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

ICE Campers at Play (2009-2010) | Photo by David Barrow Wiley
Irene Olivia Colbert Edmonds (1908-1968)
Irene Olivia Colbert Edmonds (1908-1968)

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 2024 | 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

Camp Councelors huddled in a circle Hiring Notice

We look to hire enthusiastic, exciting, and engaging individuals who are passionate about singing, dancing, and all things theatre.

Camp Councelor with a clipboard in hand 2024 Application

A camp counselor’s duty is to supervise, lead, and create meaningful experiences and unforgettable memories for their campers.

ICE Youth Theatre Production Flyer

ICE Camp

  • Wrestling with Angels (2011-2012) | Photo by C.A. Blide
  • 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.

  • House of Jene Rene (2013-2014) | Photo by Jamal Coleman
  • How the Snake Got Its Rattle (2012-2013) | Photo by Kimberly Harding
  • 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.
  • Josiah Returns (2013-2014) | Photo by Kimberly Harding