arts-X-press

Alumni Highlight - Ben Paltin

2012-01-10T15:58:00.000-08:00

Check it out--2008 alumn Ben Paltin will be appearing in OCHSA's "Performing With The Pros" production with Broadway star Krysta Rodriguez! Ben was selected from a large audition pool to sing one of the principal duets with Rodriguez, who has appeared on Broadway in Addams Family, In the Heights and Spring Awakenings.

Ben will be part of two performances, on January 27 and 28th at 6:00 p.m. at the Margaret A. Webb Theatre in Santa Ana.Tickets are available at www.ocsarts.net/boxoffice .

Got terrific alumni news you'd like to share? Let us know!

AXP 2012!

2012-01-03T15:28:00.000-08:00

Do you know a middle school student who would love arts-X-press? Applications are now available for AXP 2012 at www.pacificsymphony.org/arts-x-press! Applicants must currently be in 6th or 7th grade and should love the arts.

Alumnus and veteran counselor James Suazo is excited!

2012 session dates are:
Session 1: July 14-18
Session 2: July 21-25
Session 3: July 28-August 1
We'll be back at Vanguard University once again. Let the magic begin!

New AXP video!

2011-10-18T10:27:00.000-07:00

For the first time since 2005, we've been able to update our video! Shouts out to all the students, staff and alumni who participated.

Come back to the Symphony

2011-09-01T10:43:00.000-07:00

The crazy hats are packed away, the reunion is done, and everyone is headed back to school...But don't despair. You can keep the magic alive year-round!

Volunteer at Family Musical Mornings - These are our Saturday morning kids' concerts, and we always need lots of help with activities at our Musical Carnival. Have fun and earn volunteer credit hours for school at the same time! E-mail edvolunteer@pacificsymphony.org for more information.

Come to a concert. AXP alumni, friends and family get 50% off tickets to our 2011-12 Classical Connections concerts using promo code AXP2011. Or, sign up for Student Rewards for amazing discounts on Pacific Symphony Pops and Classics concerts.
See you soon!

2011 Reunion

2011-08-25T10:58:00.000-07:00

We are psyched for the reunion this Saturday!

Ordered your tickets already? Pick them up between 6:30 and 7:15 at the AXP table next to the box office windows. Don't stand in the long box office line!

Didn't order tickets in advance? Come to Verizon by 7:00 and we'll hook you up! Adult tix are $20, kids are $10. We take check, credit cards, or cash (exact change very much appreciated.)

See you soon!

Click here for more info on Verizon Wireless Amphitheater

Week 1 has already experienced the magic of Verizon. Join the fun!

Who's coming to the reunion?

2011-08-18T11:58:00.000-07:00

Are you coming to the reunion? See your buddies, including:

Dorian Angela C. Ashley Eduardo Angelarose Avery Fiama Jenna Daven Sofia V. Alex W. Ellyn Molly Sergio Darlene Amanda T. James Haley Mindy Kevin Allison C Claudia Tim M. Samantha Duncan Olivia Sara Ariana Rochelle Mo Alison R Naomi Kjersti Mariah Steve

Have a friend who's not on the list? Tell them to get their tickets!
Call the hotline at (714) 876-2336 or e-mail arts-x-press@pacificsymphony.org to reserve your tickets now!

2011 Reunion

2011-08-11T11:52:00.000-07:00

By now, everyone is back at home and unpacked. Are you still sharing the magic?
If you ordered DVDs or photos, they will be mailed at the end of August. Also at the end of August, don't forget about the Class of 2011 Reunion on August 27. Bring the whole family, see your old/new friends, and hear some excellent Duke Ellington played by the Pacific Symphony. All at a discount! Call the hotline at (714) 876-2336 to reserve your tickets, $10 for kids and $20 for adults.
See you soon!

Claire's CE Class

2011-08-02T13:18:00.000-07:00

It's Tuesday and we're polishing up our poems and stories for tonight's program. What great "creative expression" it is, too!

We have been participating so many fabulous arts activities. We're all dancing, playing instruments, making art, singing and acting. Yesterday we had an excursion to the amazing Pageant of the Masters and Festival of the Arts and really "got our hands dirty" in the arts. The Pacific Symphony gave us a beautiful concert and the National Choreographers Initiative really inspired our dance movements.

Here are some of the comments and feelings our campers are sharing:

"This is the best summer camp ever!"
"Arts-X-Press is a great way to express yourself in ways you didn't even know
until now."
"Arts-X-Press means everyone is a friend the minute you meet them."
"I feel that I can be myself with all the colors that I am."

Very cool! And I agree!

Laguna Day: The Male Perspective

2011-08-02T01:30:00.000-07:00

YO YO YO dawgie fresh! This is the absolutely amazing (so amazing there are only two) male counselors for your wonderful artists this week at the big A-little X-big P! The powers that be have requested our highly advanced blogging skills to update you about our latest adventures on campus and in the Laguna Beach-ey.

Our day started out like any other day in the world of AXP. After a del-oi-cious meal of potatoes, waffles, and bacon (very manly), your artists headed to their Creative Expression classes and creatively expressed themselves. Meanwhile, us counselors had the lovely pleasure of inspecting your young artists dorm rooms. Unfortunately, they aren't as neat and artistic with their rooms as they are in the classroom.

After that they headed to their art workshops for some fun activities with their new buddies. You as parentals have the duty to come and see them on Tuesday to see all that they have learned, and they are all excited to show you what they've created. Let's just say its gonna be big.

AFTER THAT we partied over to the Marvin Caf Memorial Cafeteria for some stroganoff & hearty mac-n-cheese. Then, it was the moment we had all been waiting for.... BATHROOM BREAKS!

Then Laguna!

Ooooooohhhhh Laguna! SO much happened in laguna today that it is the first question you need to ask your children once they return. In between all the backstage tours, raku pot glazing, printmaking, uphill hikes, pizza by the sea, chat with Carl, whale watching, and pageant of the masters watching, all we could do is think that "it's only make believe." (that's us trying to be clever since that was the theme of this year's pageant, go us!)

The best part of the night? the quiet bus ride home from laguna with all the sleeping children. And if they thought today was a long day, just wait til they experience Tuesday. The best of arts-x-press has yet to happen, and it only gets better from here!

Be sure to check out the photos from today below this post for some lovely visual interpretations of all this gobbeledy gook above. Live from the big V, this is James and Sergio, male counselors extraordinaire, signing off. See you at the PP!

Yeeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaa boiiiiiiii!

-James & Sergio

2011-08-02T00:08:00.000-07:00

James knows how to get the artists pumped up.

Keely gets ready for the beach.

Billy applies glaze to his Raku pot.

Kerry investigates the tools they use at the Raku station.

Anna watches to see how her print turns out.

Friends!

Kameron is enjoying the weather.

Parent Presentation- Tuesday

2011-08-01T11:28:00.000-07:00

We can't wait to see everyone at the Parent Presentation on Tuesday! It begins at 6:45 pm at Newport Mesa Church, which is at 2599 Newport Blvd. in the corner of Vanguard's campus. Parking is free, the whole family is welcome, and your campers can't wait to show you what they've accomplished this week.

Inspired by Inspiration

2011-08-01T10:12:00.000-07:00

HEEEELLLLLOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!

This is Edward's Creative X-Pression group- Today we worked on Acrostic Poems and learned they are

FUN

and by FUN we mean

Fantastic
Unbelievable and
Nice

Take a look at the beginning of a fusion of our class acrostic poems

Imagination
Naturally
Sparks
Passion
Incredible
Road to Success
A....?
T.....?
I.....?
O...?
N...?

(.... You'll have to come to the parent presentation to hear how they end.....)

Today since we are going to travel to beautiful Laguna Beach to see the Pageant of the Masters, your loved ones have written imaginative stories that explain the inspiration behind some of the paintings that we will see come to life tonight!!!!

Excitement abounds!!!!

Day 2!

2011-07-31T23:29:00.000-07:00

Mindy & Sergio

Gabby & Betsy on the bus

Skylar

Nicky gets into character

Counselors enjoy the improvisation during the Theater Spotlight

Garret makes sure everyone stays hydrated

Amber & Alie

Rochelle

Darci & Kameron

Valerie & Kyana

Mary, Mahallea & Angelica

Hello AXP Familia! Expert Counselor Alie here with a fabulous report for the day!!We began our morning with our normal routine, breakfast and then creative expression and arts workshops. The kids all seem to be having a great time! You are all going to be so impressed with the new skills your kids come home with! After those, we ate lunch and then went to a theatre spotlight class with an AXP instructor. The kids really broke out of their shells and took lots of creative risks that I'm sure they can't wait to tell you about! As staff members, we were so proud of the way the kids embraced the true Arts-X-Press fashion and went out on a limb. After that, we had a really good time in a great team building exercise you will have to ask them all about! After that, we went to a symphony in the cities concert to see the wonderful Pacific Symphony. The kids took a backstage tour and got to meet the Pacific Symphony conductor, Carl St. Clair. The kids really had a great time and learned a lot so they could have a good time watching the Symphony. You are going to hear so many stories! Everyone, kids and staff alike, is having a wonderful time. Tomorrow is going to bring many more great adventures as the students go see the famous Pageant of the Masters in Laguna Beach. You'll hear more about it on here tomorrow! Thanks for checking in!!! :)

A few pictures from Week 3 so far...

2011-07-31T11:26:00.000-07:00

Dance Workshop

Visual Art Workshop

Amber's quad takes the cake for decor!

Rochelle's counselor group

???

We love the cafeteria!

Instrumental Music Workshop

Our Theme of the Week is INSPIRATION!

2011-07-31T10:00:00.000-07:00

Today we discussed the meaning of our theme, "Inspiration". The students helped define what it means to be inspired and shared some of their personal inspirations with me:

Inspiration: Something that motivates you to do or be something more. Its like a dream coming true.

Some of our students are motivate by people they know. Dori is motivated by her music teacher because she works hard and is true to her music. Colin is inspired by his 4th grade teacher because she inspired him to do his best. Cassie is inspired by Taylor Swift's poetry and singing and Jose is inspired by the movies made by Steven Spielberg.

Diana L. is inspired by many things; food music and art! Emma is inspired by the vastness of space, it makes her feel safe. Makaela is inspired by nature because it brings out the best in her landscape drawings.

Many of my students, like most of us, are inspired by their families. Mahallea is inspired by the care her parents give her. Olivia by her mother for encouraging her to do new things. Jessica's mother inspires her by bringing joy to each day and spending time with her. Gabby's sister and parents inspire her to step out of her comfort zone and be the best she can be. Katie is inspired by her mom because she always supports her and loves her for just being herself. Alijah is inspired by his dad. Anna is inspired by both of her parents because they do so much, often without getting any thanks. Brian's parents inspire him because they always have something to do but can always squeeze time in for him. Diana M. is inspired by her mother because she encourages her to do good in school.

Now they ask, what is your inspiration?

Posted by Kameron's Creative Expression workshop

Week 3 has arrived!

2011-07-30T12:34:00.000-07:00

Week 3 has arrived, and after some games to learn everyone's name and a terrific lunch, we got to find out what everyone has been dying to know--which Arts Workshops we'd been assigned to! We're off for an afternoon of creativity before we go to the Barclay for the National Choreographer's Initiative tonight.

We are so happy to have our beloved Eddie Oliver back with us this week!

Week 3 Bus and an Eddie Update

2011-07-29T09:53:00.000-07:00

One more magical week left!
For those of you in Week 2 who missed the fabulous Eddie Oliver on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, we are very happy to report that he is doing much better and will be back on Saturday to teach instrumental music for Week 3. If you want a chance to give him the big hug you didn't get to give him as you boarded the bus, you can come to this week's Parent Presentation on 8/2!

In case you're missing your packing list or medicine labeling form, they can be downloaded here:
Packing List
Medicine Labeling Form
Then we'll see you on the bus! Bus schedule pdf

Bus A

Placentia-Yorba Linda

Education Services Center

4999 Casa Loma Avenue

Yorba Linda, CA 92886

Student arrival time: 7:45 am

Bus Departs: 8:05 am

Garden Grove

Garden Grove Unified District Office

10331 Stanford Ave

Garden Grove, CA 92840

Student Arrival Time: 8:25 am

Bus Departs: 8:45 am

Santa Ana

Santa Ana Unified District Office

1601 E Chestnut Ave.

Santa Ana, CA 92701

Student Arrival Time: 9:10am

Bus Departs: 9:30 am

Bus B

Saddleback Valley

Saddleback Valley Unified District Office

25631 Peter A Hartman Way

Mission Viejo, CA 92691

Student Arrival Time: 7:50am

Bus Departs: 8:10am

Irvine

Irvine Unified District Office

5050 Barranca Parkway

Irvine, CA 92604

Student Arrival Time: 8:35 am

Bus Departs: 8:55 am

Newport-Mesa

California Elementary

3232 California Street
Costa Mesa, CA

Student Arrival Time: 9:15 am

Bus Departs: 9:35 am

Parents, check back here to see what Week 3 is up to. Then we look forward to seeing you at our Parent Presentation on Tuesday. It begins at 6:45 at Newport Mesa Church, 2599 Newport Blvd. on the Vanguard Campus.
View Larger Map

See you soon!

Don't Forget!

2011-07-26T23:46:00.000-07:00

Parents,

Thank you for all those that attended the Parent Presentation tonight. It was a great evening! We had a great turnout and I know for a fact that your artists appreciated you attending. You know you loved the LLAMA song! Don't deny it.

Just a few reminders:

It is imperative that you are on time tomorrow. Like I mentioned tonight, the worst thing is after the kids are so excited to share their experience with you but instead they end up waiting around for you. Once again, here are the bus arrival times:

Santa Ana: 10:05 AM

Garden Grove: 10:35 AM

Placentia-Yorba Linda: 11:05 AM

Newport-Mesa: 10:00 AM

Irvine: 10:25 AM

Saddleback Valley: 10:55 AM

It has been an absolute pleasure to borrow your kids for this week. They are extremely bright, talented, and fun. Remind them to not forget the magic they felt this week and remain a part of the Arts-X-Press family. I know I never forgot and it has been a part of me for almost 10 years. You did a great job raising such fine young artists. Keep up the good work. :)

This is me signing off for Arts-X-Press Week 2, 2011.

Coordinator, Week 2

Hello from Claire's Creative Expression Workshop!

2011-07-26T10:52:00.000-07:00

We've been having wonderful experiences these past few days, creating art, singing, dancing, playing instruments, eating delicious food and going on amazing workshops. Here is some of our thoughts and feelings from member of our group.

The Pageant of the Masters and the Festival of Arts were amazing and the artwork was beautiful. Ali

I really enjoyed seeing Mary Poppins because of the difficult dancing and amazing voices. It was truly magical. Grace

Personally, I loved the the wedding Singer. All the music got the crowd pumped, everyone was so talented and I just love comedy. As amazing as that was, making new friends is still the best! Gigi C.

I've loved all of our excursions. Everything has been fun. I can't pick one thing over another. Arts-X-press rules! Scott

I really liked going to the festival of the Arts and Pageant of the Masters. Good job,
arts-X-press! Gianna M.

What I love about arts-X-press is the way we get to learn about the arts. I'm having fun and making new friends. Angelarose

I really enjoyed the Pageant of the Masters. Amazing! And I love the people, the staff, counselors,
and campers, and making new friends. Angela

The drummer at the Wedding Singer was amazing! I couldn't stop watching him. Orlando

My favorite was Mary Poppins. I loved how they made her fly. It was supercalifragilisticexpialidocious! Gavin

The excursions were amazing and I'm having an amazing time. David

The arts and crafts at the Festival of the Arts gave me a chance to try out new forms of arts and see how they are made. Taylor

Arts-X-press has opened a whole new door to having fun and learning. I love it! And I don't want to go! Meaghan

My favorite excursion was the Wedding Singer. It made me imagine how my parents would dress in the eighties and that was really funny! Sofia

I liked the Wedding Singer and making new friends. Julie

Arts-X-press has inspired me more than any other experience I've had. I was pleasantly surprised by everything that happened and I am happier than ever before. Melissa

Yes! All that and more. :) Claire

A magical day 3!

2011-07-26T00:46:00.000-07:00

This is Mo, coming to you live from the Admin. Suite.

I somehow mustered up the strength to reflect on our day today. Maybe because it was absolutely incredible and really reminded me of how lucky we are to be able to do the things we do here at Arts-X-Press!

Day 3 has always been my favorite day of Arts-X-Press. Today we all loaded the buses and headed to beautiful Laguna Beach. First stop was the Festival of the Arts where we saw some amazing artists display their best work. Not only did we see great art, but we got to make some of our own! Your kids made some spectacular Raku Pots (beware: the smell takes some getting used to), did some printmaking and did their own version of scratch art.

We got to take an exclusive backstage tour of the Pageant of the Masters production. We saw how the paintings come together, the make-up is done, and how much time, energy, and man power it takes to make this show a success for almost 80 years!

After their artistic skills were warmed up we headed to Heisler Park where we had dinner, got to prepare a little bit for the talent show, and got to relax a little bit.

Just when we thought the evening could not get any better we had a VERY special guest join us, Carl St. Clair! (Yes, the Carl St. Clair). He had some very inspiring words to share and gave everyone some great advice and encouraged all the students to follow their dreams and make a difference in the world. Always a great pep talk from Carl.

Once that was all said and done, the moment we had all been waiting for arrived---Pageant of the Masters. The Arts-X-Pressers were in awe of what they were witnessing. They absolutely loved the show and were completely engaged through the entirety of the show. Having gone to many, many, Pageant shows myself, I definitely thought this was one of the better ones I have seen. If you have the opportunity to go, definitely do it! You will not regret it.

This group of kids has so much energy it was funny to see it completely fade as the evening started to wrap up. Now they are all safe and sound and in their [somewhat] comfy beds. An unforgettable day at Arts-X-Press! I am positive you will hear about it and it maybe described better than what I was able to conjure up at 12:30 am after a full day! ;)

Reminder: Today is the parent presentation. Below is the map and more details. I will see you there! :) Make sure you say Hi!

Mo
Coordinator, Week 2

Parent Presentation - TUESDAY night

2011-07-25T10:53:00.000-07:00

We can't wait to see everyone at the Parent Presentation on Tuesday*! It begins at 6:45 pm at Newport Mesa Church, which is at 2599 Newport Blvd. in the corner of Vanguard's campus. Parking is free, the whole family is welcome, and your campers can't wait to show you what they've accomplished this week.
*In the original posting, this said "tonight." But of course, today is Monday. The parent presentation is indeed on TUESDAY. The days start to blend together around this point. My apologies, Blogmaster M

Arts X-Press Day 3

2011-07-25T10:12:00.000-07:00

Hello Family!

This blog is brought to you by Lisa, Creative Expressions teacher. Your students are having a fabulous time creating stories! Saturday the students made fun Mad-Lib stories that got their imaginations rolling! Yesterday and today we worked on in depth story telling regarding character and plots of several artworks that they will get to see at Pageant of the Masters! I asked the students to share with you about something they experienced over the last few days and here is what they had to say:

I loved going to the shows and meeting new people - Jenna S.

Getting to meet some of the cast of Mary Poppins and also getting to see new people - Makayla L.

Getting to see "The Wedding Singer" musical and making new friends. - Ashley D.

Getting to see "Mary Poppins" was amazing and exciting. I can't wait for Pageant of the Masters! - Madison G.

The bus ride to "The Wedding Singer" was awesome. - Jacqueline C.

AXP is a place where you experience things that last a life-time. Every second I enjoy being here. - Sanha Y.

I love everything at AXP. It is amazing and so are the people. - Naomi G.

I love going to the musicals. I've never been before and I really enjoyed them. - Jimmy B.

I enjoyed the Improv class. - Gillian G.

I like seeing the theater the most. - Jonathan H.

I like everything here at AXP. This place is amazing and I believe my experience here will last a life time. - Sofia O.

What I <3 most about AXP is how everybody is different and nobody will laugh at you or call you weird for being creative. - Katie K.

I never realized how much I loved musicals. - Alex W.

What I liked the most was the excursions. - Daven S.

The excursions are what I liked most at AXP. - Garrett B.

Visual Arts is my favorite activity at AXP. - Richard Y.

I really liked the workshops and C.E. because we express ourselves. - Jianna V.

Well, that's it for now folks. See you tomorrow night at the Presentation! You'll be so impressed by all the talent!!

-Lisa

Day 2!

2011-07-25T00:07:00.000-07:00

Hello Family!

This edition of the AXP blog is coming to you from the counselors Darlene and Amanda Panda!! YAY! Today was a very busy day. We started out with an inspirational session of Creative Expression (that rhymes!). Everyone seemed very excited about what they were working on. Afterward we dived right into art workshops! We heard wonderful things about visual, vocal, dance, instrumental, and drama! Everyone is turning into a real rock star, Picasso, and Yo Yo Ma! We can't wait to show you what we have been working on Tuesday night at the parent presentation! Everyone is in for a real treat!

For lunch, we had the privilege of dining with two real life Pacific Symphony Orchestra members. After lunch we had a FANTASTIC time at our theater workshop put on by the FAB-U-LOUS Amy Louise. Everyone took a risk and showed off their improv skills, comedy, creativity, and teamwork in some theatre games. Make sure you ask your artists about their experience in theater workshop, you are guaranteed some hilarious stories! Also, PAFIGLIANO!! Ask your artists later ;)

Finally, it was SUPERCALIFRAGILISTICEXPIALIDOCIOUS time! We had a quick dinner and then we were off to see "Mary Poppins the Musical" at the Segerstom Hall. It was phenomenal. The singing, dancing, British accents, stage stunts, and special effects made the entire show a unique and magical experience! When we thought the night could not get any better, SURPRISE we found out we were going to meet some of the cast and ask them our own questions! Intelligent questions were asked and everyone learned the secrets and tricks from the pros that make a production like Mary Poppins amazing!

Now your happy campers are peacefully sleeping in their dorms, dreaming about what is in store tomorrow! This is Amanda Panda and Darlene, signing off! MAKE BELIEVE :)

Day 2 Pictures (so far)

2011-07-24T15:34:00.000-07:00

So far Day 2 has been full of fun, with Arts Workshops and Creative Expression this morning, then a theater workshop this afternoon. Here are a few pictures!

Making Believe in CE

2011-07-24T10:05:00.000-07:00

Every morning we get together in our Creative Expressions classes. We spend each morning writing about a goal we have for the day and a discovery that we made the previous day.

"Today I discovered to keep on going in acting and that I can do it without losing my other talent (playing instruments). And that you can have more than one talent. And that you can change your talent at any time or learn a new one." - Lily

"Today I discovered that I actually have the ability to get ready in 15 minutes. I have always taken a really long time to get ready but I did it with three minutes to spare! And my group was the first group out!" -Madison L.

"One goal today would be to make a new friend to hangout with when alone. It's always great to meet someone new." - Julia

"My goal is to do AWESOME in vocal today." -MJ

We also wrote a make-believe story about a person in our class using a make believe related adjective that started with the same letter as their name.

Once up on a time, there was a girl named Majestic Marissa. Majestic Marissa had a unicorn named Rainbow. One day, Rainbow was acting strangely when Marissa went out to the field to say hello. "What's wrong, Rainbow?" Majestic Marissa asked. Rainbow neighed towards the sky and pounded the ground nervously. Majestic Marissa followed his gaze and looked upwards. Dark purple storm clouds covered the sky. So she ran into her castle, dragging the anxious unicorn behind her. As soon as the two had stepped safely over the threshold, it began to rain, but not just any rain. It rained giant, hot pink rain drops! Majestic Marissa then turned to Rainbow. "Thank you for saving me! My hero!" She never left Rainbow's side again. The end. -by Sophia M.

We then made an acrostic poem to the words "Make Believe". Enjoy the differences in poems written by girls and poems written by boys. :)

Mystical Madeleine and Malificant Maddie rules AXP.
Amazing fairy godmother's grant us wishes of gold.
Kings and Queens teach every class.
Evil witches casting spells everywhere.

Busy fairies buzz through the air leaving fairy dust everywhere.
Eternal Evan will never die, it scares us all.
Lovely Princesses rule every dorm.
Immortality is expected.
Elegant elephants fly with ease
Vicious vipers crawl every where.
Everything and anything is possible.
-by the two Maddies

Monkeys eating goblins
Astronomers discover Mario on Pluto
Kicking wood made a black hole
Eating tuna made the sun disappear

Bananas take out Justin Bieber
Evan ate a time machine
Lunatics eat lava
In my room a dog at a mattress whole
Elephants ate their legs
Volcanoes erupt ice cream
Eggs robbed a bank.
-by Evan and Joey

The last thing that we did was put all of our acrostic poems into one big class poem. Enjoy the writings of Hercules Helena, Make Believe MJ, Surreal Sophia, Joyous Julia, Lovely Lily, Glorious Gloria, K-amazing Katelyn, Eternal Evan, Joystick Joey, Doctor Danny, Super Selah, Mystical Madeleine, Majestic Marissa, Malificent Madison, Ketchup Kevin, and Magical Michal.

Magical creatures lurk in the corners of my room
An afollophogus apologizes appropriately after appropriately appetizing an antelope.
Ketchup falling from the sky
Every night Peter Pan comes to my window

Believe in the unbelievable
Elves sitting on dragons' tails eating enchiladas
Laughing hyenas chasing Bigfoot
Incredible Medusa turned my goldfish into stone
Eating tuna made the sun disappear.
Visible people are not really there
Everyone sleeping at the castle.

Week 2 begins!

2011-07-23T14:53:00.000-07:00

Everyone arrived on campus safely and happily and the fun is underway! We have already had a delicious lunch and the first meeting of our arts workshops and are excited to go to the Carpenter Center for "The Wedding Singer" tonight.

We got the beat, the arts-X-press beat!

Week 2

2011-07-22T15:33:00.001-07:00

We can't wait for Saturday!

In case you're missing your packing list or medicine labeling form, they can be downloaded here:
Packing List
Medicine Labeling Form
Then we'll see you on the bus! Bus schedule pdf

Bus A

Placentia-Yorba Linda

Education Services Center

4999 Casa Loma Avenue

Yorba Linda, CA 92886

Student arrival time: 7:45 am

Bus Departs: 8:05 am

Garden Grove

Garden Grove Unified District Office

10331 Stanford Ave

Garden Grove, CA 92840

Student Arrival Time: 8:25 am

Bus Departs: 8:45 am

Santa Ana

Santa Ana Unified District Office

1601 E Chestnut Ave.

Santa Ana, CA 92701

Student Arrival Time: 9:10am

Bus Departs: 9:30 am

Bus B

Saddleback Valley

Saddleback Valley Unified District Office

25631 Peter A Hartman Way

Mission Viejo, CA 92691

Student Arrival Time: 7:50am

Bus Departs: 8:10am

Irvine

Irvine Unified District Office

5050 Barranca Parkway

Irvine, CA 92604

Student Arrival Time: 8:35 am

Bus Departs: 8:55 am

Newport-Mesa

California Elementary

3232 California Street
Costa Mesa, CA

Student Arrival Time: 9:15 am

Bus Departs: 9:35 am

Parents, check back here daily for updates. Then we look forward to seeing you at our Parent Presentation on Tuesday. It begins at 6:45 at Newport Mesa Church, 2599 Newport Blvd. on the Vanguard Campus.
View Larger Map

See you soon!

The Final Countdown

2011-07-20T01:59:00.000-07:00

Hey hey hey,

Today we embarked on another great day at arts-x-press! Although we had no excursions today, we still had a jam-packed day here at Vanguard. After a long night at the Pageant of the Arts, we were all grateful to sleep in a little while longer. After filling up on a hearty breakfast everyone went to their Creative Expression classes and put our creative minds to use. While some kids blogged, others wrote acrostic poems and worked on haikus. Then we all met up at the letters and dispersed to our art workshops. Whether dance, visual arts, voice, instrumental, or theater, we all finalized our pieces for the parent work in progress presentation, and added last minute touches. Then we took a quick lunch break to get some energy for the rest of the day. Later we enjoyed a special treat when we got to work with musicians from the Pacific Symphony. A song was written specifically for us at arts-x-press and we came up with different combinations of the melody. Then we got to practice our percussion skills and have a question session with the musicians. The instrumental spotlight was followed by a vocal spotlight where we learned harmonies and found confidence in our voice. After that we squeezed in some time for practicing for the talent show and rehearsing for the parent presentation. Then we ate a fast dinner all anxious to see our family and show our friends the progress we have made. We all went to the show and it was awesome! It was great to see what everyone had been working on for the past couple of days. The performance definitely stayed true to this weeks theme of Collaboration. Creative Expression classes also gave a preview of what they had been working on, and everyone expressed how much arts-x-press has influenced them and impacted them. After our three minute hellos to any visitors, we went to our talent show where everyone was amazing. We saw a wide variety of talents and it was great to see everyone perform their art form. When the show ended, the kids walked over to a surprise party that the counselors had planned. Then we went back to our dorms and settled down and packed up. Tomorrow the buses will bring us back all home, and though no one wants arts-x-press to end, we can't wait to see our family and friends!

CE day 4

2011-07-19T09:35:00.000-07:00

Day 4 of Gemma’s Creative Expression class!

Featuring the collaboration of Vivian, Matt, Leigh, Kelsey, Dustin, Annamaria, Lily, Dion, Shawna, Mikayla, Claire, Denise, Thao, Fiama, Evie, Noah and David

Each day we write in our creatively decorated journals about a DISCOVERY and a GOAL.

Some DISCOVERIES we have made:

I can write my name backwards.

Even if someone says something is real, to other people it is make-believe.

I love tacos.

If you believe in yourself, you can do anything.

Some GOALS we have set:

Make new friends.

Learn more about myself.

Take more risks.

Try my hardest in my Arts Workshop.

We express ourselves though our poetry. At the parent presentation we will share with you our class ACROSTIC poem. As for now, here are some “I AM…” poems.

I am an artist

I wonder if I will make it big

I hear the chattering audience waiting for the show

I see the bright lights

I want to sing and dance

I am an artist.

By Mikayla

I am Kelsey Bray

I wonder if I will ever make it to Broadway

I hear Mikayla getting irritated that I’m in seventh grade and older than her

I see a family around me and supporting me

I want to have a great time and meet new friends

I am Kelsey Bray.

I understand the concept of math

I say I can do anything

I dream about anything

I try to be the best

I hope to go to Harvard

I am the best and the only Fiama Pschaidt

Yesterday we got the opportunity to work together at the Festival of the Arts, creating scratch art, Raku pots and printmaking. Looking forward to sharing our artistic risk-taking with you!

And finally, we found last night’s Pageant of the Masters: breathtaking, alive, exotic, out-of-this-world, truly amazing, fascinating, emotional, entertaining, fantastic, kewl, inspiring.

See you very soon!!!

Day three = victory!!!

2011-07-19T02:08:00.000-07:00

Hellooo from arts-x-press!!!
Wow what a day! Today after a scrumididdlyumtious breakfast, the kids headed over to CE (creative expression) to write poems and reflect on yesterday's performance of the Wedding Singer. In some classes, the campers even got to act out the parts of the show! The kids were so excited about CE today, and they were talking about it all throughout the day. Then, we all went over to workshops and worked on improv, self-portraits, and routines. We sure are a talented bunch of kids! For lunch today, we had chicken tacos, salads, self-made sandwiches, and OF COURSE our favorite ice cream cones!! Mmm yummy.
Then... for the highlight of the day that everyone was looking forward to: Pageant of the Masters!!!! When we first got to Laguna, we went on a tour of the theater, and we checked out the sets, lighting, costumes, makeup, and wardrobe! It was such a unique experience! Then we decorated ceramic pots and worked on scratch art and printmaking. The kids and staff all get to keep their pieces of art! Later, we walked all around the art festival and looked at all of the pieces, and thought of questions that we would go ask the artists later in the evening when we got the chance. After about an hour, we left the Pageant area temporarily so we could go to Heisler Park. It was beautiful! We were at a big grassy area overlooking the ocean. It was so peaceful and relaxing! The kids prepped for the talent show in their groups and everyone is starting to get verrryyy excited. Some people are taking big risks and doing things for the show they never even knew they were capable of! Whoppee!! For dinner we had a delicious pizza party, thanks to Dominos! Then, before we knew it, the St. Clair family was there! Carl St. Clair came and did excercises with the kids, teaching everyone the difference between listening versus hearing, and looking versus seeing. It was perfect for preparing us for Pageant of the Masters! When we got back to the theater, we sat in our seats and the show began! The "Only Make Believe" theme of the show was so well presented! The section with the dragons seemed to be very popular with EVERYONE!

2011-07-18T10:38:00.000-07:00

Our Creative Expression Group has done some impressive and insightful work in the past few days. They have journaled daily about Inspirations and Realizations that they have made during camp. Many of them found their "Magic Moment" while attending the performance of The Wedding Singer at Musical Theatre West yesterday afternoon. A few of them had never seen a musical before, and even the musical experts were impressed by the hilarity and the energy of the production. Please enjoy our OWN version of The Wedding Singer, complete with some musical interludes that may remind you of a simpler time: The Eighties!

Day Two! WooWoo!

2011-07-18T00:34:00.000-07:00

From the Counselors:
Why Hello Hello,
Today at arts-x-press was quite enthrallingly magical! We started our day early with a wonderful wake-up call by our lovely counselors. After which we visited the artsmart where the children were able to purchase our wonderful arts-x-press merchandise. Then we headed over to the cafeteria to enjoy a wonderful breakfast, provided by Vanguard, of french toast, eggs, bacon, sausage, fruit, and of course some H-2-Oh-Yah!!!!! After feeding, the children went to their creative expression classes where they would a achieve what we at arts-x-press refer to as expressing ourselves creatively. There after the kiddies went to their arts workshops where they could come together to collaborate on their art and what art means to them. Following our arts workshop session everyone rejoined each other for a scrump-diddly-umptious lunch of a sub or hot dog with salad. Afterwards we went on our excursion. We saw The Wedding Singer at the Carpenter Center and the kids had a charming time. The kids had a wonderful time watching such a colorful show. We all returned to Vanguard in time for some nice din-din (dinner) of tacos!!!!!!! And finally we closed our day with a very heartfelt bonding session where the kids had the opportunity to openly appreciate two people. All in all it was a very busy and exciting day at arts-x-press!!!

Here are some photos from tonight's theater workshop. We created family portraits, but not of any ordinary family--it could be a family of animals, objects, or anything we could imagine. We tried to make it look like a real family, including at least one "black sheep." Can you guess what these families are? Can you spot the black sheep?

Collaborating with the Animals

2011-07-17T10:40:00.000-07:00

Last night we were lucky to experience the lovely Pacific Symphony Orchestra along with the incredibly talented 5 Browns perform the Carnival of the Animals by Camille Saint-Saens. Three of the Browns narrated and two performed along with the PSO.

So this morning, when trying to decide what to present on the blog, we decided to create our own Carnival of the Animals. We started out with some collaborative brainstorming to determine how we wanted the performance to look. Then we divided up the roles- five of us took on the role of the 5 talented pianists and the rest of us became animals. You can't, of course, play the role of aniamls without costumes so we got to work artistically. And now, with a few sheets of construction paper, some glue and glitter, a few sound glitches, snorts and giggles, a lot of collaboration and imagination and tons of charm, we present to you, the Carnival of Michal's CE Animal Class!

Update 9:54 p.m. -- sorry about the technical difficulties with viewing the video. You should be able to access it at this link. Let us know if the problems persist!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Bti4zIPJ9U

ps- we just realized that it's sideway and can't change it! of well, it just adds to our heaping charm :)

Week 1, Day 1

2011-07-16T15:22:00.000-07:00

Everyone arrived on campus safely and we had a great time learning each others' names. Following a delicious lunch in the cafeteria, we got to find out which Arts Workshops everyone had been assigned to. We are really looking forward to tonight's excursion to Verizon Wireless Amphitheater to see the Pacific Symphony! We got to have lunch with Pacific Symphony cellist Ian McKinnell and are psyched to see him onstage tonight with the 5 Browns. Check out this article in today's L.A. Times about this amazing quintet!

Visual Art Workshop

Theater workshop

Creative Expression

Vocal music workshop

Verizon Wireless Amphitheater

Getting ready!

2011-07-14T13:18:00.000-07:00

We can't wait for Saturday!

In case you're missing your packing list or medicine labeling form, they can be downloaded here:
Packing List
Medicine Labeling Form
Then we'll see you on the bus! Bus schedule pdf

Bus A

Placentia-Yorba Linda

Education Services Center

4999 Casa Loma Avenue

Yorba Linda, CA 92886

Student arrival time: 7:45 am

Bus Departs: 8:05 am

Garden Grove

Garden Grove Unified District Office

10331 Stanford Ave

Garden Grove, CA 92840

Student Arrival Time: 8:25 am

Bus Departs: 8:45 am

Santa Ana

Santa Ana Unified District Office

1601 E Chestnut Ave.

Santa Ana, CA 92701

Student Arrival Time: 9:10am

Bus Departs: 9:30 am

Bus B

Saddleback Valley

Saddleback Valley Unified District Office

25631 Peter A Hartman Way

Mission Viejo, CA 92691

Student Arrival Time: 7:50am

Bus Departs: 8:10am

Irvine

Irvine Unified District Office

5050 Barranca Parkway

Irvine, CA 92604

Student Arrival Time: 8:35 am

Bus Departs: 8:55 am

Newport-Mesa

California Elementary

3232 California Street
Costa Mesa, CA

Student Arrival Time: 9:15 am

Excursion Spotlight: NCI Discovery

2011-07-13T09:27:00.000-07:00

Session 3 will be there for the birth of not one but FOUR new ballets created as part of the intensive 3-week process of the National Choreographers Initiative. Four noted choreographers and sixteen professional ballet dancers from ballet companies across the country participate in this southern California project with national influence. A dozen of the pieces begun here have gone on to be premiered or developed further and performed elsewhere in the U.S. and abroad. The project culminates in a public performance showcasing the excitement of new creation. It's also an opportunity to hear the choreographers talk about their concepts and ideas and for you to ask questions and participate in the discussion. It's a mind-expanding excursion into the world of dance.

Excursion Spotlight: Behind the scenes of The Wedding Singer

2011-07-06T15:14:00.000-07:00

I love the ‘80s! Sessions 1 and 2 will get taken back to 1985 by the Musical Theatre West production of the hit musical The Wedding Singer, based on the Adam Sandler-Drew Barrymore film! A small town wedding singer gets jilted at his own wedding, then falls in love with someone else’s fiancée. Check out this behind the scenes video:

Excursion Spotlight: Pacific Symphony

2011-06-29T15:23:00.000-07:00

arts-X-press students in all three weeks get a chance to have lunch with Pacific Symphony musicians so that they can learn more what the life of a professional musician is really like. So it's always exciting to see them onstage!

The 5 Browns

Week 1 will hear The 5 Browns at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater. The 5 Browns — five siblings, five virtuosos — took the music world by storm in 2002, when People magazine called them "The Fab Five." How often do you get to hear FIVE PIANISTS all at once?

Week 3 will attend Symphony in the Cities in Irvine. This popular event attracts thousands of people each summer. Featuring high-quality family entertainment in the great outdoors, the Symphony is joined this year by the Southern California Childrens' Chorus.

Carl St.Clair

Both concerts will be conducted by Music Director Carl St.Clair. Carl has been an important part of arts-X-press since the very beginning, and continues to be an inspiration to students and alumni.

Don't worry, Week 2--you will also get a chance to see your musician friends in action. Many Pacific Symphony musicians also play in the orchestras for Pageant of the Masters and Mary Poppins.

Excursion Spotlight: Pageant of the Masters

2011-06-23T14:49:00.000-07:00

Get ready to believe in the art of the impossible! All three sessions will be attending the 2011 Pageant of the Masters, Only Make Believe. In its uniquely theatrical celebration of "living pictures," it is a passport to explore worlds populated by ancient and modern superheroes and strange, mythical creatures. It will also showcase the creative expressions of artists who devoted themselves to conjuring everything from Victorian historical fantasies, illustrations for fairytales beginning "once upon a time," to futuristic visions of things to come, all in a breathtaking performance of "art that lives and breathes." arts-X-pressers will enjoy hands on activities with real artists at Festival of the Arts preceding the Pageant.

Packing Lists, Bus Schedules, and Medications

2011-06-21T11:05:00.000-07:00

We are getting ready to go! In case you misplaced any of your forms that you received at the Summer Orientation, they are available for download here:
Packing List
Medicine Labeling Form
Bus Schedule
If you didn't turn in your bus stop preference at the orientation meetings, please e-mail or phone in your preferences as soon as possible.

Only 25 days until the start of session 1!

New Staff

2011-06-20T11:44:00.000-07:00

Introducing some fabulous new staff and counselors!

Carrie Villanueva has been involved with AXP for years, and will be assisting with paperwork, parent phone calls and e-mails. Carrie also works on Pacific Symphony's Class Act program.

Garret at the 10-year reunion in 2010

Garret Wehrman is definitely not new. He was part of the very first class of arts-X-press in 2001, then spent several years as a counselor, and THEN was the Coordinator last summer. We are thrilled that Garret will be returning once again as the Coordinator for Week 3.

Gavin Kane will be joining us as a counselor for Week 2. Gavin is a student at OCHSA and was part of the AXP class of 2007.

Summer Orientation

2011-06-06T16:15:00.000-07:00

Please plan to attend one of these meetings so you don’t miss out on important info on bus stops, excursions, and what to pack. Students are encouraged to attend this meeting as it is their first chance to meet some of their fabulous counselors! Please bring all forms and payments with you.

June 6, 7:00 pm, Building A, Board Room
June 11, 10:00 a.m., Building D, Rooms 1004-06

Both meetings are at the Orange County Dept. of Education, 200 Kalmus Dr., Costa Mesa.

View Larger Map

AXP Events This Week

2011-06-01T14:04:00.000-07:00

AXP Welcome Night
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Piano soloist Yuja Wang has been replaced due to illness. She is being replaced by Conrad Tao who is just 16 years old!

When: Concert begins at 3 pm

Where: Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall

Orange County Performing Arts Center

Parking: Parking is available in adjacent structures and at the Wyndham Hotel for $8-10. OCPAC is also accessible by OCTA.

What to wear: These are afternoon casual concerts, so wear what makes you comfortable.

***Be sure to stop by the Welcome Table in the lobby to get a special treat!***

Tickets are available for purchase until 4 pm on June 3.
1. Call the Pacific Symphony Box Office at (714) 755-5799.
2. Mention you are from arts-X-press to receive the special discount price (Students: $10, Adults: $20)3. Pick your tickets up at the Will Call window.

For maps, information on restaurants, and lots more info, click on “Enhance Your Experience” at www.pacificsymphony.org
We do not recommend this concert for children under the age of 8.
This is an optional event, but we hope to see you there!

Summer Orientations
Please plan to attend one of these meetings so you don’t miss out on important info on bus stops, excursions, and what to pack. Students are encouraged to attend this meeting as it is their first chance to meet some of their fabulous counselors! Please bring all forms and payments with you.

June 6, 7:00 pm, Building A, Board Room
June 11, 10:00 a.m., Building D, Rooms 1004-06

Both meetings are at the Orange County Dept. of Education, 200 Kalmus St., Costa Mesa.

View Larger Map

See you soon!

Forms due Friday!

2011-05-18T13:45:00.000-07:00

Don't forget that this Friday, May 20, is the deadline for forms and payments (unless you are on a payment plan.) Please make sure your forms are postmarked by Friday--no need to drive them down to the office.

If your pink form will be late because of your doctor's schedule, send the rest of your forms by May 20. Then call or e-mail to let us know when to expect the pink form.

If you need copies of any of the forms, they are available for download:
2011 Preparation Checklist (blue)
Camper Health History (green)
Licensed Medical Provider (pink)
Waiver of Liability (gray)
Release for Administration of Medicine (purple)
Search, Photo, Media Release (orange)
Application for Financial Aid (salmon)

2011 Counselors

2011-05-16T13:00:00.000-07:00

We are so pleased and proud to introduce our 2011 Counselors! These 24 AXP alumni made it through a highly competitive selection process and will join us for summer fun. A whopping 14 of the smiling faces you see below are returning veteran counselors. Be sure to attend the summer orientations on June 6 or June 11 to meet them!

Forms, forms, forms!

2011-05-10T11:53:00.000-07:00

Don't forget that all your forms and payments are due on May 20. If you are missing any of your forms, they are available for download:

2011 Preparation Checklist
Camper Health History
Licensed Medical Provider
Waiver of Liability
Release for Administration of Medicine
Search, Photo, Media Release
Application for Financial Aid

We look forward to seeing you at the June orientation meetings!

Meet the Staff

2011-04-26T16:01:00.000-07:00

Stephanie and Yolanda at the 10-year reunion in 2010

Introducing Lead Coordinator Yolanda Galvez! Yolanda will only be new to you if you are brand new to AXP. You may have met her when she was a student in 2002, Session 3 or you may have been in her group when she was a counselor in 2006, 2008, 2009, and 2010. As you will imagine, we liked her so much we had to give her a job.

Mo with Carl St.Clair at Heisler Park on Pageant Day, 2010

Yolanda grew up in Santa Ana, graduating from St. Margaret's. Her favorite art form is vocal music, followed closely by theater, visual art, instrumental music and dance--she is a true AXP risk-taker! After attending arts-X-press as an almost-7th grader, she found a new love for theater and took her very first audition soon after.

Yolanda has had many magic moments, but her favorite one is of a student who, on the very first day, told her "I know now why you guys do this." We are so glad that we have been able to keep Yolanda for another year. She will be joined by her fellow alumni Coordinators Stephanie Garcia and Mo Jaffrey on campus this summer.

2010, Session 3 students may remember Yolanda's best friend, Eeyore

Only 3 Registration Meetings Left!

2011-04-04T16:39:00.000-07:00

It was great to meet so many of you last week in Irvine, Lake Forest, and Newport-Mesa. Don't forget that all incoming arts-X-pressers need to have at least one parent or guardian attend one of the remaining registration meetings to get their paperwork and information fees and financial aid. Students are encouraged to attend with their parents. Please attend the meeting that is most convenient for you. No RSVP is necessary!

Monday, April 4, 7:00-8:30 pm
Garden Grove Unified School District Office, Annex Conference Room
10331 Stanford Avenue
Garden Grove, CA 92840
Spanish and Vietnamese translators available

Tuesday, April 5, 7:00-8:30 pm
Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District Office, Board Room
1301 Orangethorpe Avenue
Placentia, CA 92870

Wednesday, April 13, 7:00-8:30 pm
Santa Ana Unified School District Office, Training Room
1601 E. Chestnut Ave.
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Spanish translator available

View AXP orientations on a map

2011 Forms

2011-03-29T12:47:00.000-07:00

Lost or misplaced a registration form? You can download them here:

2011 Preparation Checklist
Camper Health History
Licensed Medical Provider
Waiver of Liability
Release for Administration of Medicine
Search, Photo, Media Release

AXP Question of the Day

2011-03-23T12:21:00.000-07:00

Question: Do I need to RSVP for a registration meeting?

Answer: No RSVP is necessary. Please just come to whichever meeting is most convenient for you. Students are encouraged to attend with their parents.

AXP Question of the Day

2011-03-07T15:45:00.000-08:00

Question: When will I found out which session of arts-X-press I have been assigned to?

Answer: Session assignments and all your registration paperwork will be distributed at the registration meetings in March and April, so be sure to attend. If your availability has changed since you submitted your application, please let us know by phone or by e-mail as soon as possible.

2011 Session dates are:
Session 1 - July 16-20
Session 2 - July 23-27
Session 3 - July 31-August 3

Bonus FAQ: Can I switch sessions after the assignments have been made?
Maybe. If we have an opening in the session you prefer, we will make every effort to accommodate your request. If we cannot move you immediately, we will put you on a waiting list and notify you when/if we are able to change your session.

Welcome to the Class of 2011

2011-03-04T16:08:00.000-08:00

A big AXP welcome to the class of 2011! Welcome letters have been mailed, so look for them soon.

All incoming arts-X-pressers will need to have at least one parent or guardian attend a registration meeting to get their paperwork and information fees and financial aid. Students are encouraged to attend with their parents. Please attend the meeting that is most convenient for you. No RSVP is necessary!

Monday, March 28, 7:00-8:30pm
Irvine Unified School District Office, Board Room
5050 Barranca
Irvine, CA 92604

Wednesday, March 30, 7:00-8:30 pm
Aliso Elementary School, Multi-purpose room
22882 Loumont Drive
Lake Forest, CA 92630-3935

Thursday, March 31, 7:00-8:30pm
Newport-Mesa Unified School District Office, Board Room
2985 A Bear Street
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Spanish translator available

Monday, April 4, 7:00-8:30 pm
Garden Grove Unified School District Office, Annex Conference Room
10331 Stanford Avenue
Garden Grove, CA 92840
Spanish and Vietnamese translators available

Tuesday, April 5, 7:00-8:30 pm
Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District Office, Board Room
1301 Orangethorpe Avenue
Placentia, CA 92870

Wednesday, April 13, 7:00-8:30 pm
Santa Ana Unified School District Office, Training Room
1601 E. Chestnut Ave.
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Spanish translator available

View AXP orientations in a larger map

Now accepting 2011 Counselor Applications

2011-02-25T10:28:00.000-08:00

Do you want to be an arts-X-press counselor? Will you be between the ages of 16 and 20 as of July 1, 2011? We are now accepting applications for this summer! Download an application and recommendation form or e-mail us at arts-x-press@pacificsymphony.org with "Counselor Application Request" in the subject line. The deadline is April 1st, and applications will only be accepted via e-mail.

Interviews will begin in May. Each selected counselor will receive 100 hours of community service credit. We hope to hear from you!

Session 1, 2010

Session 2, 2010

Session 3, 2010

Alumni/ parent volunteer opportunities

2011-02-23T14:45:00.000-08:00

Want to give back to arts-X-press? We are in need of some alumni (and their parents) to help us welcome the class of 2011. We need several volunteers to help us assemble welcome letter packets for a new class of AXPers on March 2, 3-5:30 p.m. @ the Pacific Symphony office. RSVP here for details.

Thanks for the help!

AXP 2011 Applications due FEBRUARY 14TH

2011-02-10T15:49:00.000-08:00

Question of the day: OMG! Applications are due Monday???!!

Answer:

If you need to hand deliver your application , our office is located in the Harbor Corporate Park just north of Ikea at 3631 S. Harbor Blvd., Santa Ana, 92704. Office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and after-hours drop-off will be available until 6 p.m. (the building's exterior doors are locked at 6 p.m.)

View Larger Map
You can fax your application to (714) 755-5789, or you can e-mail a scanned copy to arts-x-press@pacificsymphony.org. If you fax or e-mail your application, please help us avoid data entry duplication and DO NOT MAIL THE ORIGINAL.

Admissions decisions will be mailed in early March.

AXP Application Question of the Day

2011-02-03T13:41:00.000-08:00

Come back regularly to see the most frequently asked questions about applying to arts-X-press!

Today's question: I received a 2-page application from my teacher, but I have a lot of questions about arts-X-press.

Answer: It's likely that your application is missing its first page, which contains all kinds of useful information about tuition, activities, etc. Download the information page here.

Bonus question: What is the tuition to arts-X-press?
Answer: Full tuition to arts-X-press is $675. Financial aid (in the form of tuition reductions and payment plans) is negotiated on a case-by-case basis after acceptance to the prgram. No student will ever be turned away due to their financial situation.

AXP Application Question of the Day

2011-02-02T16:32:00.000-08:00

Come back regularly to see the most frequently asked questions about applying to arts-X-press!

Today's question: Can I request a specific art form?

Answer: The goal of arts-X-press is for all students to participate in ALL FIVE art forms during their session. Trying art forms you've never tried before is part of the fun, which is why we do not accept requests for specific assignments. However, we do guarantee that you will be assigned to one of the three art forms that you indicate on your application. The five art forms are: theater; visual art; vocal music; instrumental music; and dance.

AXP Application Question of the Day

2011-01-25T17:14:00.000-08:00

Come back regularly to see the most frequently asked questions about applying to arts-X-press!

Today's question: Does arts-X-press offer financial aid?

Answer: YES! No student will ever be turned away from arts-X-press for financial reasons. Go ahead and fill out your application, return it by the February 14th deadline, and if you are accepted, we will send out financial aid info with the welcome letters at the beginning of March. We are committed to finding a solution for every financial situation.

Now accepting applications for AXP 2011

2011-01-21T15:46:00.000-08:00

We are now accepting student applications for this summer! Go to www.pacificsymphony.org/arts-x-press to download an application or find out more about the program. Students must be in 6th or 7th grade currently and residents of Orange County. Deadline is February 14!

AXP 2011 dates:
July 16-20
July 23-27
July 31-Aug. 3

Counselors, look for your application info in March.

OC Can You Play?

2011-01-12T16:23:00.000-08:00

Pianos everywhere, for everyone! Pacific Symphony announces OC Can You Play?--A public pianos project. Twenty colorfully painted pianos will be located throughout Orange County including two painted by our very own counselor and staff alum Philip Womack.

Year 1 counselor and Visual Art instructor Philip Womack

Philip's pianos will take up temporary residence at Main Beach in Laguna and Carousel Court at South Coast Plaza beginning January 16. When the event ends, they will be put up for auction to benefit the Symphony's education programs, including AXP! Got an urge to play? Come to the launch party on Sunday, January 16 at 3 pm in the Jewel Court of South Coast Plaza. Plus, you can get a head start on our Foursquare piano scavenger hunt.

You can find more info and an interactive map of all 20 pianos at www.pacificsymphony.org/OCCanUPlay.

More pictures are on the Pacific Symphony Facebook page: www.facebook.com/pacificsymphony

OC Can You Sing?

2011-01-11T16:52:00.000-08:00

Okay AXP alumni--here's your chance to sing with the Pacific Symphony!!

OC Can You Sing is an open amateur singing competition just for Orange County. No prior professional experience is required. In fact, only amateurs are eligible!

This is an extraordinary opportunity – a chance to perform with Pacific Symphony, one of the most renowned orchestras, in three of our concerts (March 17-19) featuring American Idol runner-up Katharine McPhee!

Application deadline: January 31. Applicants must be at least 18 and reside in Orange County.

For more information and eligibility details, visit www.pacificsymphony.org/OCCanUSing

So You Think You Can Be a Counselor!

2010-11-29T12:20:00.000-08:00

It is always awesome to hear from our alumni, especially when so many e-mail telling us they're dying to apply to be a counselor! Information on applying to be a counselor is distributed in March, via e-mail, Facebook and the blog. So if you have been waiting all these years to turn 16, friend us on Facebook and make sure we have your current e-mail address so that you are sure to get the info when it goes out. Or, check back here in the spring for more info!

You, too, could be like these awesome counselors from 2010.

Use the Force

2010-11-05T11:56:00.000-07:00

Did you ever consider what Darth Vader has in common with an orchestra conductor? For starters, they both wear black and carry a stick. Find out what else they have in common as conductor Maxim Eshkenazy as he leads the Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra in music from Star Wars at their fall concert next weekend.

Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra
November 13, 7 p.m.
Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall
Click here for tickets and more information

I am arts-X-press

2010-10-20T16:20:00.000-07:00

It was amazing to see so many of our alumni at the 10 year reunion this weekend! And we're psyched that so many people contributed to our giant "I Am arts-X-press" poems.

Reunion pictures coming soon!

10 Year Reunion

2010-10-15T12:55:00.000-07:00

We can't wait to see everybody this Sunday! Phone sales for the reunion are now CLOSED. If you still need to buy your tickets, this is what you need to do:

1) Go to Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall between 2 and 2:30 this Sunday, October 17 to buy your CONCERT TICKETS for $10. Be sure to tell the box office you are there for the arts-X-press reunion so they give you the reunion discount! You must have a concert ticket to enter the concert hall. The concert starts at 3:00.

2) Once inside the concert hall, go up to the second floor, where you can buy your REUNION TICKETS for $20. We accept cash, check or credit card.

We are not accepting any more volunteers at this late date.

See you Sunday!

10 Year Reunion FAQs

2010-09-30T10:22:00.000-07:00

We're so glad that so many of you are interested in coming to the reunion! Here are answers some of the most frequently asked questions about the 10-year reunion coming up on October 17.

How and when can I buy tickets?

Reunion tickets must be purchased in advance through the box office! If you buy your tickets by October 8, the reunion+concert package is only $20. After that, the price goes UP to $30, so be sure to order your tickets early! You can order tickets by calling the box office at (714) 755-5799. Be sure to tell them you're calling about the arts-X-press reunion.

Can I just buy a ticket to the reunion and not the concert?
No. The concert is part of the fun! Everyone who enters Segerstrom Concert Hall must have a concert ticket. But you CAN buy a ticket to just the concert and not the reunion. Concert-only tickets are $10.

Should parents plan to come, or just arts-X-press alumni?
The reunion activities which start at 4:30 are definitely geared towards alumni, but parents are welcome. Or, parents may attend just the concert from 3:00-4:30 at the reunion discount price of $10. Please note: we will have lots of staff and counselors at the post-concert activities which begin at 4:30, but we cannot take responsibility for supervising our youngest alumni during the concert.

Can I trade volunteer service for free admission to the concert and reunion?
We can still use a few volunteers to help us with set-up and clean-up. Please call the hotline at (714) 876-2336 if you are interested.

What should I wear?

We would love to see a sea of AXP-wear, so break out your t-shirts! If your t-shirt doesn't fit, you can by a new one at the ArtsMart, or any nice casual clothing is appropriate (khakis, cords, etc.)

Got a question that's not answered here? Leave us a comment or drop us an e-mail, and we'll be sure to add it!

Get your Halloween on!

2010-09-28T13:21:00.000-07:00

It's almost October, and you know what that means! The Pacific Symphony celebrates Halloween with two performances for the under-10 crowd.

FREE Chamber Music

October 2, Newport Beach Public Library
1000 Avocado Ave.
11:00 a.m.

A trio from the Pacific Symphony string section presents a fun and interactive concert specially designed for audiences age 5-8 years old. The program features popular works from Harry Potter and Pirates of the Caribbean, along with music by the great masters. Come ready to sing along, and be sure to stay for hands-on look at the violin at our Instrument Petting Zoo.

(Dana Freeman, MarlaJoy Weisshaar, and Laszlo Mezo pictured at right)

Halloween Goes Hollywood!

October 16, Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall
Performances at 10:00 and 11:30
Musical Carnival at 9:00 and 12:15

Cheer on the Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra (including several AXP alumni) as they take the stage with the Pacific Symphony for the annual Side-by-Side concert featuring frightfully fun movie music! Enjoy selections from "Pirates of the Caribbean," "Star Wars," "Harry Potter" and more. Don't forget to wear your costume for this wonderful celebration! Tickets and more info

If you're a little too old for trick-or-treating, you can still stay involved by volunteering to help at the Musical Carnival. E-mail edvolunteer@pacificsymphony.org about for more information about volunteer opportunities.

10 Year Reunion tickets on sale now!

2010-09-13T15:21:00.000-07:00

Come celebrate 10 years of magic!
October 17, 2010
Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall

Reunion Schedule:

2:30pm Early check-in. Come early and beat the lines!

3:00 pm Excursion flashback: Pacific Symphony performs “Pictures at an Exhibition”

4:30 pm Check-in continues and party time!

5:00-7:00pm Reunion festivities including photo retrospectives, a visit from Carl St.Clair, special performances, singing, and sharing memories with old friends

Are You Coming?

You must have a ticket to attend the reunion, and tickets must be purchased IN ADVANCE by calling the box office at (714) 755-5799 by October 11.

Concert + Reunion $20

Concert only $10

Be sure to specify you are calling for the 10-year reunion

If you are dying to attend but don’t have $20, we could use some volunteer labor! Call the hotline to inquire.

Got Questions?

Hotline: (714) 876-2336

Email: arts-x-press@pacificsymphony.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/arts-x-press

AXP Year 1, Week 1, 2001

2010 Reunion this Weekend!

2010-09-08T14:53:00.000-07:00

We're psyched to see our 2010 alumni, counselors and staff at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater this Saturday, September 11! In case you lost your confirmation e-mail, here's the info:

Tickets: Don't stand in the box office line! Pick up your tickets between 6:30-7 pm at the table next to the box office. That leaves plenty of time for catching up with your buds before the concert starts at 8 pm. Tickets must be purchased in advance, and ticket sales will be CLOSED at 11 a.m. on Friday, 9/10.

Getting there:
Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, 8808 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, CA 92618

View Larger Map

General parking is $8

Other helpful info:

We will be on the lawn, so bring blankets, low lawn chairs, jackets, etc. Feel free to bring a picnic, or you can purchase one from Bristol Farms

Beethoven looks forward to seeing you, too. Visit the Pacific Symphony website to learn more about Beethoven's Ninth Symphony before Saturday's concert.

Wondering about the 10-year reunion? Stay tuned. Tickets go on sale next week!

Dude, where's my DVD?

2010-08-31T16:19:00.000-07:00

Wondering where the group photos and DVDs you ordered are? We apologize for being a little slow! Photo prints just arrived, and DVDs should be here soon. So please be patient and give us another week or two to get them mailed out to you. In the meantime, here are some more photos to tide you over...

AXP 2010 REUNION!

2010-08-24T11:13:00.001-07:00

Hey arts-X-press 2010 alumni! Remember to buy your tickets for the 2010 Summer Reunion where you can see all your favorite friends, counselors, and staff!

The concert is on September 11 at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater and starts at 8 PM!

Tickets are $11 for students and $22 for adults and can only be purchased by calling (714) 876-2336 or e-mailing arts-x-press@pacificsymphony.org. Tickets will be available for pickup before the concert at the AXP table right outside the entrance of Verizon Wireless Amphitheater.

Feel free to let us know if you guys have any questions. We can't wait to see you :D

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS IS FOR 2010 AXP STUDENTS ONLY! THIS IS NOT FOR THE 10 YEAR REUNION. Information regarding the 10 Year Reunion can be found here:

http://www.facebook.com/find-friends/?expand=pymk&ref=hpb#!/event.php?eid=140576642639630

2010 Reunion

2010-08-12T15:19:00.000-07:00

Do you miss AXP already? Then join us for the 2010 reunion on September 11 at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater. Tickets for 2010 alumni are only $11 for students and $22 for adults, and are available ONLY via the AXP hotline, (714) 876-2336 or by mail.

If you're not a 2010 alumn, you can still get your AXP fix on 10/17/10 at the big 10-year reunion. Save the date!

P.S. For those of you following the saga, you'll be happy to know that Eeyore and Tigger were finally found drinking OJ in the cafeteria on the last day of Session 3.

Week Three Parent Presentation!

2010-08-03T07:18:00.001-07:00

We can't wait to see everyone at the Parent Presentation tonight! It begins at 6:45 pm at Newport Mesa Church, which is at 2599 Newport Blvd. in the corner of Vanguard's campus. The whole family is welcome, and your campers can't wait to show you what they've accomplished this week.

Week 3, Day 2 - Shaboom, Shaboom!

2010-08-02T00:54:00.000-07:00

Good day parental units. Your children are now sleeping peacefully, but we have an emergency! Tigger (Counselor Claudia's stuffed animal) and Eeyore (Counselor Yolanda stuffed animal) were both stolen earlier today! Don't worry though, we have our highly qualified CSI team on the case, so we should know the culprit soon enough. Hopefully we can reach an agreement on some type of ransom and return them home safely. But enough about them, let's get down to the good stuff.

We started the day with a nice breakfast. The kids then took part in some Creative Expression and Arts Workshops, and if you want to see what they were up to before they come home make sure that you show up to the Parent Presentation on Tuesday at 6:45! (More information on the Parent Presentation will be posted Tuesday morning) After lunch we got on the bus, sang a lot of bus songs, and headed down to the Laguna Playhouse where we saw Life Could Be A Dream, a 1960 based musical that the kids loved!

Oh, life could be a dream (Shaboom, shaboom)

If I could take you up in paradise up above (Shaboom, shaboom)

If you would tell me I'm the only one you love

Life could be a dream, sweetheart!

Errr, sorry about that. A lot of the songs are so catchy that sometimes I just start to sing them; this happens quite often. After the show, we had our very own special talkback with the cast where the kids were able to ask them questions about the show and their lives as actors.

After dinner we were then able to take part in a Spotlight Vocal Workshop! Spotlight Workshops are workshops that everyone takes part in for about an hour and a half so that people who didn't get placed in a certain art still have a chance to experience as many arts as they can while they are here are arts-X-press. I hope that wasn't too confusing; if it was, I apologize, I am tired. Anyways, our good friend Jeanette McMahon came in and taught us all about the voice and how to sing and conduct professionally! We then learned about the Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra and closed the night with a little activity we call Bonding. We gave out a lot of Magic Buttons tonight; if your kid comes home with one please make sure to ask them to describe their magic moment.

I am now off to bed because we have a busy day tomorrow. We are heading down to Laguna again to see Pageant of the Masters! We have all sorts of activities planned throughout the day, but to find out what we are you going to have to check back in tomorrow night!

AXP Coordinator

Garret

PS. Pictures are on their way later today. I didn't have time to upload them tonight.

Week 3, Day 1- Symphony in the Cities

2010-07-31T23:17:00.000-07:00

Mural dedicated to Carl St. Clair and the Pacific Symphony

What a great day! Everyone arrived safely this morning and we had a great time getting to know each other as our counselors led us in icebreaker games. Then, after a nutritious lunch, everyone discovered what art workshops they would be in for the duration of Arts-X-Press. After the first meeting of the arts workshops, they were assigned to a Creative Expression class.

Enjoying Symphony in the Cities

After an already productive day the fun began! We headed to Mission Viejo for Symphony in the Cities, singing some catchy tunes along the way. We took a backstage tour and saw what it takes to put on such an event. Before the concert, Pacific Symphony Music Director Carl St. Clair took the time to come see us! He gave some great advice and shared his experiences! After a terrific outdoor concert under the stars, we have finally returned home, headed to bed and are excited for whats in store for tomorrow.

We hope to see you at the parent presentation on Aug. 3 at 6:45 at the church at Vanguard.

Mo & Yolanda

Counselors

Week 2 Parent Presentation

2010-07-27T15:18:00.000-07:00

Week 2, Day 3: Pageants, Pottery, and Pizza

2010-07-27T07:20:00.000-07:00

Yo yo yo amazing Arts-x-Press parental units! Hope you all are doing well out there. This is the seasoned vets, James, Kit, and Jacob reporting to you live from the wonderful dorms of Vanguard University. Yesterday was a jam packed day full of fine arts and spicy beef for lunch (sooooo good). Let's get started so you can relive our magical adventure!

First off, after a bacon filled breakfast, your students hit the classrooms running by tapping into their creative juices in Creative Expression. We as counselors had to deal with them having high energy afterwards, so we know they got their creative juices flowing. After spending more time in their arts workshops, they already invested a good amount of energy into their day. But here at Arts-x-Press, we like to keep them busy every minute, so lunch seemed like a good call at the time. Lunch time was the time your young artists discovered a new passion for spicy beef and steamed rice. MMmm good! Plus, the ice cream machine that offers the "nectar of the University" was operational again. Let us tell you: 50 kids + staff with a sweet tooth = no bueno situation. I don't know who was more upset about the ice cream machine being broken before: the staff or the students. Ask your artists about that one later.

So after 30 minutes of healthy eating, ice cream munching, and kids asking "what are we doing next?", we jetted off to Laguna for the Festival of the Arts! After a memorable (and final) bus ride with bus songs for Jacob, we arrived at the Festival grounds. Now we can blog about this part all we want, but the young artists had SO MUCH fun at this point that they'll just have to tell you all about it. Once we got to the Festival, the awesome crew treated us to a backstage tour of the Pageant of the Masters! Afterwards, we got the chance to be creative and make our own art by scratch art, printmaking, and raku pottery. It's totally wicked!

After having tapped into our artistic sides (and after all the folks at the festival complimented the kids on how darn cute they are), we became (urban) wilderness explorers and trekked through Laguna to reach the amazing and beautiful Heisler Park (overlooking the beach too!). Once the kids plopped down and rested (they acted like they were so tired... they have great believable acting!), us counselors gave the young artists their room scores for room checks. I have a feeling these students will go home and have the sudden urge to keep their rooms clean (cross your fingers). Then the more than delicious pizza came for dinner (man do your kids love pizza!!). Following that, the counselors started engaging the students with their awesome new games.

We then headed to the Festival of the Arts where our lovely students were able to walk around to see the various masterpieces that were on display. Following that we headed to the highlight of the night, "The Pageant of the Masters". The show this year was awesome, make sure to ask your student what their favorite art piece was. After the show we hopped on the bus after a very long day (you should have seen how fast your little ones went to sleep). When we got to Vanguard, it was kind of scary waking up your children on the bus when they're that tired, but we did!!! We got them their three minute showers and in there own comfortable bed.

Parents we hope to see you tomorrow at the parent presentation. See you there, and bring your cameras!

Sincerely and ever yours,
James, Jacob, and Kit

Over and out. Peace.

P.S. The picture to the right is not a picture of us amazing counselors just so you're not confused. As you can see, there are no guys in the picture. It's a lovely photo of instrumentalists, and it just looked like it fit nicely down here at the end. So just so we're clear: picture of instrumentalists- not James, Jacob, and Kit. Cool.

Week 2, Day 2

2010-07-26T11:12:00.000-07:00

After another terrific morning of creative expression and arts workshops, we were joined by Amy Louise Sebelius, regular AXP faculty member and Director of Shakespeare By the Sea's production of Twelfth Night. Amy Louise provided an extremely useful cheat sheet so we could follow along with this tale of disguises and mistaken identities!

Small groups worked on theatrical portrayals of emotions, then we ended up with some rousing renditions of Viola's soliloquy. Amy Louise then accompanied us to Crown Valley Park to see Twelfth Night, and we even got to meet the actors and ask questions afterwards! An unexpected bonus was the fabulous full moon over the hills of Laguna Niguel.

Today after lunch, we're headed for the Festival of Arts and the Pageant of the Masters. We can't wait to see everyone at the Parent Presentation tomorrow!

Pacific Symphony violists Carolyn Riley (far left) and Cheryl Gates (far right) joined us for lunch. We had to get a picture of them with their fellow AXP violists, especially since manager Molly Pontin remembered to wear her favorite shirt for the occasion!

1st Dayyyyy

2010-07-25T00:05:00.000-07:00

Hey parents,

So your little ones are currently catching there sleep to be all energized tomorrow. First, we started out the day with the students experiencing the new games which was lead by the awesome counselors. Following that the students had there first meal here at Vanguard. All of them enjoyed the great fruit and the H2-oooohhh yeeaahhh. After lunch we hopped on the arts-x-press party bus where we learned the classic "arts-x-press song" and many others. We headed to the Laguna Playhouse where we enjoyed a wonderful musical "Life Could be a Dream" which was filled with many popular and talented actors. Following the show, the students were able to ask the actors questions about their experience as actors. After the very long ride home the students enjoyed their dinner. Then came the moment the students were looking foward to the whole day. They recieved their arts workshops assignments that they will be participating in all week.

Then they went to their Creative Expression classes where they were able to expand their artistic minds. We ended the day with the highly anticipated 3 minute showers and a special night talk with their counselors.

We really look forward to keeping you posted on the rest of the week.

Your cool counselors,

Leah and Jacob!!!!!!!!

Getting ready for Week 2

2010-07-23T17:38:00.000-07:00

We're on our way! If you have lost your packing list, bus schedule, or medicine form, you can find them here:
Packing list
Bus Schedule
Medicine Labeling Form

If you have a problem on your way to the bus, call the hotline at (714) 876-2336. Be sure to leave a voice mail including your cell phone number--we will be checking the voice mail frequently throughout the morning and will get back to you in 15 minutes or less.

We can't wait to see you!

Week 1: The End

2010-07-21T19:30:00.000-07:00

Week 1 is done, and we had such a great time with all our creative young artists. You'll be happy to know that MJ was found at last night's talent show. We can't wait to meet another great bunch of students for Session 2!

From the Counselors: Where's Michael?

2010-07-19T14:14:00.000-07:00

Where's Michael?! Everyone is busy investigating the disappearance of Counselor Cadre Jack's favorite tote bag that features Michael Jackson. Things are heating up as a suspicious ransom note has been found concerning Jack's beloved "MJ." Hopefully with the help of our attentive campers, Michael will be found soon!

Session 1, Day 2

2010-07-18T22:59:00.000-07:00

Day 2 brought lots of fun, including arts workshops and a trip to Musical Theater West to see the musical "1776."

After another yummy dinner, we were joined by guest instructor Wendy Tobiska for a theater workshop where we staged "Where the Wild Things Are." We're off to bed to get ready for a great day tomorrow as we visit the Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters.

Day One: From the Counselors

2010-07-18T22:48:00.000-07:00

Hello there lovely parents, families and followers of the arts-X-press BLOG!!

we had a lovely day today. It started with some tea and crumpets in the morning. On the bus. And then on the patio. The butler, Garret, was very hospitable and courteous. JUST KIDDING!! Your LOVELY artists arrived to campus excited and ready for the first activity of the day: NEW GAMES!! We played the Human Knot, Concentration, the Name Game, Little Sally Walker, Who's the Chief?, the Number Game and MUCH MUCH MORE :) It was a splendid way for the campers to meet and learn new names.

Then we had lunch in our LOVELY cafeteria with special guest Ian McKinnel. He spoke with a few students about being a cellist in the Pacific Symphony. We all got really excited to see him perform in the evening!

Then we got to go to our Arts Workshops and Creative Expression classes. Everybody was raving about all the fun they had singing their songs and dancing their dances and drumming their drums and painting their paintings and acting their acts. We can't wait to show you what we've done at the Parent Presentation on Tuesday night!

Finally we got on the bus to go to the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater for Cirque de la Symphonie. We learned the arts-X-press song and other various LOVELY camp songs. La la la la! Upon our arrival on the special "limo road," we were treated to an EXCLUSIVE arts-X-press ONLY backstage tour. Then we got to meet the LOVELY conductor himself, Maxim Eshkenazy. He was AWESOME! Did you know that he is a pilot? Of airplanes, and helicopters. And he parachutes too! But most importantly, he taught us to pursue our passions through thick and thin. He practices many hours a day and he sure puts on a great show!

We ate dinner and then had a surprise visit from another special guest! It was Josh Roach, conductor of the Pacific Symphony Youth Wind Ensemble. He gave us a few inside secrets of the concert and then we were off to our seats in our little family groups. The concert was FANNNNTASTIC!! Splendid, awesome, and LOVELY. The music was inspiring and the acrobatics mind-boggling. I'm sure you'll hear all about it after the Parent Presentation on Tuesday during your three minutes of LOVELY time together.

The bus ride back was very m ellow and now everybody has showered (3 minutes is up!!!) and gone peacefully to snoring sleepy sleep in the LOVELY dorms. Everyone loves to be in college (dorms.) We'll be waking up bright and early, so this is Darlene and Tina SIGNINGGGG OFFF. Good night, friends.

(written 12:43 am after Day 1. Posted late due to continuing internet outage on campus!)

Session 1, Day 1!

2010-07-17T15:14:00.000-07:00

We have had a great day so far at arts-X-press. The students all arrived safely this morning to Vanguard University. First was orientation, then "New Games!" New Games (ice breakers) are an arts-X-press tradition lead by our wonderful counselors. Before we knew it, it was lunch time at Vanguard's delicious and nutritious cafeteria- everyone made great food choices!

This (very warm) afternoon brings Creative Expression class as well as finding out which Arts Workshops everyone is in. In the (hopefully cooler) evening we will travel to Verizon Wireless Amphitheater to hear Maxim Eshkenazy conduct Pacific Symphony in a very exciting concert: Cirque de la Symphonie (complete with acrobats)!

Here are a few pics of our excursion to Verizon Wireless to see the utterly amazing "Cirque de la Symphonie."

Get on the bus!

2010-07-15T14:51:00.000-07:00

Excursion Spotlight: Target Symphony in the Cities

2010-07-14T10:56:00.000-07:00

For many, it's a must-do summer tradition - a visit to the local park for a free outdoor concert by Pacific Symphony, led by Music Director Carl St.Clair! Week 3 AXPers will travel to Mission Viejo for Target Symphony in the Cities.

For the fifth year in a row, Target returns as the title sponsor for the 2010 Target Symphony in the Cities concert series, a popular event throughout Orange County's many communities which attracts more than 10,000 people each summer. Ninety minutes before the concert there are many interactive and hands-on activities at a "musical playground" for children, which includes a conducting clinic. Children who participate have the opportunity to assist Maestro St.Clair in conducting during a portion of the concert.

For more information about these free community concerts, check out www.pacificsymphony.org.

Are you ready?

2010-07-09T09:54:00.000-07:00

This week, staff and counselors spent the day on the Vanguard campus getting ready for all kinds of summer fun! We hope everyone is ready to let their creative juices flow for a fantastic summer.

Here are some handy links to must-have documents in case you've misplaced them:
Packing list
Bus Schedule
Medicine Labeling Form

See you soon!

Excursion Spotlight: Laguna Playhouse

2010-06-30T09:40:00.000-07:00

SH-BOOM! Sessions 2 and 3 will travel to Laguna Playhouse for "Life Could Be a Dream." Meet the Crooning Crabcakes, the boy group banned from the Springfield High School prom which made it possible for The Marvelous Wonderettes to perform. The guys get one more chance at fame and fortune as Denny, Eugene, Skip and Wally form a singing group to enter and win the local radio contest and realize their dreams of making it to the big time! Will these delightfully goofy guys be able to pull it together and win the contest? Featuring such classic songs as “Stay” (Just a Little Bit Longer),” “Runaround Sue,” “Tears On My Pillow,” “Unchained Melody,” “Earth Angel,” “Little Darlin’,” “The Glory of Love,” and of course the title song. Life Could Be A Dream will leave you laughing, singing and cheering – let’s hear it for the boys!

Excursion Spotlight: Cirque de la Symphonie

2010-06-21T14:48:00.000-07:00

Kicking off the summer with a bang, participants in week 1 will attend a jaw-dropping fusion of two art forms: aerial fliers, acrobats, contortionists, dancers, jugglers and strongmen will perform their cirque acts — all accompanied by a live symphony orchestra performing classical masterpieces.

The artists of Cirque del la Symphonie include world-record holders and gold-medal winners of international competitions, and rank among the most exceptional cirque artists in the world. Pacific Symphony's popular and charismatic assistant conductor leads this feast for the eyes and ears!

Not attending AXP session 1? You can purchase tickets to the Pacific Symphony's summer series at www.pacificsymphony.org

Getting Ready for AXP!

2010-06-14T15:42:00.000-07:00

We're almost there! If you've misplaced your documents, you can download them here:

Packing list
Bus Schedule
Medicine Labeling Form

Stay tuned for the latest updates, and we'll see you soon!

Summer Orientation

2010-06-07T15:25:00.000-07:00

It was so awesome to see so many of you at Welcome Night this weekend!

We look forward to seeing everybody at the Summer Orientations:

Wendesday, June 9, 7 pm

Saturday, June 12, 10 am

Orange County Dept. of Education, Building D 1002-1003
200 Kalmus Dr., Costa Mesa

View Larger Map

See you soon!

2010 Welcome Night at the Symphony

2010-05-25T14:36:00.000-07:00

Don't miss Welcome Night just for the incoming class of 2010!
Come join your fellow 2010 AXPers and their families on June 5th to see Carl St.Clair conduct the Pacific Symphony at Segerstrom Concert Hall. The program features some great music: Ravel's Mother Goose Suite, based on some familiar (and a few not-so-familiar) fairy tales; a suite from Igor Stravinsky's ballet Firebird; and John Adam's Violin Concerto featuring Leila Josefowicz.

Tickets are still available at a discount for 2010 arts-X-press students and their families. Call the box office at (714) 755-5799 and mention arts-X-press.

Paperwork and Fees due today

2010-05-20T09:25:00.000-07:00

Today is the deadline for all paperwork and fees for this summer!

If you are dropping your packet off, we are at 3631 S. Harbor Blvd., Suite 100. Our offices are located in the Harbor Corporate Park just north of Ikea. But feel free to save yourself a trip and drop it in today's mail.

If your pink form will be late because of a doctor's appointment, don't worry! Please submit the rest of your paperwork on time and let us know when we can expect the pink form.

Please give us at least 5 business days for us to input our mountain of paperwork into the database before calling with inquiries about whether we got your forms, payments, etc. You will be the first to know if we're missing anything!

See you soon!

Meet our 2010 Counselors!

2010-05-12T15:42:00.000-07:00

Congrats!

Backstage Tour SOLD OUT!

2010-04-26T17:04:00.000-07:00

The backstage tour for the 2010 Welcome Night is SOLD OUT! But there's still plenty of room at the Welcome Night concert for incoming 2010 arts-X-pressers and their families--be sure to purchase your tickets in advance by calling the box office, and we'll see you there.

Counselor Interviews

2010-04-23T11:04:00.000-07:00

Just a few slots left! If you were invited for an interview, be sure you call the hotline to schedule your time by the end of today.
Updated 4/23 11:02am

Wednesday, 4/28

4:10

4:20

4:30

4:40

Thursday, 4/29

3:20

3:50

4:00

4:10

Wednesday, May 5

3:30

3:40

AXP Class of 2010

2010-04-13T12:06:00.000-07:00

Before you know it, we'll be all together for AXP 2010! It's starting to come together--most of the staff is hired, registration meetings are almost done, and we begin interviewing counselors at the end of the month.

If you applied to be a counselor, you should have received an e-mail notifying you if you've been invited for an interview. If you have been invited for an interview, you can choose from the following open times:
Updated 4/22 2:56pm

Wednesday, 4/28

4:10

4:20

4:30

4:40

Thursday, 4/29

3:20

3:40

3:50

4:00

4:10

Wednesday, May 5

3:30

3:40

3:50

Application Deadline

2010-03-12T17:00:00.000-08:00

Don't forget! Counselor applications for AXP 2010 are due on April 1, no exceptions. This includes your letter of recommendation.

Week 2, 2008

Calling all Counselors

2010-02-18T11:46:00.000-08:00

Do you want to be an arts-X-press counselor? Will you be between the ages of 16 and 20 as of July 1, 2010? We are now accepting applications for this summer! E-mail us at arts-x-press@pacificsymphony.org with "Counselor Application Request" in the subject line to request application materials. The deadline is April 1st, and applications will only be accepted via e-mail.

Join the ranks of fabulous counselors like these, from 2009, Week 3

We also need some help from our Veteran Counselors to welcome our new AXPers. Please let us know if you are available to help at any of these spring registration meetings:

Monday, March 29, 7-8:30 pm
Newport Mesa District Office

Tuesday, March 30, 7-8:30 pm
Irvine District Office

Wednesday, March 31 7-8:30 pm
Placentia-Yorba Linda District Office

Thursday, April 1, 7-8:30 pm
Garden Grove District Office

Monday, April 12, 7-8:30 pm
Santa Ana District Office

Thursday, April 15, 7-8:30 pm
Capistrano District Office

arts-X-press

Alumni Highlight - Ben Paltin

AXP 2012!

New AXP video!

Come back to the Symphony

2011 Reunion

Who's coming to the reunion?

2011 Reunion

Claire's CE Class

Laguna Day: The Male Perspective

Parent Presentation- Tuesday

Inspired by Inspiration

Day 2!

A few pictures from Week 3 so far...

Our Theme of the Week is INSPIRATION!

Week 3 has arrived!

Week 3 Bus and an Eddie Update

Don't Forget!

Hello from Claire's Creative Expression Workshop!

A magical day 3!

Parent Presentation - TUESDAY night

Arts X-Press Day 3

Day 2!

Day 2 Pictures (so far)

Making Believe in CE

Week 2 begins!

Week 2

The Final Countdown

CE day 4

Day three = victory!!!

Day Two! WooWoo!

Collaborating with the Animals

Week 1, Day 1

Getting ready!

Excursion Spotlight: NCI Discovery

Excursion Spotlight: Behind the scenes of The Wedding Singer

Excursion Spotlight: Pacific Symphony

Excursion Spotlight: Pageant of the Masters

Packing Lists, Bus Schedules, and Medications

New Staff

Summer Orientation

AXP Events This Week

Forms due Friday!

2011 Counselors

Forms, forms, forms!

Meet the Staff

Only 3 Registration Meetings Left!

2011 Forms

AXP Question of the Day

AXP Question of the Day

Welcome to the Class of 2011

Now accepting 2011 Counselor Applications

Alumni/ parent volunteer opportunities

AXP 2011 Applications due FEBRUARY 14TH

AXP Application Question of the Day

AXP Application Question of the Day

AXP Application Question of the Day

Now accepting applications for AXP 2011

OC Can You Play?

OC Can You Sing?

So You Think You Can Be a Counselor!

Use the Force

I am arts-X-press

10 Year Reunion

10 Year Reunion FAQs

Get your Halloween on!

10 Year Reunion tickets on sale now!

Come celebrate 10 years of magic!October 17, 2010Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall

2010 Reunion this Weekend!

Dude, where's my DVD?

AXP 2010 REUNION!

2010 Reunion

Week Three Parent Presentation!

Week 3, Day 2 - Shaboom, Shaboom!

Week 3, Day 1- Symphony in the Cities

Week 2 Parent Presentation

Week 2, Day 3: Pageants, Pottery, and Pizza

Week 2, Day 2

1st Dayyyyy

Getting ready for Week 2

Come celebrate 10 years of magic!
October 17, 2010
Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall