Arts for All
SPAA’s equity in performing arts initiative.
Unlock Your Potential with SPAA
Everyone in the community deserves the chance to shine on stage, volunteer in the arts, and 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 or work behind the scenes as an extern or volunteer.
Become a member and help to support the programs and youth in the community. Get into dance or theatre in a community production, or play in community orchestra and meet likeminded people and bring beautiful music to the local community.
❋ SPAA Performing Arts Scholarship Program
Unlock Your Potential with the SPAA Performing Arts Scholarship Program
Every young performer deserves the chance to shine on stage, regardless of financial circumstances. The Sierra Performing Arts Association Scholarship Program makes that possible by offering both Work and Non-Work Scholarships for McLaughlin Studios, McLaughlin Theatre Company, McLaughlin Dance Company, and McLaughlin Theatre Community Orchestra programs.
Work Scholarships allow students and their families to earn tuition through volunteer hours, while Non-Work Scholarships are available for those with limited resources or special circumstances. Whether you dream of acting, dancing, or making music, SPAA is committed to removing financial barriers so you can focus on what matters most—developing your talent and sharing it with the world. Applications are accepted seasonally, so don't wait to take the first step toward your performing arts journey.
Contact us today at 916-652-6377 or mclaughlinstudiosmusic@gmail.com to learn more.
❋ Collaborative Energy
Connection is a core part of the process. You’ll learn just as much from the group as from the content itself.
❋ Expert Facilitation
Led by experienced guides who know how to hold space, encourage participation, and keep things moving with purpose.
❋ A Supportive Space
Our events prioritize comfort, safety, and respect—so you can show up as you are and fully engage in the process.
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
SPAA Externship Program (Age 14-24)
What is an Externship Program?
An Externship Program is a professional development experience that connects the theatre/music and dance classroom to the working theatre environment. 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 how community and youth theatre/dance/music productions are designed, produced, and directed. 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 thew public sales
McLaughlin Studio Bumper Sticker
Concession Coupons
Recognition in playbills
Season Tickets
Lobby Plaque
How do I become a memeber?
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
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 are the donations allocated, and how do they help?
$125 = scripts and scores for 10 performers
$90 = one month child's scholarship for an Acting or Dance Class
$175 one month student scholarship for music or dance lesson
$270 = 15 community kids to see a show
$400 = a child to the MTC Summer Performing Production intensive
$385 = one child’s scholarship for a junior or production show
$1000 = stage lighting or sound during one production
$1500 = all the costumes for a junior or main production show
$6000 = a live pit orchestra to a main production show
$7500 = an after-school production workshop for at-risk kids
$10,000 = one sold-out house for a student school matinee performance
$15,000 = one Junior or Main Stage show
$25,000 = the artistic team for a full season of Junior or Main Stage shows