From Student to Teacher
This summer marks a special milestone at Charlotte Academy of Music. For the first time, two of our summer camps will be led by CAM-trained students who grew up in our programs and were inspired to take their passion for the arts even further. It’s a moment that beautifully reflects what we hope every child experiences at CAM: artistic growth, confidence, and a lasting love for creativity.
Meet Anika Ryder and Kaitlin Healy—two remarkable young artists who are now stepping into leadership roles for our Bluey & Mickey’s Clubhouse Camp and Broadway Bound: High School Musical Edition.
Anika has appeared in three CAM musical theatre productions and took on a leadership role as Student Director for our summer production of Matilda Jr. Most recently, Anika performed with our SHINE Musical Theatre troupe at the Junior Theatre Festival, earning rave reviews from the judges and bringing home the Excellence in Acting Award. Anika’s journey with CAM began years ago with her very first role on a CAM stage as Sharpay in High School Musical. This summer, she’s thrilled to help lead a High School Musical themed camp coming full circle in the most CAM way possible. Anika also played the role of Cogsworth in our production of Beauty and the Beast, and Miss Hannigan in Annie. She is currently preparing to portray Berthe in Pippin and Mrs. Gibbs in Our Town, productions at CATA.
Kaitlin has also grown up in our programs from voice lessons and assisting as Camp Counselor to serving as Stage Manager for multiple SHINE Musical Theatre productions. Kaitlin also performed the role of Star to Be in our production of Annie Jr. Her behind-the-scenes leadership and onstage experience make her a wonderful mentor for younger campers as she helps lead Bluey & Mickey’s Clubhouse and Broadway Bound summer camps.
“This is one of those full-circle moments that truly fills my heart,” says Regina Ziliani, Owner of Charlotte Academy of Music. “Watching Anika and Kaitlin grow from our students into confident leaders is exactly why we do what we do. They were inspired here, they worked hard to develop their craft, and now they’re giving that inspiration back to our younger students. I couldn’t be more proud of the young artists—and young leaders—they’ve become.”
This summer isn’t just about camps. It’s about mentorship, inspiration, and showing younger students what’s possible when creativity is nurtured over time. From campers, to cast members, to student leaders—that kind of nurtured growth is what CAM is all about.