Theatrical Debut for a Refugee Client

ritz theatre

Theatrical Debut for a Refugee Client

For over two decades, The Ritz Theatre in Oaklyn, New Jersey, has been putting on live quality performances for many to enjoy.  One refugee youth, Miss Oh Na Sa, was lucky enough to hone her skills at the Ritz Theatre’s “Summer Theatre Arts Camp” for two weeks this summer.

theatre debut
Oh Na Sa

Attending summer camp is a unique opportunity for refugee youth, as many families encounter obstacles to sending their children to camp. For Oh Na Sa, she is happy that she has been able to attend the camp fives day a week, especially enjoying the singing and dancing activities. Additionally, she saw her first live show on the camp’s trip to see Matilda performed live in New York City.

This summer camp experience was possible thanks to scholarships from the Ritz Theatre and the Refugee School Impact Program at Catholic Charities, Diocese of Camden (funded by the New Jersey Division of Family Development). Catholic Charities provided essential services for refugee youth, including assistance in enrolling and preparing for camp and providing case management around language and cultural differences.

Miss Oh Na Sa will have her debut at the Ritz’s summer camp show on Friday, August 15th.  Francis Apau, the Burmese Bilingual Case Manager Aide at Catholic Charities, said that this was a once in a life time experience for her and he is glad that she was able to participate this summer. Thanks to the Ritz Theatre and the Refugee School Impact Program, Oh Na Sa will be a shining star for her family and new community in New Jersey. Already planning for the future, she wants to attend again next year!

Learn more about Refugee and Immigration Services.

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