BEREA, Ky. — A longtime Berea theater program is expanding to welcome older students and adults to the stage.
Spotlight Acting School, part of The Spotlight Playhouse, has announced a new Performance Workshop open to participants ages 14 through adult. The program will combine weekly acting instruction with rehearsals for a full production.
For more than 20 years, the school has focused on students ages 4–18, with an emphasis on access and participation. Leaders say the new workshop responds to growing interest from older teens, former students, and adults who want to explore acting in a supportive setting.
“We’ve seen a need for something beyond our traditional model,” said Executive Director Dr. Chad Hembree. “This gives people a place to learn, perform, and be part of a creative community—no matter their experience level.”
🗓️ Workshop Details and Schedule
- Enrollment opens: April 1 at 7:30 p.m.
- Workshop begins: April 15
- Meets: Wednesdays, 7:30 to 9:00 p.m.
- Length: 16 sessions
- No sessions: July 15 or July 22
Participants will build acting skills through structured workshops before moving into rehearsals for a staged production.
🎬 First Production: Puffs
The first show will be Puffs: Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic, a fast-paced comedic play that emphasizes ensemble work and character development.
- Performance dates: August 14–16 and August 21–23
Organizers say the program is open to a wide range of participants, from experienced local performers to those stepping onto a stage for the very first time. While the format is new, the core mission remains the same: build confidence, nurture creativity, and make theater accessible to the Berea community.
More information, including registration details, is expected to be shared through the Spotlight Acting School’s website and social media channels in the coming weeks.
👤 About the Executive Director
Dr. Chad Hembree has served as Executive Director of Spotlight Acting School, The Spotlight Playhouse, and Spotlight Performing Arts since 2013. Affectionately known as “Mr. Chad,” he holds degrees and certifications in music, theater, religion, and technology.
The performing arts have long been his passion, and owning and operating a theater has been a lifelong goal realized. In addition to his leadership role, Hembree is an accomplished performer with numerous honors and awards. He draws on his broad experience to guide students and staff with both creativity and care, and notes that he is especially excited to return to the classroom to lead this new Performance Workshop.
📅 Upcoming Events in Berea & Beyond
Theater & Performance at The Spotlight Playhouse
(Tickets and info for all shows: thespotlightplayhouse.com)
- Murder on the 518 (The Bluegrass Players) — March 20–29
- Disney’s Frozen JR. (Teen Production, Ages 14–18) — March 20–29
- “Finally” A Broadway Revue (The Spotlight Players) — April 3–12
- The Booking Committee (The Bluegrass Players) — April 17–25
- Disney’s Finding Nemo KIDS (Ages 4–11) — April 24–26
Music & Concerts
- Black Music Ensemble Spring Concert (Berea College) — Fri., March 20 at 7:00 p.m.
- A Night of Music: Ramona & the Holy Smokes and More (Rebel Rebel Studio & Lounge) — Sat., March 21 at 7:30 p.m.
- Trampled by Turtles (EKU Center for the Arts) — Sat., March 28 at 7:30 p.m.
Community, Arts & Outdoors
- Jammin’ on the Porch (Russel Acton Folk Center) — Thurs., March 19 at 7:00 p.m.
- Planetarium Show: Magic Globe (Berea College MAC Building) — Fri., March 20 at 7:00 p.m.
- Forest Meditations (Forestry Outreach Center) — Sat., March 21 at 10:00 a.m.
- Old Town Chocolate Hop (Old Town Artisan Village) — Sat., March 21 at 11:00 a.m.
- Very Hungry Caterpillar Day Celebration (Forestry Outreach Center) — Sun., March 22 at 1:00 p.m.
- Photography Workshop with John Snell (Berea Arts Council) — Sat., March 28 at 10:00 a.m.
- Easter Eggstravaganza (Lake Reba Park Softball Fields, Richmond) — Sat., April 4 at 11:00 a.m.
- Red Oaks Forest School Art Club (Forestry Outreach Center) — Sat., April 11 at 10:00 a.m.
- Mushroom Inoculation Workshop with ASPI (Forestry Outreach Center) — Sat., April 25