Arts for All

SPAA’s equity in performing arts initiative

Unlock Your Potential with SPAA

Everyone in the community deserves the chance to become a member of the premier arts organization in Placer County. We invite you to get involved in one or more of the opportunities the not-for-profit branch of McLaughlin Studios has to offer.

  • Get on the stage as an actor or dancer

  • Work behind the scenes as an extern or volunteer

  • Play in the community orchestra

Becoming a member, performer or volunteer helps to support all programs, inspires our youth and brings beautiful music an the arts to the local community.

Ignite & Inspire

SPAA Performing Arts Scholarship Program

SPAA offers need-based scholarships to help families access McLaughlin Studios, Theatre, Dance, and Orchestra programs. Our goal is to ensure every child has the opportunity to participate, regardless of financial circumstances. Scholarships are awarded as funding allows.

Work Scholarships allow students to earn tuition assistance by volunteering with our organization.

  • Available as full or partial tuition coverage

  • Participants volunteer 1 hour for every $16.90 awarded

  • Volunteer hours may be completed by the student or an immediate family member

  • All hours must be completed by the end of the program

  • A one-page reflection letter is required at the conclusion of the program

  • Costume costs are not included (separate Costume Scholarships are available)

Non-Work Scholarships are available for students with significant financial need or special circumstances.

  • Available as full or partial tuition coverage

  • No volunteer hours required

  • May require verification of financial need

  • A one-page reflection letter is required at the end of the program

  • Costume costs are not included (separate Costume Scholarships are available)

*Failure to complete volunteer hours or submit the required report will result in ineligibility for future scholarships

*Deadlines: February 1st, May 1st, August 1st

SPAA Externship Program (Age 14-24)

What is an Externship Program?
An Externship Program is a professional development experience that connects the learning environment to the working environment of theatre, music, and dance. Participants gain hands-on experience in a professional setting to learn current industry trends, skills, and opportunities. Externships can range from short job shadowing experiences to longer, project-based placements lasting a semester or summer. These experiences often have a transformative impact on future directors, designers, and their students.

Purpose
The purpose of an Externship Program is to provide direct experience in designing, producing, and directing community and youth productions. Assistants strengthen their teaching practices by learning industry-standard methods, workplace skills, and leadership strategies, helping them better connect theory to practice and enhance student learning.

Benefits
Externships give participants real-world insight that helps them design meaningful production activities and learning opportunities. By connecting curriculum to professional practice, they gain the ability to clearly demonstrate the value and relevance of theatre education to their students.

Engagement & Synergy


Our members make an impact and help keep the theatre going. Membership gives you a key to discover and experience new musicals each season. Enjoy benefits and access while supporting our educational and artistic program. Membership levels up to $1499 are fully tax-deductible.

Membership

Make a difference where it matters most

Membership Benefits*

  • VIP line for the shows

  • Members only performances and events

  • Early access to the tickets before public sales

  • McLaughlin Studio Bumper Sticker

  • Concession Coupons

  • Recognition in playbills

  • Season Ticket Discounts

  • Lobby Plaque

How do I become a member?

  • Visit our membership page from “Lean More”

  • Call us at 916-652-6377

  • Email us: mclaughlintheatrecompany@gmail.com

  • On-site at the Box Office

*Some are eligible only for a specific donation amount.

Volunteers (Age 16+)

Make a difference where it matters most
Join us as a volunteer and help create meaningful experiences that strengthen our community. Your time, skills, and passion can leave a lasting impact.

Help make performances unforgettable! Production volunteers support shows by organizing costumes and props, assisting performers backstage, and helping the stage team keep everything running smoothly. It's a front-row seat to the excitement of live theatre.

Donation

Donation

We appreciate the support of devoted performing art patrons like you, who make the energy, creativity, and diversity of Sierra Performing Arts Association thrive. With your help, we will continue to grow and share our passion for dance with the broadest audience possible.

When you choose to give, you become part of something bigger

—something powerful.

Your support fuels progress and brings hope where it's needed most.

Where will your funds go?

  • AREA OF GREATEST NEED

  • NEW PRODUCTIONS

  • EDUCATION & COMMUNITY

  • SCHOOL AND SCHOLARSHIPS

  • THE THEATRE COMPANY

  • THE DANCE COMPANY

  • THE ORCHESTRA

Community theatre isn’t just a stage,

it’s the heartbeat of local storytelling