Website for Contra Costa Civic Theater: http://www.ccct.org

Re: Drama Classes/Camp for 13 year old
Take a look at the Contra Costa Civic Theater (CCCT). It's got a great summer program where the kids do scenes, skits and theater games so there really aren't any so- called ''stars.'' All different levels of talent... it is very well run and my 13 year old daughter loves it. You are probably looking at ''A'' camp because of her age. Anon

Re: Acting opportunities for parent & child?
I have a great recommendation for parent/child acting opportunities -- Contra Costa Civic Theatre (in El Cerrito). They have been around for 50 years and produce high quality theatre that the whole family can be involved in. Many families perform together (or a parent could run spotlight.) In fact it was founded by a husband/wife team whose children grew up acting and participating and now their children are involved. They usually do 2 musicals per year, a comedy and a drama. They also have afternoon/weekend children's programs. My husband directs, acts and is on the Board of Directors. It's a great group of folks, and we really enjoy being involved. Our son is 3 and we plan on getting him involved very soon. Check out www.ccct.org. Or feel free to call us at 510-665-7795. Susan

My daughter's (and my) favorite theater camp was the Contra Costa Civic Theater summer camp ... (http://www.ccct.org/summer_camps.html). This camp had a fun, more professional production and counselors that were nice and helpful. All kids, whether they've ever set foot on a stage or not, have fun there and learn a lot. You will not believe what a great production they put on after only 2 weeks. (If they're full get on the waitlist, as spaces do open up.) My daughter learned many acting skills, and went back for three years until she aged out. I would recommend it to someone who wants to learn the basics of theater in an exciting and supportive atmosphere. Good luck! Drama Mama

Re: Summer Day Camp for 11-year-old
If you haven't found the small community of the Contra Costa Civic Theatre in El Cerrito yet, you should! Their summer drama camps are GREAT! There are sessions for 7-12 year-olds and sessions for 12-16 year-olds. They have lovely instructors who encourage the kids to cooperate and support each other. Contra Costa Civic Theatre, 951 Pomona Avenue (at Moeser), El Cerrito, CA 94530. 510-524-9132. www.ccct.org Cathlin

Re: Any Summer Programs end of August?
The drama camp at the Contra Costa Civic Theater has a session which runs pretty late in August - this is a great camp which fills up fast, but this session often seems to have openings since a lot of kids are back in school then. Their phone number is 524-9132.