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Enrichment
Performing Arts
Join Valpo Parks at Memorial Opera House for a series of artistic enrichment classes— featuring some returning favorites and even more brand new opportunities! See you on the stage.
Program Details
Spend the day exploring the world of comedy! Participants will play improv games, learn the fundamentals of improvisation, and dive into the basics of sketch writing. The day wraps up with a short performance showcasing their creativity and new skills.
- Ages: 10 - 18
- Dates: Saturday, April 11
- Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Location: Memorial Opera House
- Fee: $100 Resident / $120 Non-Resident
- Register by: April 4, 2026
Program Details
Come learn the basics of improv from seasoned professionals. This relaxed, high-energy workshop lets you explore your creativity, sharpen your wit, and laugh a lot! No theatre experience needed!
Spring Program
- Ages: 21+
- Date: Tu/Th, May 12 - 21, 2026
- Time: 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
- Location: Memorial Opera House
- Fee: $100 Resident / $120 Non-Resident
- Register by: May 5, 2026
Winter Program
- Ages: 21+
- Date: Tu/Th, December 1 - 10, 2026
- Time: 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
- Location: Memorial Opera House
- Fee: $100 Resident / $120 Non-Resident
- Register by: November 24, 2026
Program Details
Aspiring performers are invited to spend the morning at the theatre! Participants will enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour, try on costumes, and learn a short song & dance. It's a fun, hands-on introduction to the magic of theatre designed just for kids.
Spring Program
- Ages: 5 - 9
- Date: May 30
- Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Location: Memorial Opera House
- Fee: $75 Resident / $90 Non-Resident
- Register by: May 23, 2026
Fall Program
- Ages: 5 - 9
- Date: October 17
- Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Location: Memorial Opera House
- Fee: $75 Resident / $90 Non-Resident
- Register by: October 10, 2026
Program Details
This is a musical theatre summer camp centered around producing a musical and learning about different aspects of theatre. Participants will learn how to act, sing, and dance, as well as how to create props, costumes, and technical elements of a production.
- Ages: 10 - 18
- Dates: M - Th, June 8 - 25, 2026
- Time: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
- Location: Memorial Opera House
- Fee: $300
- Register by: June 1, 2026
Program Details
This workshop gives young performers the tools and confidence to shine in any audition. Participants will be grouped by age so they can learn alongside their peers — preparing music, delivering a monologue, and experiencing a mini dance call.
Winter Program
- Ages: 10 - 18
- Date: Sunday, January 25, 2026
- Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Location: Memorial Opera House
- Fee: $75 Resident / $90 Non-Resident
- Register by: January 18, 2026
Fall Program
- Ages: 10 - 18
- Date: Sunday, September 13, 2026
- Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Location: Memorial Opera House
- Fee: $75 Resident / $90 Non-Resident
- Register by: September 6, 2026
Program Details
From acting and costuming to lighting, sound, and more, every session dives into a new subject with plenty of opportunities to learn by doing. It's the perfect way to explore the many roles that make theatre come alive.
- Ages: 8 - 18
- Days: Fridays
- Session Options: April 24, October 2, and December 11
- Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Location: Memorial Opera House
- Fee: $50/class
- Register by: 1 week prior
Side by Side
![]() | These programs offer hands-on experiences that bring families closer while sparking curiosity and creativity. These unique opportunities provide the perfect blend of fun, education, and bonding for parents, grandparents, and children alike. Pricing includes registration for 1 adult and 1 child. You can add another child registration for $25. (Max 2 children per adult) Please register under the Adult's name. |
Program Details
This unique theatre experience invites seniors and their grandchildren to spend the day together. Participants will spend the day creating characters, signing, dancing, and enjoying playful theatre activities— building memories across generations through creativity and laughter.
- Ages: 8 - 18 with a Senior
- Dates: Wednesday, July 15, 2026
- Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Location: Memorial Opera House
- Fee: $30 per child
- Register by: July 8, 2026
Program Details
Whether you're a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, this class will give you the chance to create your very own light-up electronic device using soldering techniques. Please note that this class involves the use of heated tools and safety will be a top priority.
Fall Program
- Ages: 9 - 15 with an adult
- Dates: Th, October 29 - November 19, 2026
- Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
- Location: Banta Activity Center
- Fee: $110 Resident / $132 Non-Resident
- Register by: October 22, 2026
Program Details
This educational experience will teach you about the role of veterinarians, how to assess the health of your pet, and do a basic examination. With games and the chance to interact with a live animal, this class is for those who are curious about the world of veterinary care.
- Ages: 5 - 9 with an Adult
- Dates: Tu, November 3 - 24, 2026
- Time: 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
- Location: Banta Activity Center
- Fee: $100 Resident / $120 Non-Resident
- Register by: October 27, 2026
Adventure & STEM
Join Valpo Parks Enrichment for a diverse range of engaging and interactive experiences for children ages 5 - 14. Our classes are designed to inspire creativity, curiosity, and a love for learning. Join us to discover new interests and make lasting memories in a fun and supportive environment. | ![]() |
Program Details
This course teaches kids essential survival skills like building shelter, tying knots, starting campfires safely, finding water, and basic navigation. Perfect for young adventurers ready to journey into the wild!
- Ages: 10 - 14
- Dates: Tu/Th, March 31 - April 16, 2026
- Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
- Location: Rogers Lakewood Park
- Fee: $110 Resident / $132 Non-Resident
- Register by: March 24, 2026
Program Details
This one-hour class explores architecture, engineering, and technology concepts using LEGO® Bricks. Students work hands-on to design and build machines, buildings, and other constructions while using problem solving and critical thinking skills. (No class 10/13)
- Ages: 5 - 9
- Dates: Tu, September 22 - October 20, 2026
- Time: 5:45 PM - 6:45 PM
- Location: Banta Activity Center
- Fee: $75 Resident / $90 Non-Resident
- Register by: September 15, 2026
Get ready for an action-packed night of Nerf fun! This 3-hour Nerf Pop-Up class is designed just for 6th–8th graders and features exciting games, friendly competition, and tons of movement in a supervised indoor setting.
We’ll supply all Nerf darts, protective eyewear, and a snack. Players may bring their own Nerf blasters or borrow one of ours—just remember, high-velocity or modified blasters are not permitted to keep gameplay safe and fair for everyone.
Program Details
- Grades: 6th - 8th
- Dates: Friday, February 27th
- Time: 6:00pm - 9:00pm
- Location: Banta Activity Center
- Fee: $50/$60
- Register by: February 26th
Enrichment Program Refund Policy
- To be eligible for a refund, cancellations must be requested a minimum of seven (7) days before the published registration deadline.
- Cancellations within seven (7) days of the registration deadline will not be refunded.
- Refunds will be distributed back to the participant through a check in the mail. This process takes 4 – 6 weeks.
- A $15.00 service charge for processing all cancellations will apply unless the Valpo Parks and Recreation Department cancels a program due to low enrollment.
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Katie Ridinger
Enrichment DirectorPhone: 219-462-5144 Ext. 6314
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Madison Bell
Recreation SuperintendentPhone: 219-462-5144 Ext. 6310

