General FAQs
Does my child need previous experience in the performing arts to take part in SPARC’s programming?
Not at all! SPARC’s classes, camps, workshops, and audition-based programs are ideally suited for students with all levels of theatrical experience. Students with prior involvement will be challenged to expand their skills, and new students will find that SPARC is a fun, easygoing first exposure to the performing arts.
What performance opportunities are available to my student at SPARC?
All of SPARC’s classes and camps end in a final sharing performance, open to family and friends! Students in middle and high school are also eligible to audition for SPARC’s plays and musicals.
What’s the deadline to register for a class or camp at SPARC?
SPARC’s programs don’t actually have a registration deadline! In some circumstances, we are even happy to accept new students shortly after a program has started. However, please keep in mind that many of SPARC’s offerings do sell out. Once spots in those programs are gone, students will be added to a wait list, so try not to wait too long!
Are SPARC’s classes open to observation by family or friends?
SPARC classes are closed to observation. We’ve found that students are better able to foster new friendships, focus, and freely explore without guests and family members in the classroom.
What payment options are available at SPARC?
SPARC accepts payment via credit card or check. Payment plans and financial aid are available. Please note that there is a deadline to apply for scholarships. This deadline is usually about one month before the start of fall and winter classes and about two months from the start of summer camps.
SPARC offers automated payment plans for any program that costs $100 or more. Payment plan details are outlined in each eligible program’s description.
We can also accept cash or checks. Cash should be brought in person, and checks should be mailed to SPARC at 2106 N. Hamilton Street, Richmond, VA 23230
Where is SPARC located?
The SPARC office & theatre is located at 2106 North Hamilton Street Richmond, Virginia 23230.
Audition-Based Programing FAQs
What kind of audition-based programming does SPARC offer?
SPARC produces seven plays or musicals each year! Age ranges differ for shows depending on the content, but auditions are typically open to 6th through 12th graders.
SPARC also holds auditions in the spring for Touring Ensemble, comprised of 8th through 12th graders. These students musical theatre revue-style performances at many private and public events around Richmond throughout the course of the year!
Does my student need to be enrolled in one of SPARC’s training classes in order to audition for a show?
No, SPARC does not require students to be enrolled in any additional SPARC class (or have taken one in the past!) in order to be eligible to audition for a show. Students with all backgrounds and levels of experience in the performing arts are welcome to audition. We always love to see new faces!
What does SPARC require at auditions?
Though specific requirements may vary, students should plan to prepare 32 bars of a musical theatre song or a one-minute monologue. Exact details on how to prepare for auditions will be posted to the auditions page with each new round of auditions.
What does it cost to be involved in a production at SPARC?
SPARC does not have an audition fee. However, there is a cost associated with participating in a show after a student is cast, as the rehearsal process is an enriched educational experience. That fee varies by program, and it covers all costs. There is no additional cost or fee for costumes. Families are also welcome to apply for a scholarship or create a payment plan to help with the cost of participation in one of SPARC’s productions.
How are families involved in the production process at SPARC?
SPARC doesn’t require families to contribute to the production process for any of our shows! We hire professional technical artists and designers to create the magic that brings our shows to life. If family members would like to volunteer somehow, they’re welcome to serve as ushers at a performance of their choice.
Summer Camp FAQs
When does registration for SPARC summer camps open?
Registration for SPARC summer camps will open early January!
How do I register my child for SPARC summer camps?
Please register online by visiting sparc.coursestorm.com.
You’ll find that CourseStorm streamlines the registration process in many ways, especially through its shopping cart feature (sign up for multiple camps or enroll multiple students in one transaction!) and automated payment plan function.
What ages do SPARC summer camps serve?
SPARC camps serve students ages 4 – 18 in various programs throughout the summer. Students should be the minimum age listed by the first day of camp. Please check our website to see which programs might be the right fit for your student.
Where are SPARC camps located?
SPARC camps and classes are located all around the metro Richmond area. Some take place on campus here at SPARC (2106 N. Hamilton St. Richmond, VA 23230) while others take place at satellite locations in the Near and Far West End, Bon Air, and Midlothian/Chesterfield areas.
What are my payment options?
- Pay in full at the time of registration using a credit or debit card.
- Create a payment plan. With the implementation of CourseStorm, our new class enrollment software, you can elect to sign onto an automated payment plan. You’ll see the details of each payment plan listed along with camp descriptions. CourseStorm determines payment plan details based on the cost of the program and the amount of time between when you sign up and when the camp starts. Payment plans are set up to be paid in full by the first day of camp.
- Apply for scholarship. SPARC offers scholarships through an application-based process. You can learn more about that process and view the online application on this page.
What if the camp I want is full?
If the camp that you are interested in registering for is full, you’ll be able to add your name to a waiting list. If a spot opens, we will let you know as soon as possible!
What is the refund/ cancellation policy on camps?
- For cancellations made until 5PM on February 14, 2024, you will receive a full refund of the tuition paid, minus a $25 administrative fee and a 4% nonrefundable vendor processing fee.
- For cancellations made between 5:01PM on February 14, 2024 and until four weeks before the start of your chosen camp, you will receive a 50% refund, minus a 4% non-refundable vendor processing fee. In the case of partial payments totaling less than 50% of the cost of the camp, no refund will be given. (Specific cutoff dates for your chosen camp will be listed in your receipt upon enrolling.)
- For cancellations made with less than four weeks’ notice before the start of your chosen camp, no refund will be provided.
- No refunds or reimbursements will be offered for missed days of camp.
My student has allergies, how do I let you know?
Please make sure to note any allergies on your registration form. There is also a place on the registration form to share other important information about your camper. All SPARC camps are NUT-FREE.
My student has a learning disability or other disability. Would SPARC camp be a good fit for them?
SPARC is dedicated to serving every student in the Richmond community. We want to support our students as best we can, so if you are interested in a specific camp, please feel free to reach out to us to talk about which camps might be a good fit for them.
What if my student needs medication during the day?
SPARC is not authorized to administer medicine except in an emergency (i.e. Epi Pens, CPR, etc.). Should your child need medication throughout the day, and they are able to administer it themselves (i.e.insulin), then that is permitted. If a medication needs to be given that the camper cannot administer themselves, arrangements will need to be made for a parent or other trusted adult to come to camp and administer the medication.
Are meals provided at camp?
No, each student must bring nut-free meals and snacks to camp each day. Refer to your camp guide for more information about the meal breaks at each camp.
Does SPARC offer transportation?
SPARC is not able to provide transportation to and from camp. You’re welcome to coordinate carpool options with a friend or neighbor, or let SPARC know if you’d like help coordinating rides with other participants at camp.
Is an audition required for my student to attend camp?
No audition is required for students to participate in SPARC camps. During camp, the students will likely have an informal assessment of their skills to see where they might be most comfortable and successful in a final share, but no audition is required for participation in camp. All students will be given an opportunity to be featured in their final performance!
How early may I drop off my child for camp?
Drop-off begins 10 minutes before the start of the camp day, unless you have opted for Early Arrival (if provided at your camp’s location). If you are taking part in Early Arrival care, drop-off begins at the time listed, and no earlier.
What are Early Arrival and Extended Afternoon and what activities take place during them?
Early Arrival and Extended Afternoon are features to summer camps that SPARC offers to families who need flexibility for dropping off and picking up their students. The cost for each varies between camps, based on duration, and can be added at registration. This time is for students to get ready for the day or to unwind after a busy day of camp. Camp material is not taught or reviewed by instructors during this time since not all campers are present. During Early Arrival and Extend Afternoon, students may have snack, outdoor/playground time, some screen time, reading time, or time to relax. Small personal items from home are permitted for use during Early Arrival and Extended Afternoon.
Can I sign up for Early Arrival or extended Afternoon after I enroll or after the program has begun?
If the camp you are attending offers Early Arrival or Extended Afternoon, you may sign up after the program has begun, but the cost cannot be prorated. If you need to add these options, contact SPARC at [email protected].
What should I do if my student wants to be in a specific camp/ location with a friend?
Please make sure to prioritize coordinating with friends and family whom your student would like to be in camp with before registering. We are not able to guarantee any changes to location once registration has begun and camps fill to capacity.
Show & Ticket Sales FAQs
Where can I purchase tickets for SPARC productions?
Online: Click here to purchase tickets online
At the Box Office Window: 1 hour prior to performances
SPARC Office: 804-353-3393 x 234
Email Inquiries: [email protected]
What is the COVID Policy at SPARC productions?
Audience members will no longer be required to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test in order to see a show at SPARC. Masking is now optional for audiences, regardless of community spread.
What is the policy on late arrivals to SPARC productions?
Latecomers will be seated at the discretion of the House Manager in order to prevent a disruption of performance already in progress. The box office closes 30 minutes after the performance begins. No latecomers will be seated after that point.
Where are SPARC's production shows located?
SPARC shows are held at our facility at 2106 N. Hamilton St. Richmond, VA 23230.
How does SPARC check your tickets when you arrive for a show?
We accept printed tickets or tickets on a mobile device. If you forget your ticket, see the box office and someone will check you in via your name.
Do SPARC shows have any accessibility accommodations?
- Accessible Seating – Accessible Seating is available and can be reserved by patrons when picking their own seats on the ticket purchase page.
- Audio Descriptions – In partnership with Virginia Voice, SPARC offers audio descriptive performances and tactile tours. Please see our ticket site for details on those specific performances.
- American Sign Language – Please see our ticket site for details on ASL interpreted performances.
Are cameras or recording devices allowed during SPARC shows?
The use of any audio, visual or other recording devices is strictly prohibited during the performance. You are welcome and encouraged to take photos during the curtain call.
Is there open parking available at SPARC's facility?
SPARC has ample parking in our front and back parking lots. From time to time we ask that patrons park in a specific section of the lot. Please see your “Know Before You Go” email for specific details regarding parking for a particular show.
Have any other questions about us? Please reach out!
We are always accepting new students for upcoming classes, camps, and programs!
If you have any questions about SPARC or any of our offerings, please reach out to us by filling out our contact form on this page or by giving us a call at our office at (804) 353-3393.
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SPARC is supported, in part, by the Virginia Commission for the Arts, which receives support from the Virginia General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.
