Tomato Patch Visual and Performing Arts Workshops- Frequently Asked Questions

2016 Tomato Patch FAQ's
The longest running, most successful summer arts program
in central New Jersey, now in its 43rd year!

Click Here for Downloadable Registration Form

Is there still room? 

·         We don’t turn kids away from Tomato Patch, there is always room for one more!

What’s the enrollment deadline?

·         Tomato Patch’s Session I deadline is set for June 15, 2016 while Session II and Master Class deadlines are July 15, 2016.

How does the registration process work?

·         Download our 15 page packet that includes necessary medical forms, course selections, before and after care information, etc.  Complete the forms and attach your payment in full and send it to the address provided.

·        You and your child will need to select classes and complete the provided paperwork together.

·        Return the package along with your tuition and doctor’s immunization records by the deadlines listed, the sooner you return it the more likely you are to get your first choice of classes.

What's the difference between Performing Arts and Visual Arts?

·         Performing Arts includes things that are performed on stage; Acting, Singing & Dancing.

·         Visual Arts includes things that you create by hand; Sculpture, Painting, Computer Art.  Not all Performing Arts classes are included in the public performance, some are "on-stage" classes performed for their peers on the last day of class.

What classes are offered?

·         There is a wide range of classes offered in our program; from Children’s Theatre to Computer Art, from Hip Hop to Two-Dimensional Design, from Vocal Solos to Web Video, from Comedy to Stage Combat!

Which classes fill up?  And why?

·         Some classes fill up due to limitations of supplies or space; for example, the Computer Arts classroom only has 20 computers!

Who is your staff?  What are their qualifications?

·         Our staff is a talented group made up of Arts and Education professionals; in fact, most are Tomato Patch alumni!

What should my child wear?

·         They should be comfortable in the summer heat, but warm in the air-conditioned classrooms.  Also, keep your child’s classes in mind; flip-flops, for example, will only hinder your child in a dance or stage combat class!

What about lunch?

·         MCCC has a full-serve cafeteria on campus; they offer anything your child could want for lunch from hot platters to cold sandwiches and freshly made salads!  An average lunch costs approx. $6.00.  Your child is also welcome to bring their own lunch!

Where are the classes held?

·         Tomato Patch classes take place throughout the college campus including the Kelsey Theatre stage.  Students are taken on a tour, given a map AND escorted between classrooms in groups!

What kind of supervision is offered during lunch and between classes?

·         Our staff is partially made of counselors; they are college-aged staff members and are there to assist/oversee the students throughout the course of the day.

What about Before and After Care?

·         Tomato Patch offers Before Care 7:15 am – 8:45 am for $40 per week, while After Care is available 4:15 pm – 6:00 pm for $60 per week.

·         Students must be pre-registered for this service so we can ensure staff coverage.  This care is available for Master Class and Fantastic Fridays as well as the 3 & 4 week sessions.

·         Students are encouraged to read, do crafts, play games or rehearse what they’ve learned in Tomato Patch with their classmates! 

 If you have questions, email to projects@mccc.edu or call (609) 570-3566.

Funding for Tomato Patch has been made possible in part by the Mercer County Cultural and Heritage Commission through a grant from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State.