SPOTLiGHT PLAYERS
Where Kids Play!
Whether your child is a beginner or a triple-threat in the making, our theatre program offers opportunities that cultivate and inspire confidence on stage and in life! Your child will grow and have a blast as we harness their energy, explore hidden talents and find new ones... all while making new friends. There is something for every child—no experience needed, just bring your imagination!
Paulette Gilbert, Director of Spotlight Players
This winter, let your kids
catch the theatre bug 🎭 🪲…
warning, it’s contagious!
AUDITIONS
Casting ages 7-15
PEACH BOY and the MOON PRINCESS
The Tale of Momotarō and Princess Kaguya
One Act Play
Sunday February 8th 1-4pm*
Invited callbacks are Friday February 13th 4:30-7:30pm
A magical journey unfolds through two beloved Japanese folktales. A giant peach delivers Momotarō, a brave boy who, with loyal animal friends, defeats fearsome ogres and restores peace to his village. In a glowing bamboo stalk, Kaguya-hime, the Moon Princess, is discovered and raised on Earth, only to one day return to her home on the Moon, leaving behind a bittersweet farewell.
Together, these timeless tales celebrate courage, compassion, friendship, and the beauty of letting go, creating an enchanting theatrical experience for the entire family.
Directed by Paulette Gilbert
AUDITIONS ARE HELD AT
THE SIERRA THEATRE COMPANY REHEARSAL SPACE!
828 W Main ST Grass Valley, Peace Lutheran Church
*AUDITION TIMES (by age)
7-8 yrs: 1:00-3:00 May be released as early as 2:00pm
9-15 yrs: 2:00-4:00 May be released as early as 3:15pm
11-15yrs. Jr. Stage Management interests 2:00-3:00
CALLBACKS FEB 13th
All ages 4:30-7:30pm
A callback does not guarantee a role in production. Likewise, not being called back does not mean the child has not been cast. Callback email is sent 1-2 days after initial auditions.
AUDITION FAQ
Please arrive early to complete paperwork, have picture taken & receive audition number.
Wear proper clothing & shoes for movement. No boots, flip flops or exposed toes.
There is no cost to attend auditions.
CAST OF CHARACTERS
14-18 participants — some actors may have 2 roles.
Narrators - village elders who share the two tales
Momotarō - boy hero who came to the world in a giant peach
Old Woman & Old Man - couple who adopted Momotarō
Dog, Monkey & Pheasant - loyal animal friends of Momotarō
Oni - demons that stole the wealth of the village
Princess Kaguya - mysterious moon princess who was found in the bamboo
Woodcutter & Wife - couple who found and adopted Princess Kaguya
Villagers - people from the village
Moon Spirits - Princess Kaguya’s family
IMPORTANT DATES
Production Mandatory Dates
Please do not audition if unavailable for below dates
Parent & Cast Meeting / Cast Picture / Reading of Script: Sun. February 22 (1:30-4:30) @ STC Studio
Tech &Dress Rehearsals: April 25 (9-1pm) / April 27 & 28 (4-9) @ Nevada Theatre
5 Performances - April 30 @ 7pm; May 1 @10am*; May 2 @2pm; May 8 @10am*; May 9 @2pm @Nevada Theatre
*Morning School Matinee
Rehearsal Dates & Times
SUNDAYS 1PM - 4:30PM March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 & April 19
MONDAY 5PM - 7:45PM Feb. 23 & March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 & April 13, 20
THURSDAYS & FRIDAYS 4:30PM - 7:30PM Feb. 27 & March 6, 12, 19 or 20, 26 or 27 & April 2, 17, 24
• Calls are based on roles/scenes that will be rehearsed.
• Child may not be called to every rehearsal.
• All rehearsal dates/times should be saved for availability.
• Calls are emailed 2-3 days prior to each new week.
• Audition form asks for rehearsal conflicts.
Scenes from Trio! - 2025 Spotlight Players’ mainstage show - co-produced with Sierra Stages
AUDITION FAQs
Where is the audition?
At the Sierra Theatre Company Rehearsal Studio:
828 W. Main St. GV / Peace Lutheran Church
How old must a child be to audition?
Child must be 7-15yrs. on audition day.
How long will the audition last?
7-8yrs. begin at 1pm & will be released 1-2 hrs. into the audition. 9-15yrs. begin at 2pm. All auditions completed by 4pm.
Will my child automatically be given a role?
No, this is a true audition experience with limited roles. Additional characters may be added to the existing script, Only if Paulette feels experience will remain fun, safe and time-worthy.
How does a child prepare for the auditions?
Just come ready to be brave, imaginative and to have fun with others who also enjoy theatre!
Will the audition be in front of others?
Yes, these are group auditions. Child may be asked to recite a line from script, sing, dance and/or explore movement with others.
What is Jr. Crew?
Those (11-15yrs.) interested in stage management should participate in the first hour of older auditions. Paulette will observe child’s ability to take directions & work with others. If interested in acting and stage management, child can participate for both during audition process.
Do I need a picture or resume?
No. Child’s photo will be taken for Paulette’s use only. Audition form asks for any performance experiences. No prior theatrical experience is required.
May guardians watch auditions?
No, however an adult must accompany child before and after audition. There may be a place to wait; limited due to space.
What if my child is unable to attend the audition date?
There are no individual auditions. You may be able to attend invited callbacks. However, this is dependent on initial audition turn-outs and Paulette’s discretion.
What is a callback?
It is a second audition giving Paulette an opportunity to see & hear different combinations of actors.. Not every child will be invited to callbacks. A callback email is sent 1-2 days after initial auditions.
How will I know if my child is cast?
Once all casting decisions are completed, an email will be sent to addresses provided on audition form.
Are costumes provided?
Yes, however you may be asked to provide shoes or an accessory, based on design needs. Discussed at Parent/Company meeting.
What is the cost to participate?
A $225 fee helps cover the cost of scripts, production royalty fees, director & designer fees, publicity, along with set & costume supplies.
Cash/Check Payments: Email info@sierratheatrecompany.org
Fee is non-refundable.
Partial scholarships may be available upon request.
*Siblings discount available
Are scholarships available?
Sierra Theatre Company wants everyone to have the chance to create theatre magic!
We offer limited partial scholarships at our discretion.
To apply, please email info@sierratheatrecommpany.org with a short note describing why a scholarship is needed.
Deadlines for scholarship consideration will be posted soon
If you have any questions, please e-mail Paulette & STC
Is there any fineprint?
Yes. While we don’t anticipate any issues, Sierra Theatre Company and Paulette Gilbert reserve the right to deny or cancel participation if medical or behavioral concerns arise before or during production.
SPOTLiGHT PLAYERS
THEATRE CLASSES
NOW IN SESSION!
Dramatic Adventures $225
4-6 & 7-9 yrs (8 classes)
Instructor Paulette Gilbert
Theatre paired with children’s books inspire our theatrical adventures! Imaginations and confidence will grow as we make-believe and explore character through acting exercises, theatre games, music, movement and more.
• 8 Classes Tuesdays / Jan 13, 20, 27 / Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24 / March 3
• 4-6yrs. - 3:15-4:15pm (Must be 4yrs. by Dec. 13)
• 7-9yrs. - 4:30-5:30pm TWO SPOTS OPEN - please email info@sierratheatrecompany.org to join in on the fun!
• Sharing Showcase / March 3 / 5:15pm
Acting Fundamentals $275
10-15 yrs (10 classes)
Instructor Paulette Gilbert
Let’s cultivate the fundamental tools of Acting! Have fun focusing on the skills and techniques that make braver and more creative actors. Explore improvisation, acting exercises, theatre games, movement, character development, scene work and monologues.
• 10 Classes Tuesdays / Jan 13, 20, 27 / Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24 / March 3, 10, 17
• 10-15yrs.
• 5:15-6:30pm
• Sharing Showcase / March 17th / 6pm
Musical Theatre for Beginners $275
8-11 yrs (8 classes)
Instructor Christi Colombo
Introduce young performers to the fundamentals of musical theater through singing, acting, and simple choreography. Students learn basic vocal technique, explore character and storytelling, build confidence on stage, and practice working as an ensemble. Through games, age-appropriate musical theater songs, and short performance pieces, students develop creativity, teamwork, and stage presence in a fun, supportive environment.
• 8 Classes Thursdays / Jan 15, 22, 29 / Feb. 5,12,19,26 / March 5
• 8-11 yrs.
• 3:30-5pm
• Sharing Showcase / March 5th / 5pm
Behind the scenes - Spotlight Players’ production of Trio!
• Theatrical Adventures (7-9yrs.) AND Acting Fundamentals overlap 15min for large group explorations and fun!
• Held at Sierra Theatre Company Studio 828 W Main St, Grass Valley, CA
• Registration must close 2 days prior to the first day to properly prepare. Don’t delay!
• Wear appropriate clothing for movement. Closed-toe shoes; No flip flops, sandals or boots.
• Last day includes a 30min Friends and Family Sharing Showcase.
• $25 sibling discount.
• $50 discount for those 8-11yrs. wanting to pair an Acting class with Musical Theatre
• Maximum 12 participants per class.
• Partial scholarships may be available. Contact Sierra Theatre Company before registering at info@sierratheatrecompany.org
Sierra Theatre Company wants everyone to have the chance to create theatre magic! We offer limited partial scholarships at our discretion.
To apply, please email info@sierratheatrecompany.org with a short note describing why a scholarship is needed.
Deadlines for scholarship consideration are January 13th.
Scenes from our 2025 Fall Classes’ Sharing Showcase!
DIRECTOR & INSTRUCTOR Paulette Gilbert
Paulette Gilbert has worked with children for nearly 30 years as a teacher, actor, and director. She holds a BA in Early Childhood Education and a Master’s degree in Theatre from Louisiana Tech University. Her extensive experience with professional companies across the country includes a national tour with the Missoula Children’s Theatre. For the past 19 years she has taught and produced theatre for young people in Nevada County. Her directing credits include seven Children’s Theatre Ensemble productions for Center Stage Dance Studio, performed at the North Star House. As the founding primary director of CFTA's Main Stage Playmakers, she directed eight fun-filled productions. She is thrilled to be the director for Sierra Theatre Company's Spotlight Players and API2Days workshops. In addition to her work with children, Paulette is a professional costume designer and proprietor of SANDbags.
"Theater is so impactful because it encourages and enhances a child's capacity for self-expression and their sense of self-esteem. To make this possible, the most important thing about being in a play- is that it should be fun! Beyond it being fun, it is exciting and rewarding for kids to be part of creating something memorable while working closely with others. Every child has something special to add to a theatrical production, and it is deeply fulfilling to explore possibilities and find out what those special things will be. As a director, I love to work on plays with children of all ages and levels of experience, and am always searching for the rich rewards that theater can provide to children and their families." - Paulette Gilbert
Photos by Bob Free, Heidi Grass & Penny Collins
INSTRUCTOR
Christi Colombo
Christi Colombo brings nearly three decades of stage experience to young, budding performers. A former child actor herself—with credits in musical theater, tv, film, and voiceover—she understands firsthand the challenges young performers face. She is a trained vocal coach with a BFA in Musical Theater, has taught middle school show choir, and currently substitute teaches in the Nevada City School District. As a mother, Christi knows how to create a warm, encouraging environment that helps children shine while having fun!
Photos by Heidi Grass & David Wong
Stay tuned for next time!
“I LOVED it all!”
A Play in a Few Days includes all aspects of play production, including auditions, blocking, rehearsal techniques, character building, and working with costumes and props. Participants will put all these elements together to create and present a short play for family and friends at the end of the workshop! An amazingly fun and challenging process for all levels of theatrical experience.
This January we brought you two workshops for kids
ages 7-10 and 9-15
A Play in 2 Days Workshop
CURTAIN CLOSED
Ages 7-10
January 24 & 25
Sat & Sun 9:30-2pm
Performance - Sun 2pm (20min)
$200 each / $175 sibling
Participants receive T-shirt
14 slots available
FAQ & details below
A Play in 3 Days Workshop
CURTAIN CLOSED
Ages 9-15
January 9, 10 & 11
Fri 4-6:30pm; Sat & Sun 10:00-4pm
Performance - Sun 4pm (30min)
$225 each / $200 sibling
Participants receive T-shirt
16 slots available
Contact us for more info info@sierratheatrecompany.org
“It was thrilling and so much fun to make a play in just two days!”
“My daughter participated in A Play in 2 Days, and it was a fantastic introduction to theater. The workshop was fun and engaging, and my daughter loved working with Paulette! ”
“Paulette sees the magic of what every child brings to the weekend and makes sure everyone has a creative experience that fosters skills beyond theatre — it’s about each child growing both a sense of self and a sense of community.”
“Playing different characters was fun, and I made some new friends!”
“Our daughter went from theater curious to theater enthusiast, under Paulette’s incredible direction. Paulette is a creative force who crafts a transformative experience, for young actors; our child truly feels that she has a forever home, on the stage.”
Scenes from A Play in Three Days, January 2026
A PLAY iN A FEW DAYS FAQs
Where is the workshop?
At the Sierra Theatre Company Rehearsal Studio:
828 W. Main St. GV / Peace Lutheran Church
How should my child prepare?
Just come ready to be brave, imaginative, and have fun with other kids who enjoy theatre! No preparation is required.
What time should we arrive?
API2D
Saturday & Sunday check-in is 9:10-9:25am.
Workshop starts at 9:30am
API3D
Friday check-in is 3:40-3:55
Workshop starts at 4:00pm
Saturday & Sunday check-in is 9:40-9:55am
Workshop starts at 10:00am
What time is pickup?
API2D
Saturday pick-up is 2:00pm.
Sunday performance is at 2:00pm
API3D
Friday pick-up is 6:30pm
Saturday pick-up is 4:00pm.
Sunday performance is at 4:00pm
There are t-shirts?
Yes! Every child receives a t-shirt to commemorate the fun and success of our whirlwind weekend! Size request is on registration form.
Who provides my child's food & snacks?
You do. Child should bring a water bottle, a lunch, and a few healthy non-messy snacks each day. There will be snack and lunch breaks on Saturday and Sunday. API3D will have a snack break on Friday.
What should my child wear?
Clothing must be appropriate and easy to move in. No flip flops, boots or exposed toes. Rubber soles are the best for our carpeted floors.
On show day, your child’s clothing will serve as a costume base. Please no large words or images: colorful solids or patterns are best.
Are there opportunities for kids interested in the Stage Management aspects of Theatre?
Yes, a few spots are reserved for Jr. Crew kids! Those 10-15yrs. will assist during rehearsals, help with costumes or props AND have backstage duties during our play.
Can parents or guardians watch the workshop?
No, the workshop is closed to parents. However we’ll see you at the show!
May I contact my child during the day?
Children are not allowed to leave the studio once our day begins. Cellphone usage will be allowed during a snack or lunch break, ONLY if needed.
When is the performance!?
API2D performance is Sunday at 2:00pm
API3D performance is Sunday at 4:00pm
Stay after the show for a small reception 🎉
and distribution of cast t-shirts!
Who can come to the performance?
Any friends or family of the cast are invited! Come enjoy the hard work and talent of our young performers, no tickets needed.
What is the cost to participate?
API2D is $200 participation fee / $175 sibling*
API3D is $225 participation fee / $200 sibling*
Cash/Check Payments: Email info@sierratheatrecompany.org
Workshop fee is non-refundable.
Partial scholarships may be available upon request.
*If sibling will attend different workshop due to age, older child receives $25 discount.
Are scholarships available?
Sierra Theatre Company wants everyone to have the chance to create theatre magic!
We offer limited partial scholarships at our discretion.
To apply, please email info@sierratheatrecommpany.org with a short note describing why a scholarship is needed.
Deadlines for scholarship consideration are Dec. 26th & January 10th.
If you have any questions, please e-mail Paulette & STC
Is there any fineprint?
Yes. While we don’t anticipate any issues, Sierra Theatre Company and Paulette Gilbert reserve the right to deny or cancel enrollment if medical or behavioral concerns arise before or during the Workshop.
CURTAIN CLOSED
July 25th-27th
TRiO! - A Three-Ring Storybook Circus
〰️
TRiO! - A Three-Ring Storybook Circus 〰️
Join us for a fast-paced storytale mash-up circus like you’ve never seen before!
Three ringmasters (and some silly clowns) take you on a circus themed adventure. Prepare to be entertained and amazed by a trilogy of three storybook favorites: the Three Bears, the Three Pigs, and the Three Goats Gruff.
Below—scenes from Trio! our first Spotlight Players production!—photos by Heidi Grass
