Cain Center For The Arts — Attraction in Cornelius

I am writing to share some concerns regarding my son’s experience in the morning art camp session this week in room 115 (9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.). My son is six years old and is a level one autistic. He is highly factual and literal, and does not understand how to fabricate or exaggerate events.

On Monday 7/21, his first day of camp, he told me that he was not necessarily yelled at, but with a pressed and harsh voice (he imitated to me how the instructor spoke to him) the instructor told him to "stop drawing and put your marker down!". While I understand that classroom management is important, I chose to extend grace and allowed him to return for a second day.

However, on Tuesday, I was approached at pickup by the instructor who informed me that because he had put marker on his face, he was no longer "allowed to use markers for the remainder of the week". I found this alarming, particularly given the nature of an art camp. Had he been hurling markers across the room or marking/drawing on other children, I would have understood the restriction. But from what I observed, he simply had a few lines on his face—something I consider developmentally appropriate and harmless for a child his age.

My son also shared that another child was similarly spoken to sharply "to put their markers away!", which further suggests a pattern of harsh tone or discipline that does not align with what I expected from this program.

Given the circumstances, I’ve decided to withdraw my son from the remainder of the camp (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday) and requested a partial refund for the remaining days he did not attend. The camp director called and informed me that my son was “spacing out and needed constant redirection.” Frankly, I find this rationale troubling. This is an art camp—not an academic boot camp. A child’s occasional distraction or need for redirection, particularly one who is neurodivergent, should not justify being spoken to in a harsh or punitive manner.

Instead of focusing on my son’s perceived inattentiveness, the greater concern should be the way he—and potentially other children—are being addressed. The tone used with young children matters, and it is unacceptable for staff to respond with frustration or sharpness, regardless of a child’s neurotype. This reflects a lack of understanding and training in inclusive, developmentally appropriate behavior management. Rather than taking accountability, she attempted to shift the responsibility onto me by stating, “Well, you should have told us he was autistic.” I find this response highly inappropriate. A child’s right to be treated with respect, kindness, and patience should not be conditional upon disclosure of a diagnosis.

She denied my partial refund and stated they would "work with our son". What mother would allow their child to return to a camp where they were mistreated? Not this one.

Will not return, do...

A couple of months ago we were able to attend a concert at the Cain Center (Ana Popovic). This is a great venue. First... parking is easy. There are plenty of spots on the street as well in the parking lot across from the venue. Second... from walking across the street where the crossing guard was totally friendly, the entering the venue, everyone was pleasant and helpful. Third... wow the lobby is well designed and a great place to meet folks before the show. And the bar had some great selections. Skipping more numbers... it was easy to find your seat... yeah, we lucked out and had tickets first row stage center. Yes the acoustics were great, and of course Ana was awesome. After the show, the artist had a area where it was easy for the meet and greet. All in all, we were very impressed and will add Cain to our list of local concert...

First-time attendee. Great facility and sound system. Footloose was performed by actors and dancers from 13-21 yo. They reportedly only had two weeks of practice, but they were great. Flawless. They offer food and drinks. Food only in the lobby, but drinks okay in the theatre if in their containers. There are bathrooms on both levels and an elevator to the balcony. The schedule is extensive , in my opinion, offering something for everyone.

Parking is a nightmare, particularly in climate weather, or requiring a handicap ♿️ spot, which are very limited Balcony seats are steeply inclined and narrow.

However, give it a try. I am...