Berea, KY – The Spotlight Playhouse is thrilled to announce the upcoming performance of PRESS START, a captivating musical set in the bright, pixelated world of video games. Directed by Daesha Miller, with Bailey Smith as the assistant director, and Letha Hembree as the musical director, this family-friendly show will feature the talented students of the Spotlight Acting School, aged 4 to 11.

When famous video game characters run out of lives, they band together to put on a musical fundraiser to raise gold rings and keep playing. Audiences will be treated to hilarious and heartfelt musical numbers, offering a fresh perspective on beloved heroes, villains, and sidekicks. As the story unfolds and challenges arise, it’s the unassuming sidekick, Little Mushroom, who discovers the hero within to save the day.

PRESS START not only entertains but also highlights essential educational themes such as acceptance, teamwork, diversity, and overcoming obstacles. The production promises to be a memorable experience for attendees of all ages.

Performances will take place at the Spotlight Playhouse in Berea, KY, on June 9th, 10th, and 11th. Tickets can be purchased at the box office by calling 859-756-0011 or online at https://thespotlightplayhouse.com.

Don’t miss the opportunity to be transported into the colorful world of video games and join the adventure with PRESS START!

About Spotlight Playhouse: The Spotlight Playhouse is a community theater located in Berea, KY, dedicated to providing a creative space for performers and audiences to enjoy high-quality productions. With a focus on nurturing young talent, the Spotlight Acting School offers a range of classes and performance opportunities for students aged 4 and up.

For further information, please contact: Spotlight Playhouse Phone: 859-756-0011 Email: info@thespotlightplayhouse.com Website: https://thespotlightplayhouse.com

BEREA, KY – The Spotlight Playhouse is excited to announce its upcoming production of Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical JR., a charmingly witty story celebrating the anarchy of childhood and the power of imagination. The musical follows the journey of Matilda, a young girl with incredible wit, intelligence, and special powers. Despite facing neglect from her cruel parents, Matilda finds support in her loving schoolteacher, Miss Honey. Together, they stand up to the school’s malicious headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, who despises children and delights in devising brutal punishments for rule-breakers. Matilda’s courage and resourcefulness may just prove to be the saving grace for her fellow pupils.

Directed by the talented trio of Sarah Jeck, Kelly Fischer, and Jazzlyn Threlkeld, with Letha Hembree as the Musical Director, this captivating production promises to have audiences cheering for the “revolting children” as they teach the grown-ups a lesson. Performances will take place at The Spotlight Playhouse in Berea, KY on May 26, 27, 28, June 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, and 11, with varying showtimes.

Tickets are available for purchase at https://thespotlightplayhouse.com, by calling 859-756-0011, or at the door. In keeping with The Spotlight Playhouse’s mission to bring the performing arts to everyone, Friday evening performances will be “Pay What You Can.” This initiative allows patrons to determine their own ticket price, whether it’s spare change for a night at the theater or a generous donation to support the playhouse’s mission.

Don’t miss this enchanting tale of resilience and imagination at The Spotlight Playhouse – secure your tickets today!

About The Spotlight Playhouse: The Spotlight Playhouse is dedicated to providing high-quality theatrical experiences for audiences of all ages. Our mission is to make the performing arts accessible to everyone, fostering creativity, collaboration, and community engagement. For more information, visit https://thespotlightplayhouse.com.

As life begins to return to normal, there’s no better time to step out of the house and immerse yourself in the world of live theater. The Spotlight Playhouse invites you to join them for an unforgettable night filled with laughter and mystery with their production of Pat Cook’s “Dead Giveaway.” With talented performers, a captivating plot, and an inclusive pricing structure, this show offers the perfect opportunity to either experience theater for the first time or to reignite your love for the performing arts.

“Dead Giveaway” is a comedy chiller that follows the story of Angie Bowles, an undercover policewoman investigating the strange lives and secrets of five eccentric spinsters living together. The play is filled with twists and turns, keeping the audience guessing until the very end. Directed by Chad Hembree and featuring a cast of seasoned Spotlight veterans, along with newcomer Kristi Miller, “Dead Giveaway” promises an entertaining and engaging evening for all who attend.

The Spotlight Playhouse is committed to making theater accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why they are offering “Pay What You Can” performances on Fridays, allowing patrons to choose the price they can afford. This initiative ensures that everyone has the opportunity to experience the magic of live theater and enjoy a night out with friends, family, or that special someone.

So why not break free from the routine and indulge in the captivating world of theater? Whether it’s your first time attending a show or you’re a seasoned theatergoer, “Dead Giveaway” offers the perfect mix of comedy, suspense, and intrigue that will keep you entertained from start to finish.

“Dead Giveaway” will run at The Spotlight Playhouse, located at 214 Richmond Road, Berea, KY, with performances scheduled for May 12, 13, 19, and 20 at 8 pm, and on May 21 at 2 pm, 2023. Standard ticket prices are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, and $8 for students. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the box office online at https://thespotlightplayhouse.com or call 859-756-0011.

Don’t miss this opportunity to step back into the world of live theater and enjoy a memorable night at The Spotlight Playhouse with “Dead Giveaway.” Book your tickets now and rediscover the magic of theater!

This summer, Spotlight Acting School, located at 214 Richmond Road in Berea, KY (Inside the Spotlight Playhouse), is providing a fantastic opportunity for young actors to get involved and hone their skills with auditions for “The Secret Case of Sherlock Holmes,” a clever mystery by Craig Sodaro. Open to students aged 14-18, the auditions are set to take place on May 13th at 1:30 pm.

The play promises to be an engaging and enjoyable experience for all involved, with humorous twists and turns as Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson embark on their first case. The summer rehearsal schedule is designed to accommodate vacations and camps, ensuring a flexible and stress-free experience for students.

With no prior acting experience required and financial assistance available, this production offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for young actors to explore their passion for theater. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to spend the summer immersed in the captivating world of “The Secret Case of Sherlock Holmes” at Spotlight Acting School.

As a well-regarded institution, Spotlight Acting School is dedicated to nurturing and developing young talent in the community. By participating in “The Secret Case of Sherlock Holmes,” students will not only have the chance to build their acting skills but also create lasting friendships and memories with their fellow cast members.

Throughout the rehearsal process, students will be guided by experienced directors Chad Hembree and Jazzlyn Threlkeld, who will help bring out the best in each actor. This fun and challenging production offers the perfect opportunity for young performers to learn about character development, stage presence, and teamwork.

Moreover, this production will be an exciting adaptation of the classic Sherlock Holmes story, introducing young audiences and actors to the legendary detective and his trusted companion, Dr. Watson. With a modern twist and unique character interpretations, “The Secret Case of Sherlock Holmes” is sure to be a hit with both the cast and audiences alike.

Don’t miss out on this excellent chance for young actors to gain valuable theater experience, make new friends, and have a fantastic time this summer. To learn more about the auditions for “The Secret Case of Sherlock Holmes” and Spotlight Acting School, visit https://spotlightactingschool.com or contact Chad Hembree at chad@spotlightactingschool.com or 859-661-0600. Mark your calendars for May 13th at 1:30 pm and join Spotlight Acting School at 214 Richmond Road, Berea, KY (Inside the Spotlight Playhouse) for an unforgettable summer adventure.

The Spotlight Playhouse in Berea, KY presents the Sunday Musical Series, a unique opportunity for aspiring actors with limited time to participate in a musical production. The series derives its name from the primary rehearsal day – Sundays, typically during mid to late afternoons. Over a span of 8 to 10 Sundays, participants will rehearse and then perform over two weekends.

With a single large cast, the musical is performed five times, while two distinct casts will result in six performances, three for each group. The Sunday Musical Series is a proud offering from the Spotlight Playhouse’s community theater, organized by the Bluegrass Players.

The Sunday musicals are intergenerational, encouraging actors of all ages to participate. Although the series’ founder and director, Chad Hembree, initially had modest expectations for the performances due to the shortened rehearsal time, the first three productions have exceeded all expectations.

Located at 214 Richmond Rd, Berea, KY, the Spotlight Playhouse’s website can be found at thespotlightplayhouse.com. Chad Hembree can be contacted at 859-661-0600 or Chad@spotlightactingschool.com. Participation in the Sunday Musical Series is free, but actors are expected to contribute by selling tickets, assisting with costumes, and helping with set design.

Any revenue generated from ticket sales beyond the production costs, which are minimal, will be donated to the Spotlight Acting School to support its mission of never turning away students due to financial constraints.

In the past, the Sunday Musical Series has showcased remarkable performances of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, Let Your Hair Down Rapunzel, and OZ! The Musical. As the series continues to grow, the Spotlight Playhouse is considering an exciting lineup for the 2023/2024 season, which may include popular productions such as High School Musical, Big Bad the Musical, Cinderella, Shrek, and Surf’s Up.

However, it’s essential to note that the final selection has not yet been confirmed, and there are many other options under consideration. The primary factor influencing the choice of shows for the upcoming season will be the cost, as acquiring licenses for well-known productions, particularly from companies like Disney and Dreamworks, can be challenging for community theaters with limited funds.

In summary, the Sunday Musical Series at the Spotlight Playhouse in Berea, KY is an engaging and inclusive opportunity for actors of all ages and talent levels to participate in a musical production. With successful past performances and an exciting potential lineup, the series is sure to continue captivating audiences and providing valuable experiences for its participants.

The Spotlight Playhouse is set to captivate audiences with Pat Cook’s comedy chiller “Dead Giveaway,” the last adult show of the season before wrapping up with two Spotlight Acting School productions, “Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical JR.” and “Press Start.” This engaging play, filled with suspense and laughter, promises to keep the audience on the edge of their seats until the final curtain. With an all-star cast of seasoned Spotlight veterans, the same talented author and director behind the highly successful “You Can’t Beat the House,” and a plot filled with twists and turns, “Dead Giveaway” is a must-see show for theater enthusiasts and casual patrons alike.

Directed by Chad Hembree, “Dead Giveaway” tells the story of Angie Bowles, an undercover policewoman posing as a domestic engineer. Hired by Dr. Hugh Bernard, she is tasked with investigating the strange lives and hidden secrets of five eccentric spinsters living under one roof. Each woman harbors her own peculiar personality, from a former actress reenacting death scenes to a senior citizen Hell’s Angel. As the plot unravels, the audience is left guessing what dark secrets these women are hiding and what keeps them together.

Pat Cook, the acclaimed playwright behind “Dead Giveaway,” is known for creating engaging stories filled with humor and suspense. His previous hit, “You Can’t Beat the House,” also directed by Chad Hembree, was a roaring success at The Spotlight Playhouse. Given the collaboration between Cook and Hembree on this production, audience members can expect another unforgettable experience.

The talented cast of “Dead Giveaway” includes Letha Hembree, Angel King, Trudy Tait, Paula Davis, Brad Powell, Alyssa Bustle, and newcomer Kristi Miller. These actors bring their unique flair and energy to their roles, creating a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere that will captivate theatergoers.

“Don’t miss the opportunity to see our last adult show of the season,” says Chad Hembree, Director of The Spotlight Playhouse. “The cast, combined with Pat Cook’s masterful storytelling and our dedication to bringing high-quality productions to the stage, makes ‘Dead Giveaway’ a perfect night out for friends, family, and dates alike.”

“Dead Giveaway” will run at The Spotlight Playhouse, located at 214 Richmond Road, Berea, KY, with performances scheduled for May 12, 13, 19, and 20 at 8 pm, and on May 21 at 2 pm, 2023. Tickets are priced at $13 for adults, $11 for seniors, and $9 for students. The theater is also offering “Pay What You Can” performances on Fridays, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy this thrilling production.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the box office online at https://thespotlightplayhouse.com or call 859-756-0011. Don’t miss your chance to experience the mystery, intrigue, and laughter of “Dead Giveaway” – a fitting finale to The Spotlight Playhouse’s adult show lineup this season.

Participating in a theater production is not only entertaining and enjoyable but can also offer immense educational value for children. This summer, “Junie B. Jones The Musical JR” at Spotlight Acting School presents a unique opportunity for kids aged 4-11 to develop essential life skills while having a great time on stage.

1. Building Confidence and Self-Esteem Being part of a theater production like “Junie B. Jones The Musical JR” provides children with the chance to express themselves creatively and step out of their comfort zones. This experience can significantly boost their self-esteem and confidence, as they learn to tackle challenges head-on and work towards a common goal with their peers.
2. Developing Communication and Social Skills Acting in a musical requires strong communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal. Children will learn to convey emotions, ideas, and stories effectively through their words, facial expressions, and body language. Additionally, collaborating with fellow actors, directors, and stage crew helps children develop valuable social skills and fosters a sense of camaraderie.
3. Enhancing Reading and Language Skills “Junie B. Jones The Musical JR” is based on a beloved series of books, making it an excellent opportunity for young actors to improve their reading and language skills. As they engage with the script and bring the story to life, children will expand their vocabulary, develop a better understanding of sentence structure, and improve their overall comprehension abilities.
4. Encouraging Creative Problem Solving Theater productions often require actors to think on their feet and adapt to unexpected situations. By participating in “Junie B. Jones The Musical JR,” children will learn to approach challenges with creativity and innovation, developing essential problem-solving skills that will benefit them in various aspects of life.
5. Fostering Empathy and Emotional Intelligence Acting allows children to step into the shoes of different characters and experience their emotions, struggles, and triumphs. This process can foster empathy and emotional intelligence, as young actors learn to understand and appreciate diverse perspectives.
6. Cultivating Discipline and Time Management Being part of a theater production demands commitment, punctuality, and focus. Children participating in “Junie B. Jones The Musical JR” will learn to balance their schoolwork, rehearsals, and personal life, cultivating essential time management and discipline skills.

By joining “Junie B. Jones The Musical JR” at Spotlight Acting School, children can unlock a wide range of educational benefits while enjoying a fulfilling theatrical experience. With the school’s commitment to inclusivity and affordable tuition, every child has the chance to experience the magic of theater and grow both as a performer and an individual. Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity – sign your child up for auditions today!

Event: “Junie B. Jones The Musical JR.” auditions
Date: May 6, 2023
Time: 9:00 am
Location: The Spotlight Playhouse, 214 Richmond Rd., Berea, KY
Age range: 4-11 years old (age waivers may be granted for older students)
Website: spotlightactingschool.com

Looking for a perfect day trip destination that has a little something for everyone? Look no further than Berea, Kentucky! From stunning natural beauty to a thriving arts scene and delicious food options, Berea has it all.

Start your day off right with breakfast at Native Bagel Company. This cozy little spot offers a variety of freshly baked bagels and cream cheese spreads, as well as coffee and other breakfast items. Grab a bagel and a cup of coffee to-go, and head out to your next stop – the Pinnacles.

The Pinnacles are a series of stunning rock formations that rise up from the surrounding forest. This natural attraction is located in the Berea College Forest and offers a variety of hiking trails for visitors to explore. The Indian Fort Lookout Trail is the most popular trail and takes hikers to a lookout point that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Pack a lunch to enjoy at the top of the mountain with spectacular views!

After your hike, head back into town for some shopping and browsing artist studios. Berea is known for its thriving arts scene, with many local artisans and craftspeople selling their wares in shops and galleries around town. The Kentucky Artisan Center is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience the best of Kentucky’s arts and crafts.

When it’s time for dinner, you can’t go wrong with Apollo Pizza or Papalenos. Both restaurants offer a variety of delicious Italian-inspired dishes, including pizza, pasta, salads, and sandwiches.

Finally, finish your day with some entertainment at the Spotlight Playhouse. This local theater offers a variety of productions throughout the year, ranging from children’s theater to adult productions. Take in a show and enjoy the arts scene that makes Berea so special.

In conclusion, a day trip to Berea offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, arts and crafts, and delicious food options. Whether you’re looking to hike the Pinnacles, shop for handmade crafts, or enjoy a night at the theater, Berea has something for everyone.

Berea, KY – Get ready for an exciting event as the Break-A-Leg 5K Run & Walk takes place on Sunday, May 7, 2023, at Berea City Park. The event begins at 8:30 am, with packet pickup starting at 7:00 am.

This fun-filled race will lead participants through a scenic route in the picturesque Berea Community Park and along the paved Berea City Trail. The event aims to promote a healthy lifestyle, community engagement, and support for the performing arts.

Participants can choose from a 5K run/walk, a 1-mile walk, or a virtual option to join in the excitement. In addition to the race, the event features a costume contest, where participants are encouraged to dress up as their favorite actor or actress, with fantastic prizes up for grabs.

Race registrants will receive a commemorative race T-shirt (while supplies last) and have access to free race photos. Awards will be presented to the top finishers, and there will be a special prize for the largest social team.

The Break-A-Leg 5K Run & Walk promises a day filled with music, food, fun, and fellowship, bringing together the community in support of the performing arts. All ages and skill levels are welcome, making it an inclusive event for families, friends, and neighbors.

To register for the Break-A-Leg 5K Run & Walk, please visit https://runsignup.com/Race/KY/Berea/BreakALeg5KBerea. For more information on the opportunities provided by Spotlight Acting School, please visit their website or social media channels.

About Spotlight Acting School:

Spotlight Acting School is a renowned institution dedicated to cultivating talent and fostering a love for the performing arts in the community. With a focus on providing a supportive and enriching environment, the school offers a variety of opportunities, helping students develop their skills and confidence on stage.

Media Contact:

Chad Hembree Executive Director
Spotlight Acting School
Phone: 859-661-0600
Email: chad@spotlightactingschool.com
Website: https://spotlightactingschool.com

BEREA, KY – The Spotlight Acting School is proud to present their rendition of William Shakespeare’s classic tragedy, Romeo and Juliet. This highly anticipated production features students aged 14-18, along with guest performers, showcasing their incredible acting talent.

Audiences are invited to attend performances on Friday, May 5 at 7:00 pm, Saturday, May 6 at 7:00 pm, and Sunday, May 7 at 2:00 pm at the Spotlight Playhouse in Berea, KY. In an effort to make the performing arts accessible to everyone, the Friday night performance offers a “Pay What You Can” option, encouraging patrons to contribute any amount for their ticket, whether it be spare change or a generous donation.

This timeless tale of star-crossed lovers, set in the city of Verona, Italy, resonates with audiences across generations. The Spotlight Acting School’s production promises to deliver a captivating performance that showcases the passion, talent, and dedication of its young actors.

Don’t miss this opportunity to witness an unforgettable performance of Romeo and Juliet. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Spotlight Playhouse website at https://thespotlightplayhouse.com or contact the box office.

As summer approaches, parents are often on the lookout for exciting and educational activities for their kids. This year, Spotlight Acting School’s production of “Junie B. Jones The Musical JR” offers a fantastic opportunity for children aged 4-11 to learn valuable life skills while having a blast on stage.

Celebrating its 20th season, Spotlight Acting School has helped hundreds of young actors hone their craft, build self-confidence, and make lasting friendships. Under the guidance of Executive Director Chad Hembree, the school has developed a reputation for being a nurturing and welcoming environment where every child is treated like a star.

One of the key factors that set Spotlight Acting School apart is its commitment to affordable tuition. With a standard base tuition starting at just $85 per month, the school aims to make theater education accessible to all families. Recognizing that not everyone may find this amount affordable, Spotlight also offers financial assistance to those in need, ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to participate and shine.

In line with this inclusive ethos, the school guarantees that every child who auditions for “Junie B. Jones The Musical JR” will be cast in the show. This approach not only helps to build each student’s self-esteem but also fosters a strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork among the young actors.

Joining Spotlight Acting School also means becoming part of a vibrant and supportive community. The “Spotlight family” is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, where lifelong friendships are often formed. This nurturing environment encourages personal growth, collaboration, and creativity.

The school is also committed to involving parents and community members in their productions. Volunteers are always welcome to lend a hand, whether it’s helping with costumes, sets, or promotions. This collaborative spirit brings the community together, making the theater experience even more rewarding for everyone involved.

In conclusion, “Junie B. Jones The Musical JR” offers an incredible opportunity for kids to join Spotlight Acting School this summer. Not only will they have the chance to showcase their talents on stage, but they will also learn essential life skills, make new friends, and become part of a caring and supportive community. Don’t let your child miss out on this fantastic experience – sign them up for auditions on May 6th at 9:00 am and let their journey with Spotlight Acting School begin.

Event: “Junie B. Jones The Musical JR.” auditions
Date: May 6, 2023
Time: 9:00 am
Location: The Spotlight Playhouse, 214 Richmond Rd., Berea, KY
Age range: 4-11 years old (age waivers may be granted for older students)
Website: spotlightactingschool.com