Choya Japanese Cuisine
By Bonnie Small

So you think you know sushi? Choya Japanese Cuisine has launched in Dana Point’s Ocean Ranch and its goal is to heighten American-style sushi to its pinnacle in addition to introducing authentic Japanese-style sushi to an eager South OC audience. Chef S.B. See personally selects the fish each day and offers only the finest that the waters of Boston, Hawaii and Japan can offer – no lesser varieties are ever substituted.

After noshing on an order of piping hot Garlic Edamame, we dove into an amazing selection of fresh Kumamoto oysters, sweet shrimp, tuna, and yellowtail sushi, each of which were textural perfection. We then tasted the Mexican Roll which exceeded every expectation – each component was perfectly executed, beautifully presented and unbelievably delicious.

Traditional Japanese sushi has little to do with the multitudinous variations of the California Roll that are synonymous with American sushi. Chef See is introducing South OC to Donburi, which literally translates to “bowl.” We opted for the Chirashi Don, a bowl of über-fresh salmon, tuna, octopus, eel & scallop sashimi beautifully arranged atop a bed of sushi rice and garnished with a quail egg. In a word, it was transformative.

I could not resist trying the red snapper sashimi, which was flown in from Japan that morning, sliced Carpaccio-thin, and dressed with a lightly vinegary sauce – it just melted in my mouth. The landlubbers in our party were thrilled at Choya’s non-fish options which are prepared with equal attention to detail – a favorite at our table was the free-range chicken breast with balsamic teriyaki sauce.

Looking for a little something sweet to finish off the meal, we were delighted with our richly colored and velvety smooth green tea ice cream and rumor has it that red bean ice cream is arriving soon!

32545 Golden Lantern • Dana Point

949.488.0933 • ChoyaJapaneseCuisine.com

Halstrom Academy
By Shelley Hudson

Mission Viejo’s Halstrom Academy thinks outside the box when it comes to educating 6th through 12th graders. The school’s one student, one teacher approach is the core principal behind its academic success and an impressive college admissions record backs that up. An environment where customized schedules, online classes and a content mastery philosophy that allows students to progress at their own pace is the norm at Halstrom, not the exception.

Most notable is Halstrom’s hyper-focus on the individual needs of each and every student. How the Academy engages its students is equally as important as the curriculum it provides. By implementing a one size does not fit all environment – students, parents, teachers and the school’s administrative staff partner to develop a tailored plan for individualized learning. Whether a student’s vocation or sport requires remote classroom access, or a child thrives through one-to-one instruction, Halstrom employs a cooperative approach with no limits to achieving academic excellence.

Katie Vandermost
Creative Writer / Artist / Intern / Volunteer / Student Body President

This Fall will mark Katie Vandermost’s third year at Halstrom Academy. She excelled at her former school, but found the “existing friend groups” intimidating and the schedule daunting. She was originally introduced to the school by a neighbor. “I went to an open house and fell in love with everything,” enthuses Katie. “At Halstrom, I’m able to think freely. I have room in my life for creative outlets, and I’m more motivated to succeed. I have real relationships with my teachers, and I know when I’m doing something right.”

Katie’s involvement with the National Charity League and her summer internship at a local ad agency keep her busy but grounded. “I just wouldn’t have the time to dedicate to my other interests if I went to another school,” Katie acknowledges, “This way I can do everything I like but still have fun along the way.”

Connor Perkins
Eagle Scout / Marine Biology Enthusiast / Piano Student / Athlete

Social Studies and Science are Connor Perkins’s favorite subjects, but this almost-ninth-grader has a lot more on his mind than the next midterm. He found attending a school with six jam-packed classes per day both stressful and limiting. Connor’s mom, Marianne, explains, “Everything is so efficient at Halstrom. Connor missed sports practices and time with family because of the heavy homework burden at his former school. Now he can have the lifestyle he wants and still experience academic growth.”

According to Connor, the rank of Eagle Scout would have been impossible to obtain without a flexible schedule. His final project for the Scout promotion was a booth at Newport Beach’s “Kelp Fest” which included a touch tank and other educational materials. “It was a lot of work to put together and report on,” says the ambitious teen, “but definitely worth it.”

Summer & Serenity Phillips
Competitive Equestrians / Athletes / Aspiring / Veterinarian and Chemist

Sisters Summer and Serenity Phillips have been riding horses and rising through the equestrian ranks for eight years. Their grueling training and show schedules made it difficult to concentrate on studies and enjoy time with friends until they switched to Halstrom Academy. The school’s individualized approach allows each girl’s academic talents to shine and the flexible scheduling provides them time for their sport. Summer has won awards in all of her most recent competitions and Serenity has advanced her technique by leaps and bounds since they started at Halstrom two years ago. “This school has changed me as a student,” says Summer, “My teachers focus on what I need to improve.” Serenity agrees, “I just feel smarter here because I don’t get passed over.”

26440 La Alameda, Ste. 150, Mission Viejo

(949) 348-0608 • HalstromAcademy.org

[ Check out our behind the scenes footage of our Halstrom Academy photo shoot! ]

2013 San Clemente Ocean Festival

The Ocean Festival makes a splash at the San Clemente Pier on July 20th & 21st when ocean athletes from the sports of surf lifesaving, surfing, stand-up paddleboard (SUP), paddleboard, surf ski (ocean kayak) and mulit-sport (swimming, triathlon, running) will compete in the California Waterman and Waterwoman Championships. Top athletes to watch include former U.S. Olympian Mitch Kahn and San Clemente residents Rob Pelky and SUP racer Brandi Baksic.

Back by popular demand, the Stand-up Paddleboard Surfing Championships will take place on Saturday. Competition is open to all and is fiercely competitive among the many world-class SUP surfers who hail from Orange and San Diego counties.

This annual event welcomes families to enjoy its wide range of activities and exhibits. Car enthusiasts should definitely zip over to the Classic Woody Cars displayed on San Clemente Pier. Afraid of the water? Visit the Bodysurfing Clinics on Saturday where information on how to watch for rip currents and how to ride the waves will be presented just south of the Children’s Pavilion. Don’t forget to check out Saturday evening’s free concert on the beach, featuring Millertime Boogie, as the sun sets over Dana Point.

The younger crowd can dive in to loads of fun at the end of the Pier including the Children’s Fishing Clinic and Derby. At the Children’s Pavilion, located south of the Pier, hula dancers, jiu-jitsu demonstrations, and live performances by Ugly Paint and Rock the Autism will be on hand. Crafts, face painting and games – available for a nominal charge will keep the kiddos entertained all day. Don’t forget to register your young runners (ages 4-12) for the “Dolphin Dash” kid’s beach run on Saturday morning or the “Groms Rule” surf contest on Sunday morning (ages 14 and under). Space for these competitions is limited and fills up quickly.

The Ocean Art Show in Parque Del Mar, overlooking the beach, will offer a variety of artwork for purchase. Start both mornings with a hearty Pancake Breakfast, prepared by our own incredible team of San Clemente lifeguards who will be on the grills from 7 to 11 a.m. cooking up a delicious way to begin the day. Plenty of other tasty items to tempt your taste buds will be available throughout the day, such as rice bowls, hamburgers, turkey legs, corn on the cob, strawberry shortcake and shaved ice.

Sunday’s Fishing Derby is open to all ages and prizes will be awarded for the top two heaviest game fish and heaviest shark or bat ray. For those who don’t mind getting a little dirty – join in on the fun and enter the Sand Sculpting Competition. Awards will be presented for the best in the following categories: Creatures, Castles & Things, Family, and Open categories. The weekend’s activities will close with The Great Rubber Duck Race. For a mere $5, you can “sponsor” a duck and cheer it on to swim ashore from the surf line – and win a prize!

Complimentary parking and shuttles will be available at San Clemente High School (700 Avenida Pico) from 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday and 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday. For those of you traveling from outside the area, check out the Metrolink train schedule which stops right at the San Clemente Pier.

For more information on registration, event schedules, or how to become a volunteer or sponsor, visit www.OceanFestival.org or call 949.440.6141.

LJ’s Bistro
By Bonnie Small

Don’t you love it when you discover a hidden gem? I felt that way recently when I stumbled upon LJ’s Bistro in a shopping center I visit on my weekly rounds. From the outside it’s unassuming, but the edgy urban décor, enormous U-shaped bar and the tasty menu offerings are definitely memorable.

The bar is the focal point as you enter LJ’s. The metropolitan decor featuring charcoal with orange-upholstered barstools beckon you to take a seat and unwind with your favorite libation. After that, it was the concise menu that grabbed my attention. I’m the worst when it comes to making decisions, so I’ve never been a fan of menus with chapters, and though I still struggled to narrow down my choice, it was because everything sounded so good, not because I couldn’t remember what was on page 5.

Our server tantalized us with a delicious daily special of chicken meatballs delicately bathed in a tangy sauce accompanied by a light risotto with kale and sundried tomatoes. We weren’t disappointed and I really loved the delicate veggies that garnished the plate, especially the ultra-thin waffle cut zucchini.

We also tried LJ’s specialty – a pulled pork sandwich served on a warm, airy, ciabatta roll with perfectly prepared coleslaw. The chef’s citrus reduction BBQ sauce made the silky pork sing and we gobbled up every morsel. Also, don’t miss the curry fries! Thinly sliced, double fried, lightly sprinkled with a mixture of curry powder and dill and served with a delicious aioli dipping sauce, they made the experience complete.

LJ’s Bistro is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday – with lunch served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and dinner from 4 to 10 p.m. Drop by for the daily the daily happy hour from 4 to 6:30 p.m. featuring a $5 specialty martini, $4 well drinks and affordable food selections. LJ’s keeps the fun going with bottomless sparking wine for a mere $7 every day from 4 to 10 p.m.

29971 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel
(949) 495-1453 • www.LJsBistro.com

Sawdust Art & Craft Festival
By Shelley Hudson

he 47th Annual Sawdust Festival’s Summer Show is underway. Drawing over 200,000 visitors from around the world, this Laguna Beach tradition is designed to both entertain and educate. Take in the sights throughout this charming hand-crafted village from now until September 1st.

This season’s theme, “Enter a Whole New World of Art,” brings with it a few interesting changes. Marketing Director Cynthia Fung explains, “Local artists have learned to embrace the digital world and some have explored new mediums. New artists bring in new audiences, so every show is different.” With a slew of first-time exhibitors and several new live entertainment groups, the Summer Show is ever-evolving and promises to be a hot ticket.

The Sawdust Art Festival’s primary mission is to educate the public about the Laguna Beach art community at large and to promote and preserve the creative processes and methods of the artists. The Festival hosts workshops and classes year round and organizes fundraisers in coordination with other groups to benefit artists in need and their families. The Summer Show is the Festival’s signature event and is no exception. Key sponsor Subaru has donated a 2014 Forester for a raffle benefitting the art education programs and a live art auction will be held on the grounds on August 11th for the Artists’ Benevolence Fund.

Providing opportunities for artists to contribute their talents to charitable endeavors in the surrounding community is another significant function of the Sawdust Art Festival. This year’s major undertaking is the Artist Video Project—a series of 12 snippets that profile artists and their methods. The project was made possible through a partnership with the Laguna Beach Visitors & Conference Bureau for the A La Carte Festival in March. Artists designed stemware, serving ware and flatware for the March 10th event. Visitors can enjoy the resulting video series at the Festival grounds daily between live entertainment acts by the Greek Grille stage.

Since the Summer Show is not juried, the variety of art exhibited is of particular interest. Established, popular artists display and demonstrate their work alongside newcomers—each in unique, hand-crafted booths lined up along sawdust-strewn paths. Guests can amble along and watch sculpture, wood crafts, paintings, leather work, glass-blowing, ceramics, textiles, and jewelry being created right there. Over 200 artists—all Laguna Beach residents—operate booths at the event, and all art created on the grounds is offered for sale. Visitors are encouraged to ask the artists questions, sign up for on-site workshops, and attend live art demonstrations.

Activities for kids, including demonstrations and hands-on workshops, are offered daily on a first come, first served basis. This is an ideal opportunity to expose curious youngsters to the art world in a non-intimidating, fun and casual setting. Several themed days are peppered over the schedule, including Hawaiian Surf Day, Green Day, Beatles Day and Country Western Day. Check out
www.sawdustartfestival.org for details.

The Festival’s live entertainment calendar is packed with bands all summer. Music is performed from open to close daily on three stages, covering all genres. A wide variety of food and beverage options are available as well, so plan to bring the whole family and make a day of it.

The Summer Show runs from June 28th through September 1st from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. every day. Ticket prices are $7.75 for adults, $6.25 for seniors, $3.25 for kids up to age 12 and free for kids five and younger. Season passes are $15, but a more impressive bargain is the $21.50 Passport to the Arts. The Passport also gets you into the Festival of the Arts and Art-A-Fair. Freebies are offered to locals, too. Visit the website for your Orange County zip code’s free entry after 5:00 p.m. Laguna Beach residents can enter for free every Thursday evening after 5:00 p.m.

Parking can be tricky, but a little patience and planning will go a long way. A limited number of metered parking spaces are available on the Sawdust Festival grounds, but it’s best to walk down Laguna Canyon Road from downtown or park in the Act V lot and hop on a free shuttle.

See you at the Sawdust!

Sawdust Art Festival • 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA • 949.494.3030 • sawdustartfestival.org

Dr. Frank Mogavero
By Shelley Hudson

Local orthodontist Dr. Frank Mogavero found a way to combine his passion for action sports, photography, and creating beautiful smiles—with the help of a few of his most “extreme” patients. With 23 years of professional experience and a peerless reputation behind him, Dr. Mogavero has become the orthodontist of choice for many of skate and snow’s rising stars.

As an avid snowboarder and amateur photographer, Mogavero infuses an element of fun and visual excitement in to his practice. Patients can sit in an authentic chair lift, play video games in the Wii cave, surf the web, and check out the autograph wall and some captivating sports photography. Mogavero’s kid-friendly atmosphere and caring team help to calm nerves and make a patient’s visit memorable for all the right reasons.

Dr. Mogavero’s unconventional San Clemente office began attracting local skateboarding phenoms a few years ago and his practice suddenly became the go-to spot for these daring tweens and teens. Mogavero, a loyal X-Games follower, has also photographed many of the events. “I was surprised to learn that even these mega-ramp kids were afraid of the dental chair,” he recalls. “I’m glad I’ve been able to make the experience better for them.” Five of Mogavero’s patients competed in X-Games Barcelona in May 2013, “It is so fun to see my patients competing against the world’s best and earning medals on the other side of the globe!”

Although his waiting room screams “fun and X-Games,” Dr. Mogavero is serious when it comes to orthodontic treatment. His practice specializes in early treatment and facial orthopedics, which Mogavero describes as “modification in the formative years to create space for permanent teeth and to optimize growth patterns.” This two-phase method typically starts between the ages of seven and ten years using jaw wideners or braces to address issues like crossbite, crowding, oral habits, protrusion, diastema, underbite and spacing. The finishing (second) phase includes braces and other appliances. Early treatment has become the standard in the field, and Dr. Mogavero finds that most kids don’t avoid braces and other dental work like in past generations.

As the only Premier Preferred Provider of Invisalign products in South Orange County, Dr. Mogavero treats many adult patients as well. This series of progressive aligners—otherwise known as invisible braces—is ideal for adults who want the convenience, flexibility and comfort of a removable device that both straightens teeth and creates stunning smiles. As the technology has advanced, these virtually undetectable aligners are now successfully treating patients that would not have been candidates in the past.

Dr. Mogavero’s sports-influenced orthodontic practice also extends to the local community. He provides mouth guards—complete with imprinted team logos—to high school varsity athletes and also coordinates with San Clemente Youth Football’s mouth guard program. As both a father and a father-to-be, Mogavero is proud to reinvest in local youth sports. “These kids are all amazing,” he asserts, “Each one has a different story. I’m happy to get to know them and glad they can come to my office and feel at home.”

When he’s not with his family, photographing sporting events, or treating patients in his San Clemente and Laguna Niguel offices, you might find Dr. Mogavero on the slopes of Mammoth Mountain. He travels to his Mammoth Lakes satellite office twice a month to see local patients and to get his snowboarding fix when conditions are right.

Take a behind the scene look of Dr. Frank Mogavero’s Xtreme Cover Photo Shoot!

SyncYourSmile.com
Mulitple Offices to Serve You:

San Clemente • 949.373.3737
1031 Avenida Pico, Suite 101

Laguna Niguel • 949.493.7300
31371 Niguel Road, Suite F

Mammoth Lakes • 760.934.6699
170 Mountain Blvd., P.O. Box 100, PMB 122

JFC Xpress Tire Center
By Shelley Hudson

Kevin honed his skills while working at John’s Foreign Car Service – which happens to be South Orange County’s oldest independent automotive repair shop; owned by his father, master mechanic Russ Graham. Every summer growing up, he learned the ropes of the family business as well as what it takes to provide customers with both quality and value. He attended St. Edward’s School and after graduating in the third alumni class at JSerra High School, he earned a degree from Point Loma University in San Diego. After graduation, Kevin found himself in the same predicament as many recent college grads – searching for a job. He faced the challenge head on and turned it into an opportunity to start his own enterprise.

Graham combined his know-how and business education with the entrepreneurial spirit he learned from his father and opened his own tire store in early 2012. Russ stood on the corner of Crown Valley Parkway and Forbes Road with a sign pointing toward his son’s shop every Saturday. Within a year, the business outgrew its location, so Kevin moved it to a larger space adjacent to his dad’s shop. A 32-year industry veteran, Russ knew that getting the right message out to potential customers is the most difficult aspect of owning a business. Kevin is constantly reinvesting in his company and securing the latest software and equipment to offer the highest level of service to his customers.

With the expansion, JFC Xpress is able to provide a larger selection of in-stock tires as well as a full range of “xpress”—one day or less—services, including alignments, suspension work, oil changes, and brake jobs. A huge inventory of tires in all ranges are on hand every day, including high performance models, light truck and “run flats.” Graham keeps his overhead low by buying in bulk, and he passes the discounts on to his clients. In fact, Kevin states that his prices are lower than any other local shop and even lower than his warehouse store neighbor a block away. “95% of my business is referrals,” says Kevin, “and that motivates me to do the best job I can every time.” When clients find out how much they’re saving—up to $100 per set of tires—word-of-mouth advertising spreads quickly. JFC Xpress guarantees the lowest prices and will match any competitor at any time.

While most local automotive stores parse work out to other shops, JFC Xpress keeps customer waiting times to a mini- mum by offering all services in house and using state-of-the-art technology including dealer-level diagnostic software, tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) and “touchless” tire-changing equipment. This allows Graham’s technicians to quickly perform a battery of tests and diagnose issues on the spot. The “touchless” equipment ensures the perfect installation and fit of new tires without ever touching the wheel—ideal for after-market rims and high-end “driving machines.”

Kevin knows that time plus good service equals success in the automotive industry, and he’s set out to prove himself in the community he calls home. His parents, Russ and Sheila, couldn’t be prouder. “Kevin knows more about tires than I’ll ever know,” Russ admits, “I don’t even bother mounting tires anymore—I send all that business to him. JFC Xpress is your one stop shop for all your foreign & domestic car repair needs.” Check out JFC Xpress’s May specials and come see how much you can save!

JFC Xpress Tire Center
28002 Forbes Road, Ste. A, Laguna Niguel • 949 347-1106
jfcxpress.com

Take a behind the scenes look of JFC Xpress Tire Center photo shoot!

NEApolitan Pizzeria & Birreria
By Cathy Villafana

Since its debut last November, NEApolitan Pizzeria & Birreria has managed to create a lasting impression by utilizing only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients. Located on Pacific Coast Highway in South Laguna Beach, this authentic Italian eatery’s delicious wood-fired pizzas, made from scratch, small plates and wide array of craft beers will certainly please your palate and whet your whistle.

At the heart of NEApolitan’s operation is the imported red-tiled oven created by third-generation designer, Stefano Ferraro. With its classic dome shape, the wood-burning oven heats up to a scorching 900 degrees, producing authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas that rival the best of Naples.

Thin in the center and thick at the crust – and best eaten with a fork and a knife – diners will enjoy the chewy and crispy textures unique to this pizza style. NEApolitan’s use of imported flour, master artisan-created cheeses, olive oil from Napa Valley and produce from local organic farms elevates its fresh and simple dishes to the next level.

Purists may opt for the Margherita Pizza, while others seeking something out of the ordinary might venture toward the Funghi (mushroom) topped with an egg or the New Haven with Little Neck clams.

NEApolitan isn’t just about the pizza. Other selections hailing from the wood-fired oven include the Veal Meatballs Al Forno and the Sicilian Jidori Wings that are generously coated with butter, breadcrumbs, Calabrian chile, rosemary and cheese. No sauce needed.

Organic lovers will swarm over the salads embedded with locally-grown greens, vegetables and herbs. Not-to-miss favorites are the flavor-packed Roasted Beet Salad and the Kale Salad.

Open seven days a week from noon to 10 p.m., NEApolitan has an extensive wine list plus an eclectic mix of craft beers chosen to enhance your experience. Monday through Friday, customers can enjoy a Margherita pizza and salad for a mere $10 from noon to 2 p.m., or eat for half price from 4 to 6 p.m. Dine in and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating or grab take out for a quiet night at home.

NEApolitan Pizzeria & Birreria
949.499.4531
31542 S. Coast Highway,
Laguna Beach, California 92651
nealaguna.com

Bésame Mexican Grill
By Cathy Villafana

Bésame, which means “kiss me” in Spanish, is a fitting name for Gary Hutton’s restaurant. With roots steeped in traditional Mexican cuisine, Bésame Mexican Grill has produced a sophisticated menu reflecting its love and respect for the old and the new. Located in Dana Point’s Monarch Bay Plaza where PCH and Crown Valley meet, Bésame is nearing its one-year anniversary and has developed a loyal local following along the way.

The Guacamole, the Queso Fundido, or the Fish Ceviche, served with large chunks of fresh fish, mango, cucumber, chile and onion, is a great way to start your Bésame experience. The Chicken Tortilla Soup, a top pick among customers, is reminiscent of enchiladas with large pieces of shredded chicken, diced avocado, and strips of crispy tortillas – married in a rich, enchilada sauce-like soup.

Bésame features an array of main dish options, including barbacoa (shredded barbecue short ribs), carne asada, carnitas, chicken, and seafood, as well as a number of vegetarian options. If inclined, customers may build their own burrito, pick and choose their filling for tacos or a torta, or create a combination plate.

Diners may prefer the menu’s Classic Entrées, like the Carnitas Tamales, or the three types of enchiladas. House Specialties include the caramelized Carnitas – slightly crispy on the outside and juicy and tender on the inside. The sautéed Garlic Shrimp, served in a garlic white wine sauce, is cooked to perfection. The Chile Relleno, a vegetarian favorite, is filled with diced vegetables and served with Bésame’s own yellow mole sauce.

Bésame also has a passion for tequila. Serving over fifty varieties in the Silver, Reposado and Añejo categories, tequila aficionados have plenty to choose from, whether they’re enjoying it straight, on the rocks or in their favorite margarita.

Bésame is open Sunday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and 11:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. DailyHappy Hour runs from 3 to 6 p.m., and Taco Tuesday drink and taco specials are offered all day long.
Visit BesameMexicanGrill.com for more information.

Acting Academy for Kids
By Shelley Hudson

When Stephen Zygo was teaching fourth grade and running his school’s K-8 theater department, Acting Academy for Kids was just a seed of an idea. As arts programs were being slashed due to widespread budget cuts, Zygo saw a need in the community and wanted to continue helping kids discover their inner performers. Stephen and his wife Maggie took a leap of faith, followed that passion and created an environment where students are free to explore musical theatre, acting, voice, dance and instrumental music.

Acting Academy for Kids is now a burgeoning, multi-program organization, exposing young people to all aspects of the performing arts. The Academy’s home base at the Camino Real Playhouse in San Juan Capistrano and satellite location at The Gate in Rancho Santa Margarita allow aspiring singers, actors, musicians, and set designers to try their hands at the real thing. In the Acting Academy’s Musical Theater Series, young cast members produce and perform popular Broadway musicals every 12 weeks. These seasonal programs each culminate in a full-scale production with professional lighting, sets, and sound.

The Academy also offers Performing Arts Camps all summer long. These week-long sessions provide children and teens with a “full-theater immersion experience,” capped off with a performance for family and friends. Campers have the option to sign up for one week, the whole summer, or anywhere in between. “Summer camp is the perfect ‘test-drive’ for a child who’s interested. It’s a great opportunity for kids to interact outside their peer groups as well,” enthuses Maggie. With the popular camps at the Camino Real Playhouse and the launch of camps at San Clemente’s Cabrillo Playhouse this summer, the Zygos hope to get more kids involved than ever before.

In addition to its seasonal and summer camp programs, the Acting Academy provides after-school acting classes (group and private), vocal training, and guitar and piano lessons. Fundamental concepts like improv, line memorization, character development, professional singing techniques and voice-over training give the student a performing arts foundation that helps develop self-esteem. “Acting Academy for Kids helped transform my son from a shy athlete into a confident stage performer,” says one appreciative mom, “It’s a delight to see him willingly hang up his cleats one day per week to participate in the arts.”

The Zygos’ Acting Academy is more than a livelihood for the couple—it’s a true labor of love and a way for Stephen to combine his “twin passions.” Stephen and Maggie both have advanced degrees in education and they assert that the quality of the faculty sets their programming apart. “Our teachers are trained performing artists AND credentialed educators,” says Maggie, “They understand how kids learn.”

Stephen and Maggie pride themselves on the authenticity of the experience they offer as well. “We want the kids to see the real deal—an active dressing room, staging, lighting design, and set creation in a genuine working theater. Hands-on learning helps kids understand that each role is vital to the success of a show.”

With feet firmly planted in both the arts and in education, the Zygos have taken their show(s) on the road with their “school services” concept. They collaborate with schools, churches, and community centers, administering enrichment programs for organizations that don’t have the staff or resources to develop their own.

Stephen gives much credit for the Acting Academy’s excellence to the system of parents and volunteers who help bring each production to life. “It takes an army of crew, costumers, lighting and sound technicians, set designers, box office corps, and photographers to make a theater come alive” he says. “We’re proud that we provide teachers with jobs in the performing arts and that our students find friends, fun, and confidence along the way,” Stephen continues, “At Acting Academy for Kids, we aim for young performers to have all the opportunities possible to learn to present themselves, speak publicly, showcase their work, and understand the sheer teamwork involved in an endeavor like this.”

Take a behind the scenes look at Acting Academy for Kids photo shoot!

For more information on Acting Academy For Kids please visit their website.
ActingAcademyForKids.com