The Pops Orchestra’s “It’s the Pits!” Summer Music Camp Brings Young Musicians and Professionals Together for Disney’s ‘Newsies Jr.’

The Pops Orchestra is proud to collaborate with the Florida Cultural Group Education Department to present “Camping with The Pops: It’s the Pits!”, a summer music camp made possible through the generous support of the Manatee Community Foundation and The Hecht Foundation. Following the tremendous success of last year’s collaborative camp production of Disney’s Mary Poppins Jr., which drew standing-room-only audiences, this year’s presentation of Newsies Jr. promises another incredible showcase of talented young musicians and performers.

Taking place July 13–18, 2026, the program offers middle school and high school band and orchestra musicians a rare, free opportunity to perform as the live pit orchestra for the Manatee Performing Arts Center’s production of Disney’s Newsies Jr. Inspired by the true story of the Newsboys Strike of 1899, Newsies Jr. is a high-energy musical filled with memorable songs, dynamic choreography, and an uplifting message of courage, determination, and teamwork. Together, these young musicians and performers will bring this beloved Disney musical to life in a unique camp that brings together young singers, actors, dancers, and instrumentalists.

Through this pit orchestra summer camp, students gain hands-on experience in a professional theater environment while developing their musical skills, confidence, and appreciation for live performance.

“When we look at the many applications of music education in our schools, performing in a pit orchestra is often overlooked, yet is something students highly value, and can be a tremendous source of income in the future,” says Pops Orchestra Managing and Artistic Director Robyn Bell. “Many musicians earn a living playing in pit orchestras, not only on Broadway, but even here locally at places such as Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, the Asolo, the Venice Theatre, and Florida Studio Theatre. We are proud to offer a camp that focuses on this specialty music-making experience, and teaming with the Manatee Performing Arts Center’s summer camp is the perfect synthesis to watch all of the magic happen.”

These collaborations reflect a shared commitment to expanding access to arts education and providing transformative experiences for young people throughout the community.

The week-long camp experience culminates in two public performances at the Manatee Performing Arts Center, located at 502 3rd Ave W., Bradenton, FL 34205, on Friday, July 17 at 7:00 PM and Saturday, July 18 at 10:00 AM. Community members are invited to attend and support these talented young performers as they take the stage for a memorable weekend of live theater and music.

Tickets for either performance can be purchased at ManateePerformingArtsCenter.com or by calling the Box Office at 941-748-5875.