Step Into the Spotlight

Theatre Academy Training & Certificates for Young Performers

Where confidence grows and creativity shines.

Step Into the Spotlight is the Hershey Area Playhouse’s premier theatre training program for young performers. Students build real skills through a mix of foundational classes and exciting electives, all leading to official Theatre Academy certificates.

With flexible 8-week sessions, experienced instructors, and age-appropriate instruction, students can explore acting, voice, movement, dancing, stage combat, directing, and more—at their own pace.

Whether your child is brand new to theatre or ready to advance their skills, this program helps them grow onstage and beyond.

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What is Step Into the Spotlight?

Our Spotlight Program is a structured, progressive training program for students of all experience levels. Through rotating 8-week class sessions, students build essential performance skills while exploring specialized areas of interest. Whether your child dreams of being onstage, working behind the scenes, or discovering their artistic voice, this program provides a supportive and inspiring place to grow.

Students may enroll in one course at a time or follow a certificate pathway for a deeper, more comprehensive theatre education.

Program Structure

Foundational Courses
These core classes build the essential tools every performer needs, including instruction in:

• Acting Techniques

• Voice & Speech for the Stage

• Movement for Actors

• Improvisation

• Scene Study

• Theatre Methods

• Behind the Scenes & Technical Theatre

Elective Courses
Electives allow students to explore their interests and personalize their training. Offerings may include these and more:

• Stage Combat

• Dance Styles

• Song Interpretation

• Script Writing & Analysis

• Stage Management

• Theatre History

• Directing

• The Basics of Shakespeare

Courses rotate throughout the year so students can build a well-rounded skill set over time.

Theatre Academy Certificates

Students who complete combinations of foundational and elective courses are eligible to earn official Theatre Academy Certificates—a meaningful way to recognize effort, growth, and accomplishment.

Rising Spotlight Certificate
Awarded after completing a designated group of foundational courses and electives
(Example: 4 foundational + 2 electives)

Center Stage Certificate
Awarded after completing the full foundational sequence and additional electives
(Example: 8 foundational + 4 electives)

Certificates are perfect for performance resumes, audition portfolios, scholarship applications, and college preparation.

Why Families Choose Step Into the Spotlight

• Real training, not just rehearsal – Students learn lasting technique and theatrecraft

• Flexible participation – Join for one class or follow a full certificate pathway

• Creative choice – Electives let students explore what excites them most

• Confidence through performance – Public speaking, collaboration, leadership, and self-expression

• Experienced teaching artists – Supportive instructors who challenge and encourage

Who Should Enroll?

Step Into the Spotlight is ideal for:

• New performers ready to explore theatre for the first time

• Students who love performing and want to strengthen their skills

• Teens preparing for high school productions, college theatre, or professional training

Classes are offered for multiple age ranges and skill levels, with age-appropriate instruction.