Frequently Asked Questions
ACT NOW!! Camps
Where do the camps take place?
This year, 2024, the camps are taking place in the basement of Cathedral Memorial Hall, a yellow brick building at 168 Church Street. Camps will take place in this location, with occasional trips to the green by the river.
How old are the participants in the camp?
There are camps for children and adolescents ranging in age from 6 to 14 years old. The age groups are: 6-10, 7-11, 9-12, 11 - 14, and "all ages".
What does "all ages" mean and what is the main age group that usually comes to this camp?
We do all ages camps to provide a mixture of ages and experience. The campers are usually between 6 to 12 and these camps happen at the beginning and end of our season. Often we get returnee campers who come back for a second experience.
Are the age categories in the camps flexible?
They are open-ended and somewhat flexible based on the maturity and interest of the individuals. Also sometimes siblings need to be together or separated, so that is also taken into consideration.
What is the content of the camps?
Campers participate in a variety of theatre exercises and games drawn largely from Nellie McCaslin (creative drama) and Viola Spolin (improvisation). They also learn a choreographed dance, and have a hand in writing a parody song as a group, which they perform as part of their Friday showcase. These exercises prepare the students to work comfortably and collaboratively as part of an ensemble. Campers write and stage a short play, which they perform as an opener to the Calithumpians play in the park at the end of the week.
How do drama camps benefit children?
There are tremendous benefits to be gained including: the aesthetic and creative development of the child, the ability to think critically, social growth and the ability to work cooperatively with others, improved confidence and communication skills, a knowledge of self, and an understanding of and appreciation for one's cultural heritage.
Who are the counselors?
The counselors are university students who have formerly performed with the Calithumpians, and have been trained in the methodology of delivering workshops in creative drama and improvisation. Their academic pursuits include such fields as art, music, theatre, education and recreation. All counselors are certified in first aid and CPR.
What is the leader to camper ratio?
Two to three counselors or instructors are with the camps at all times and we limit the camps to a maximum of 20 participants.
When may campers be dropped off and picked up?
Camps run from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm; campers can be dropped off 10 minutes early and must be picked up within 10 minutes of the end of camp.
Are the camps active?
Yes the camps are very active and campers are busy all day with theatre activities, and also spend time outside playing games.
What should my child bring to camp?
Campers should bring a lunch and any snacks and drinks for the day. Please make sure they have plenty of water as they will be participating actively outdoors.
How may payment be made?
Payment can be made by cheque, e-transfer, or cash. A non-refundable $50 deposit must be made at time of registration and the rest of the payment must be made on the first morning of camp. Payment in full at registration is also acceptable.
Can campers sign up for more than one camp?
Many campers come back for more than one week. All the camps are different to a certain extent as the content is based on the interests of the participants. In addition each week we work on different themes as the participants write and prepare their end of week play/performance.
Haunted Hikes
Where does the Haunted Hike begin?
The hike starts from the amphitheatre of the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, outside of the Cafe Beaverbrook and next to the statues of Beaverbrook and Robbie Burns on the green. The street address is 703 Queen Street.
When does the hike start?
The hike itself commences at 9:00 pm sharp every night throughout the summer, except Sundays and Mondays, between Canada Day and Labour Day. (Note: no hikes on Canada Day and Labour Day.) The on-site box office opens at 8:45 and participants are encouraged to show up by 8:45 pm to achieve the full effect of the tour experience.
Where do I park?
There's plenty of free parking close by on the streets.
What is the cost of a ticket for the hike?
The cost is $15 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. Group and family discounts are available. Family rate: $1 off per head. Group rate: $2 off per head for groups of 10 or more, $1 off for groups of 6 to 9.
Where may tickets be purchased?
Tickets may be purchased at the door (cash only) or they may be purchased in advance by emailing calithumpians@gmail.com and paying by e-transfer.
What is the duration and distance of the hike?
The hike is approximately 1.5 hours long and covers an area of approximately 1.5 miles or 2.5 kilometres and follows sidewalks through the downtown neighbourhood and groomed trails along the riverfront.
Is the hike suitable for young children and families?
Yes, we specialize in family entertainment and the hike is no exception; there are frights and surprises on the hike but many families have enjoyed the ghost tours with youngsters from five years old.
Is the hike educational as well as entertaining?
Yes the tour outlines six types of ghost/spirits and provides an overview of paranormal activity. Local history and aspects of Fredericton, from architecture to literature, are featured as part of the interactive educational experience.
Is the Hike conducted in French?
No the tour is conducted exclusively in English. A French version of the hike - "Randonnées Hantées" - may be available for special large groups with sufficient advanced booking.
Does the tour include the interior of any Haunted Houses?
No, the tour goes past some haunted buildings and through many haunted sites but you do not actually go inside any haunted houses.
Is the hike wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the route follows sidewalks and the riverfront trail, all of which are accessible.
What is Rain or Inclement weather policy?
In the event of light rain the hike will proceed as usual. If there is a thunderstorm or extreme weather, the hike is cancelled for safety reasons. If the Hike must be cancelled before the halfway part of the tour then refunds or rain cheques will be issued.
Can the hike be booked for special occasions, parties or conference groups?
Yes, special occasion or special large group bookings of the Haunted Hike may be made in-season or out-of-season with sufficient advanced notice. Special rates may apply depending on the size and nature of the group.