Irene C. Edmonds Youth Theatre (ICE Camp)
In honor of Mrs. Irene C. Edmonds' pioneering work in children's theatre at FAMU, Dr. Matthews reinstated the children’s theatre and named the organization the Irene C. Edmonds Youth Theatre, aka ICE Camp
Irene C. Edmonds (1908-1968) was an assistant professor of humanities, speech and drama at FAMU (1948—1968).
Edmonds was one of the early pioneers in educational children’s theatre and worked
in that arena for 28 years.
She established the first children’s theatre in any Historically Black College or
University at Dillard University in 1935 where it flourished under her direction for
twelve (12) years. She organized and directed the FAMU Creative Children’s Theatre
(1948-1960) which grew to great prominence. Her work with the FAMU Playmakers Verse
Choir also received wide national acclaim.
In honor of Mrs. Edmonds' pioneering work in children's theatre at FAMU, Dr. Matthews
has reinstated the children’s theatre and named the organization the Irene C. Edmonds Youth Theatre.
ICE Youth Theatre Camp 2026 | Be a Part of Something Great!
A camp counselor’s duty is to supervise, lead, and create meaningful experiences and unforgettable memories for their campers. We look to hire enthusiastic, exciting, and engaging individuals who are passionate about singing, dancing, and all things thea
Hiring Notice
We look to hire enthusiastic, exciting, and engaging individuals who are passionate about singing, dancing, and all things theatre.
2026 Application
A camp counselor’s duty is to supervise, lead, and create meaningful experiences and unforgettable memories for their campers.
ICE Camp
- Since 1997, the Irene C. Edmonds Youth Theatre (ICE Camp) has been a creative force
in Tallahassee children’s theatre. This program for young people is housed within
the FAMU Essential Theatre and provides an artistically vibrant environment for youth
between the ages of 7 and 16. The ICE Camp strives to produce theatrical material
that speaks to young people concerning their capacity to inspire and create positive
change through the arts, both socially and individually.
- The young participants engage in a five-week summer program, fondly known as the “ICE Camp,” designed to expose students to memorable experiences in theatre, music, and dance—through classes, workshops, and cultural/entertainment excursions. The program culminates with a full-scale original production on the FAMU campus. This program serves as a forum for theatre majors to hone their teaching, supervisory, and dramatic skills through work with youth theatre members.
