Summer Stock | SummerStarz Touring Ensemble

SPARC Summer Stock and SummerStarz are tuition-based programs. Financial assistance is available. Contact the SPARC office for more information. Further questions about SPARC's Summer Stock and SummerStarz may be directed to Debra Clinton, Director of Production, at dclinton@sparconline.org or (804) 353-3393 ext. 229.

Ages 14-18
Each summer, SPARC produces a main stage musical featuring some of the Richmond region's finest teenage talent. Past performances have included "Ragtime" (2011), "Into the Woods" (2010), "Little Shop of Horrors" (2008), "West Side Story" (2007), and "Cats" (2006).

In 2012, we're kicking this program into an even higher gear by transforming it into SPARC Summer Stock, in which two productions will be staged, with students learning as both cast and crew! For more information on the structure of the program, please read the SPARC Summer Stock information flyer.

Actors have the unique opportunity not only to perform in one of two thrilling productions ("Chicago" and "Noises Off"), but to also learn how to work backstage, as well. Actors will participate in building the sets, costumes, props, plus learn about lights, sound, and other technical elements that go into making a hit Broadway show happen. Students may audition for both productions, or the one of their choice.

"Chicago" is a Tony-award winning musical with music by John Kander & Fred Ebb, and is currently the longest-running Broadway revival in American theater history. Featuring an incredible score that includes "All That Jazz," "Mr. Cellophane," and "When You're Good To Mama," "Chicago" is a spicy treat to heat up your summer.

"Noises Off" is a delightful and raucous comedy by playwright Michael Frayn, and tells the story of a hapless English acting troupe touring a production called "Noises On." In traditional farce style, there is much mistaken identity, slamming doors, crazy chaos, and hilarity that take place. This Tony-nominated play is sure to make you laugh until your sides hurt.

SPARC's performances of "Chicago" and "Noises Off" will run in rep in the newly renovated Sara Belle November Educational Theater at the SPARC Center, July 19-29, 2012. Rehearsals will begin Monday, June 18, 1:00-5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Auditions will be held Saturday, February 25, at Tuckahoe Presbyterian Church, and are open to all students, regardless of whether they have taken SPARC classes in the past. Auditions will be held at Tuckahoe Presbyterian Church, 7000 Park Avenue in Richmond's West End (please note: not at SPARC!). Auditions are on a first-come, first-served basis, with sign-ups beginning on-site at 1:30 p.m.

Students auditioning for "Chicago" should prepare 16-32 bars (no more) of a Broadway uptempo song, and bring sheet music in the correct key. An accompanist will be provided. Singing acapella will not be allowed. You may also bring an accompaniment CD with NO background vocals. A CD player will be provided. Actors auditioning for "Noises Off" are asked to prepare a short (45-60 seconds) comedic monologue from the play of their choice. If actors are auditioning for BOTH productions, please prepare both a short song (16-32 bars) AND a short comedic monologue.

Ages 10-15
Each summer, SPARC students tour the Richmond region as part of the SummerStarz performing ensemble, bringing a free, family-friendly performance to over 1,000 people in the community. SummerStarz is SPARC's premier touring ensemble, where actors prepare a one-hour Broadway musical and take it on tour around the metro Richmond area during the final week of July. Past touring shows have included "Bugsy Malone, Jr." (2011), "Willy Wonka, Jr." (2010), "Once on this Island, Jr. " (2009), "Suessical, Jr." (2008), "Godspell, Jr." (2007), and "Dear Edwina, Jr." (2006).

In 2012, SPARC SummerStarz ensemble will produce "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat." Andrew Lloyd Webber's mega-smash musical comes to life at SPARC for the third time (SPARC alum superstar Jason Mraz played the title role in the original production in 1992). Featuring an eclectic rock and roll score with funky arrangements, "Joseph" is a timeless show, perfect for the whole family.

SummerStarz will tour the Richmond region the week of July 23-27, 2012. Rehearsals will begin Monday, June 18, 8:30 a.m.-12:00 Noon, Monday through Friday.

The tour schedule (specific venues and dates/times) for "Joseph and Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" will be posted in the coming months. Please check back!

All performances are FREE and open to the public. If you have a large group (10 or more) we suggest you call the location to reserve your seats.

Auditions will be held Saturday, February 25, at Tuckahoe Presbyterian Church, and are open to all students, regardless of whether they have taken SPARC classes in the past. Auditions will be held at Tuckahoe Presbyterian Church, 7000 Park Avenue in Richmond's West End (please note: not at SPARC!). Auditions are on a first-come, first-served basis, with sign-ups beginning on-site at 1:30 p.m.

Actors auditioning for "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" should prepare 16-32 bars (no more) of a Broadway uptempo song, and bring sheet music in the correct key. An accompanist will be provided. Singing a capella will not be allowed. You may also bring an accompaniment CD with NO background vocals. A CD player will be provided.