faculty since 2017, James has served as both Director and Musical Director of a dozen Usdan productions and has mentored students across multiple disciplines through a range of minor classes he developed for the department. Beyond Usdan, Crichton is Director of the district-wide drama program, The On Tour Company, at Sanford H. Calhoun High School.

Crichton holds a bachelor’s degree from Hofstra University and a master’s degree from Adelphi University. A member of Actors’ Equity Association, he has appeared as an actor in the New York premiere of “Unknown Soldier” at Playwrights Horizons, “Jasper in Deadland” with Prospect Theater Company, the national tour of “Peter and the Starcatcher,” the American premiere of Jordan Tannahill’s “Botticelli in the Fire” at Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, “The Taming of the Shrew” at Shakespeare Theatre Company, “The Last Ship” at Pioneer Theatre Company, and “Sweeney Todd” at The Rev Theatre Company.

“It is an incredible honor to step into this role following Jim’s remarkable legacy,” said James Crichton. “Like so many others, I have been shaped by leaders whose passion and vision defined not only programs, but people. Jim’s impact is immeasurable, and I am deeply grateful for the foundation he has built. 

“Having been a student in this program for six years, the opportunity to later collaborate with Jim as a colleague and learn from him has been a true full-circle experience and a core memory for me. I look forward to continuing his legacy — fostering a space that inspires and supports every young artist who walks through Usdan’s gate.”

About Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts: 

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts (usdan.org) is an award-winning not-for-profit day camp for the arts and has been named a “Best Of” camp by Timeout NY/Kids, and by Mommy Poppins. Diverse and playfully rigorous, Usdan brings exceptional teachers and professional artists — actors, directors, playwrights, painters, sculptors, musicians, composers, dancers, poets, and novelists — to teach and collaborate with Usdan students ages 5 to 18 from across Long Island and New York City. Usdan ignites each child’s artistic spirit in a fun, welcoming environment. 

Usdan is an agency of the UJA-Federation of New York. Programs take place at the camp’s magnificent 140-acre woodland campus, located at 185 Colonial Springs Road in Wheatley Heights, NY 11798. 

For actors, triple threats, and novices alike, there is still time to join Usdan's Theater Department! Register for Summer 2026 at Usdan.org/enroll. 

Media Contacts:

Lauren Brandt Schloss, Executive Director, Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts, lschloss@usdan.org, 631.643.7900