Auditions

A Community Theater

Leave a comment

The Spotlight Playhouse is a community theater at its very heart.  Open auditions are held regularly.

Auditions for The Bluegrass Players Community Theater Troupe. Every show has a recommended age range, which serves more as guidance than a strict rule. Community productions retain only the actors necessary for the performance.

We are also the campus for the Spotlight Acting School. Spotlight Acting School primarily serves students aged 4-18, but it also occasionally presents intergenerational shows. Adult actors volunteering in school productions are not required to pay tuition. The school strives to keep student tuition affordable, with financial aid available. Every student is guaranteed a role. Enrollment is straightforward and can be finalized on the audition day.

Auditions for both groups are hosted on the Spotlight Acting School website and designated by SAS (Spotlight Acting School) or BGP (Bluegrass Players)

Chad Hembree, Executive Director of Spotlight, will gladly answer any questions about joining either group.
chad@spotlightactingschool.com or 859-661-0600

News/Blog

Pay What You Can Performances

Leave a comment

Pay What You Can Performances

The “Pay What You Can” initiative at The Spotlight Playhouse is part of our commitment to making the performing arts accessible to all. These performances allow you to decide the price of your ticket. Whether you use your spare change for an evening of theater or choose to contribute a bit more to help further our cause, every bit counts. Make sure to review the rules below before your visit.

RULES:

  • “Pay What You Can” performances usually take place on Friday evenings for applicable productions.
  • Unsold tickets will be made available online or at the box office two hours before the performance starts, on a first-come-first-served basis.
  • Tickets purchased under the “Pay What You Can” initiative are non-transferable and cannot be resold.
  • All ticket sales are final and non-refundable.

Important Note: Pay What You Can pricing does not apply to dinner theater productions, which require advanced reservations at standard pricing.

Musical, Show, Spotlight Acting School, Teen Actors

Madagascar: A Musical Adventure JR (May 1- 10)

Presented by Spotlight Acting School

Performed by students ages 9–14

Get ready to “Move It, Move It” with Spotlight Acting School’s talented young performers as they take you on a wild, laugh-out-loud journey from New York City to the zaniest island in the world!
Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the Hippo, and a hilarious team of plotting penguins as they escape from the Central Park Zoo and find themselves on the madcap shores of Madagascar. Along the way, these lovable friends discover the true meaning of friendship, teamwork, and adventure—with plenty of toe-tapping songs and big belly laughs for the whole family.

With colorful characters, upbeat music, and non-stop fun, Madagascar JR. is a perfect night out for kids, parents, and anyone who loves a musical adventure. Don’t miss your chance to cheer on our amazing cast of 9–14-year-olds as they bring this smash DreamWorks hit to life on stage!

Perfect for: Families, kids, and musical theater fans of all ages. Gather your crew and get ready for a show that’s bursting with energy and heart!

Blue Cast (May 1-3)

Book now

Purple Cast (May 8 – 10)

Book now

Adult Actors, Child Actors, Drama, Show, Teen Actors, The Bluegrass Players

The Secret Garden (May 1 – 10)

Script and Direction by Dana Hendren
Presented by the Bluegrass Players
Step into a world of mystery, hope, and blooming magic as the Bluegrass Players bring Dana Hendren’s brand new adaptation of The Secret Garden to the Spotlight Playhouse stage!
Based on Frances Hodgson Burnett’s beloved novel, this enchanting play follows young Mary Lennox as she is sent to live with her distant uncle in a lonely, windswept manor. There, she discovers a hidden, neglected garden—and with the help of new friends, unlocks its secrets and transforms not only the garden, but the lives of everyone around her.
Dana Hendren’s heartfelt script and direction bring all the wonder, charm, and timeless lessons of the classic story to life, inviting audiences of all ages to experience the healing power of friendship, nature, and hope.
Perfect for: Families, fans of classic literature, and anyone who loves a story of renewal and discovery. Gather your loved ones for an unforgettable journey into the heart of The Secret Garden!
Adult Actors, Musical, Show, The Bluegrass Players

Annie: The Musical (May 15-24)

Leapin’ lizards — Annie is coming to The Spotlight Playhouse! Join the Bluegrass Players for this beloved, feel-good musical packed with big songs, big heart, and the kind of family-friendly storytelling that leaves you smiling all the way home. From the streets of New York City to the bright lights of a brand-new tomorrow, Annie reminds us that hope can show up when you least expect it.

This production was originally scheduled as a Dinner Show, but due to unexpected complications, we’re moving forward as a standard performance instead. And as they say in showbiz… the show must go on!
The Bluegrass Players have worked incredibly hard to bring this beloved musical to life, and we’re grateful for the support of our sponsors — especially CG Bank — for helping make these performances possible. From the streets of New York City to the promise of a brand-new tomorrow, Annie is packed with heart, humor, and unforgettable music for the whole family.
We’re excited to present six great performances, and we hope you’ll join us to cheer on this cast and support the work happening on our stages all season long.

 

  • Fri, May 15 @ 7:00 PM
  • Sat, May 16 @ 7:00 PM
  • Sun, May 17 @ 2:00 PM
  • Fri, May 22 @ 7:00 PM
  • Sat, May 23 @ 7:00 PM
  • Sun, May 24 @ 2:00 PM

📍 VENUE:
The Spotlight Playhouse, 214 Richmond Road, Berea, KY


Book now

Child Actors, Dinner, Family-Friendly, Show, Spotlight Acting School

Annie KIDS (May 29 – Jun 7)

Performed by Spotlight Acting School Students (Ages 4–11)

Join us for Annie KIDS, presented by the talented students of Spotlight Acting School! This family-friendly production brings all the heart, humor, and hope of the classic story to the stage in a fun, kid-centered version that’s perfect for audiences of all ages.

These performances are general admission and are show-only (no dinner service). We have two casts performing on different weekends, so be sure to double-check your date when purchasing tickets: the Blue Cast performs the first weekend and the Purple Cast performs the following weekend. Come cheer on your favorite performer — and help us keep creating opportunities for young actors to learn, grow, and shine onstage.

We’re excited to share our Spotlight Acting School kids this season — and we’re especially grateful to CG Bank, our sponsor, for helping make these performances possible!
Two of these performances were originally scheduled as Annie KIDS Dinner Shows, but due to unexpected complications, we’re moving forward with these nights as standard performances instead. And as they say in showbiz… the show must go on!
We’re grateful for your support as our students learn, grow, and shine onstage. Come cheer on your favorite performer and help us keep creating opportunities for young actors right here in our community.
Book now

Spotlight Acting School

Creative Arts Camp (Rising 1st Graders – 9th Grade) June 8 – 12

🎭 Spotlight Acting School’s wildly popular Creative Arts Camp is back! Students are challenged to learn and participate in many art activities that foster a lifelong appreciation of all things creative.

🗽 This year’s theme is: New York, New York! ✨ From bright lights to big-city creativity, campers will explore a variety of performing and visual arts inspired by the energy of NYC.

Paperwork & Notes: The required paperwork will be filled out upon the first drop-off. Today’s online payment will also collect the student’s name and age, reserving your spot in the camp. Any special needs can be communicated at the first drop-off. If your student has any special dietary restrictions or allergies, please let us know, as we may share some treats.

📝 Details below:
💰 Cost for the week: $150.00
💫 Camp tuition is non-refundable and will not be pro-rated.
🍱 Bring a packed lunch (Students may also have food delivered through DoorDash, Uber Eats, or pizza delivery services)
👥 Rising 1st Graders – 9th Grade (Activities will be divided by age groups)
⏰ Drop-off begins: 7:45 AM
🔄 Pick-up by: 4:00 PM
📅 Monday–Friday: June 8–June 12
💧 We recommend that campers bring a water bottle.

🎨 Students will take part in 6 classes each day. Classes will include musical theater dance, design (set/costumes), stage makeup, visual art, music, acting, and more. We have a full week of FUN prepared!
✨ On Friday, we’ll have a short presentation to show parents/families what we’ve been working on.

⭐ Space is limited—please reserve your spot today!

📍 Location: The Spotlight Playhouse, 214 Richmond Road, Berea, KY 40403
📞 Questions: chad@spotlightactingschool.com or call 859-756-0011
🤝 Volunteers wishing to help with camps may contact: chad@spotlightactingschool.com

Save your spot and enroll today!

Family-Friendly, Spotlight Acting School

Summer Workshop Intensive for Ages 9 to 99 (June 14 – 27)

🎶 Oh, Those Summer Nights (2026) — Enrollment Now Open! 🎶
✨ A Summer Workshop Intensive for Ages 9 to 99 ✨
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Community members, parents, and grandparents are welcome to join the fun!
Get ready for a high-energy musical celebration of the 1950s and 1960s! 🕺💃
This fast-paced summer intensive features great songs, fun group numbers, and a chance for every performer to shine. In just two weeks, participants will build skills in singing, movement, stage presence, and performance confidence—then bring it all together in two live performances on the Spotlight stage! 🎭

📅 Dates, Times, and Performances

 

🗓️ Workshop Dates: June 14–27, 2026
Quick Enrollment Meeting Sunday June 14, 5:30pm
🎤 Rehearsals:
✅ Mon–Fri, June 15–19: 5:30–7:30 p.m.
✅ Mon–Thu, June 22–25: 5:30–7:30 p.m.
📌 Note: Rehearsal times are fixed at 5:30 p.m. to accommodate our full summer production schedule.
🌟 Two Live Performances:
🎭 Friday, June 26 @ 6:30 p.m.
🎭 Saturday, June 27 @ 6:30 p.m.
⏰ Performer Call Time: 5:30 p.m. (one hour before curtain)
💵 Cost & Costumes
💙 Cost: $150 per family
Bring the whole family and enjoy this summer intensive together for one flat rate!
👗 Costumes: Participants will provide their own costumes. Simple 1950s- and 1960s-inspired costume guidance will be provided upon enrollment.
🎭 About the Spotlight Workshop Series

Building on the incredible energy of our current production of Puffs (opening this August!), Spotlight is proud to continue this new series designed to bridge the gap between generations and experience levels. ⭐

✅ No Audition Required to Join!
Unlike traditional community theater, there are no competitive auditions to be part of this production. Everyone who enrolls will be in the show.
🎙️ While the director will select specific soloists from within the group during the process, our primary goal is to get you on stage without the stress of an initial tryout.
For the first time in Spotlight’s history, we are intentionally bringing adult students into the rehearsal room alongside our younger performers. Whether you’re a college student who never got the chance to try theater, or a retiree looking for a rewarding new hobby, this workshop is designed for you. Experienced performers and brand-new beginners work side-by-side in a supportive, high-energy environment. 🙌
📝 How to Join
Enrollment is available online through our registration link. Spots are limited, so join us and make some summer memories onstage! 🌙🎶
📍 Location: Spotlight Acting School | 214 Richmond Rd N, Berea, KY
📧 Questions? Contact Chad Hembree at chad@spotlightactingschool.comREGISTER HERE
Adult Actors, Show, The Bluegrass Players, Thriller

Macbeth (Jun 19-28)

Presented by the Bluegrass Players
Directed by Edwin Tait and Jennifer Woodruff
Step into the shadowy world of ambition, prophecy, and betrayal as the Bluegrass Players bring Shakespeare’s classic tragedy, Macbeth, to life on the Spotlight Playhouse stage.
When a valiant Scottish general receives a chilling prophecy from three mysterious witches, he and his fiercely driven wife embark on a dark and fateful journey toward power. What follows is a gripping tale of unchecked ambition, moral unraveling, and the haunting consequences of every choice.
This production promises edge-of-your-seat suspense, unforgettable performances, and a fresh vision of one of literature’s most iconic stories. Experience the tension, the intrigue, and the raw emotion as Macbeth’s world spins out of control—where no one is truly safe and fate is always watching.
Whether you’re a longtime Shakespeare fan or completely new to the Bard, you won’t want to miss this bold, atmospheric staging that makes the timeless story feel more relevant than ever. Join us for an evening of drama, intensity, and theatrical magic!
Perfect for: Lovers of drama, suspense, and classic theater. Gather your friends and family for a night you’ll be talking about long after the final curtain falls.
Ticket availability coming soon.
Spotlight Acting School

Film Acting Camp (Jun 29-Jul 3)

🎬 Film Acting Camp
📅 June 29 – July 3, 2026
📍 The Spotlight Playhouse | Berea, KY

Step into the world of on-camera acting this summer at Spotlight! Film Acting Camp is a fun, hands-on week for rising 6th graders through age 18 who want to grow as actors, build confidence on camera, and create exciting performance footage of their own. 🎥✨

👥 Meet the Instruction Team

⭐ Kat Davis (Spotlight team member since 2024)
After heading up our recent technical theater intensives, Kat is excited to lead this year’s focus on film performance.

🎭 Chad Hembree, Executive Director
Joining the camp to support students throughout the week.

🎓 Mason Hembree
Returning to assist after completing his junior year as a Performing Arts major.

🌟 Highlights of the Week

🎥 On-Camera Technique
Learn the nuances that make screen acting feel real and compelling.

🎭 Scene Work & Self-Taping
Build essential modern skills in self-taping and scene study.

📼 Acting Reels
Each student will help create material for a short acting reel to take home!

🗓️ Camp Logistics

⏰ Hours: Drop-off begins at 7:45 AM | Pick-up by 4:00 PM
💵 Tuition:$150 for the week
📍 Location: The Spotlight Playhouse, 214 Richmond Road, Berea, KY 40403

🥪 Lunch & Break Policy

🏫 Stay on Campus
To ensure the safety of all participants (especially our middle school students), leaving campus for lunch is not permitted for any student, regardless of age.

🍎 Lunch Options
Students should bring a packed lunch and a water bottle each day.

🍕 Delivery Permitted
Older students are welcome to use DoorDash or have pizza delivered to the Playhouse, provided it does not disrupt the camp schedule.

✅ How to Register

🎟️ Space is limited to ensure every student gets ample time in front of the camera. Reserve your spot today!

📞 Questions? Contact Chad at 859-756-0011 or chad@spotlightactingschool.com

📌 Please Note: Tuition is non-refundable and will not be pro-rated. Comfortable clothes for movement are recommended.

ENROLL HERE