We are dedicated to comprehensive training in a safe and supportive environment. Our teaching artists have diverse backgrounds in the arts; working artists, academics, and established teachers. Age and level recommendations, are just that; if you have questions about what Spark Programs are the best fit for your student, learn more about who A Spark Student Is.
Spark students are already passionate about theater arts and they are excited to train. Our program structure allows them an intimate learning environment and flexibility in their busy schedules.
Our Flexible Tuition model is based on the principle that a person's financial commitment should be proportionate to their financial resources. It eliminates the categories of "scholarships" and "financial aid" and replaces it with a model that empowers you to determine what you are able to pay. The Spark is committed to being an inclusive and safe space for all who create. Learn more about this unique model.
These 1-day, 3-day & 1-week specialized training workshops shape well-rounded artists by offering resume building and skills training opportunities.
Nail it and get cast!! You can’t do this one enough. How, what, when and why of a killer audition! This is a hands-on class that will focus on improving audition techniques and skills. This audition workshop will focus on the process of a standard professional musical theater audition. Students will learn the ins and out of what a professional audition will be like. They will work on and improve the material they brought to the audition as well as improving their cold reading skills. Students will end the class with a mock audition with feedback! **This is an in-person program that trains students to create and submit successful virtual auditions.
This full-day, week-long intensive for NEW performers is the perfect introduction to musical theater. Come spend the week learning about the basics of theater though the ‘popular’ musical Wicked. Students will defy gravity as they learn foundational skills in singing, acting and dance! At the end of the week students will present the skills they learned with a Wicked twist in a short presentation on the last day of the program!
Whether a veteran actor or a new performer having an understanding of safe stage combat is a key skill! In this class, we will cover a variety of different styles of stage combat from hand to hand combat to working with tools.
We’ve got 6 hours, one script, 15 scenes, 10 actors and TONS to learn! Join us as we speed through the theater process from callback to curtain up in this fast paced, FUN filled day!! Students, from the beginner to the advanced will walk away with confidence, excitement and a good amount of insider information on what it takes to perform to your full potential in a play! -- For this workshop we will be using content from our Main Stage Production: She Kills Monsters - you do not need to be auditioning for the production to join us.
We’ve got 6 hours, one script, 10 songs, 15 scenes and TONS to learn! Join us as we speed through the theater process from callback to curtain up in this fast paced, FUN filled day!! Students, from the beginner to the advanced will walk away with confidence, excitement and a good amount of insider information on what it takes to perform to your full potential in a musical! -- For this workshop we will be using content from our Main Stage Production: Seussical the Musical - you do not need to be auditioning for the production to join us.
Learn pop musical vocal skills in this Mean Girls master class! Students learn about what makes pop music different from traditional musical theater. Students learn pop music vocal techniques through the songs of Mean Girls.
This is an audition-based program open to students of all levels who are looking for a unique summer experience onstage & off. This summer you have the opportunity to perform in one OR both of our Main Stage Productions and with the option the deepen development through a Tailored Summer Training Program. Plus we look forward to building community during open studio 1-hr and through fun company events!
Rehearsals are consolidated to 3 or 4-weeks and take place mostly in the afternoons and evenings. Students in this company will benefit from our mentorship model where they rehearse and perform alongside professionals.
To be cast in She Kills Monsters -OR- Seussical you must first audition and be accepted into the Main Stage Company. Students auditioning for this program are not guaranteed admittance to the company. Once students are accepted, they are guaranteed to be cast in the show(s) of their choice.
Queer kids, nerds, and sword fights! She Kills Monsters tells the story of Agnes Evans as she leaves her childhood home in Ohio following the death of her teenage sister, Tilly. When Agnes finds Tilly’s Dungeons & Dragons notebook, however, she finds herself catapulted into a journey of discovery and action-packed adventure in the imaginary world that was her sister’s refuge. In this high-octane dramatic comedy laden with homicidal fairies, nasty ogres, and 90s pop culture, acclaimed playwright Qui Nguyen offers a heart-pounding homage to the geek and warrior within us all. *Content warning: strong language and mild adult themes.
"Oh, the thinks you can think" when Dr. Seuss' best-loved characters collide and cavort in an unforgettable musical caper! The Cat in the Hat tells the story of Horton, an elephant who discovers a speck of dust that contains the Whos, including Jojo, a Who child sent off to military school for thinking too many "thinks." Horton faces a double challenge: not only must he protect the Whos from a world of naysayers and dangers, but he must guard an abandoned egg, left in his care by the irresponsible Mayzie La Bird. Although Horton faces ridicule, danger, kidnapping and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community are challenged and emerge triumphant.
Tech Theater Crew is a comprehensive tech program for aspiring theater technicians. Hands-on training intensives and build days take place over 2-weeks. Then students are assigned to run show crews! Students in this company will benefit from our mentorship model where they work alongside professionals.
Tech Theater Crew will train and build (the sets and their craft) for 2-weeks. Students will participate in BOTH Tech Skills Intensives: Scene Shop & Theater Technology where they will learn set construction, scenic painting, light and sound operation and so much more. Plus they will participate in Build Days where they will work side by side with professionals to install sets, run light hangs and focus, and more. Then the Tech Theater Crew will work together as assigned members of Main Stage Productions’ run crews. Tech Students are welcome to participate in Intensives for Performers this summer too!
These 4-day specialized training workshops will delve into the world of technical theater offering hands-on skills training opportunities.
From literally the stage floor up, technicians versed in set construction, scenic art, and rigging techniques bring to life the locations and magic reveals that enchant audiences. Come learn terminology, build techniques, safe power tool use, and get splattered in paint as you shape your skills in stagecraft. This is a hands-on training opportunity where students will be introduced to the world of the scene shop.
Step into the booth and let’s get behind the boards! Lights & sound are integral parts of every production. Learn how to operate, cue, create effects and more as we dive into the technology behind live theater. This is a hands-on training opportunity where students will learn practical skills for running a production’s light and sound.
These half-day programs are the perfect introduction to theater play for ages 5-9. Young performers will learn foundational skills in acting/vocals/dance that they will showcase on the last day of each program!
One of the most beloved musicals of all time is this classic, Annie! Come dance, sing, and play with Annie and her friends. We’re excited to see students bringing these unforgettable characters to life for their family and friends at the end of the week. - The final performance will take place from 11:30am-12pm on the final day!
Welcome to the family Madrigal! This modern musical became a quick favorite because of it's irresistibly funny songs. Let's explore this magical world together through creative play, movement, and song. At the end of the week students will perform, what's sure to be a sing-a-long, with family and friends. - The final performance will take place from 11:30am-12pm on the final day!
"Oh, the thinks you can think" when Dr. Seuss' best-loved characters collide and cavort in an unforgettable MINI musical caper! This is the perfect program for a young performer who is ready for a more structured program. In just one-week students will learn a short and sweet version of Seussical. Students will perform alongside some of our Main Stage Seussical cast members with costume accessories and full set, lights and sound. This is an amazing performance not to be missed! - The final performance will take place from 12:15pm-1pm on the final day!
Aside from our incredible team of teachers, designers, directors, and staff; The Spark is a place where students can find the confidence to lead and take initiative in their own lives. We believe in empowering students and the community through performance. The skills students gain in our programming translates to heightened leadership abilities, stronger sense of self, and a passion for creating and pursuing value in their communities. The Spark is where creatively inclined students come to find a home and the stepping stone to their next great adventure.
The Spark follows select Actors Equity Procedures in order to expose students to the expectations and regulations adhered to in the industry. Students are also required to abide by Actors Equity Etiquette. Visit our student expectations page for more detailed information!