About
About Spotlight Acting School
Welcome to Spotlight Acting School – Where Stars Are Born! 🌟
Our Story Founded in 2004 by Kathie JR Bettler, Spotlight Acting School has grown into a vibrant performing arts community under the leadership of Chad and Letha Hembree since 2013. Now in our 21st season, we’ve become one of Kentucky’s most dynamic theater education programs, producing over 100 student performances annually.
Our Mission We believe in nurturing creativity and building confidence through theater education. Our unique “learn through production” approach helps students develop:
- Self-confidence and public speaking skills
- Acting, singing, and dancing abilities
- Focus and memory skills
- Leadership capabilities
- Lifelong friendships and community connections
Our Facility Located at 214 Richmond Road in Berea, KY, The Spotlight Playhouse houses:
- Two professional theaters (149-seat Theatre and 106-seat Hall)
- Dance studio with wooden floor and mirrored wall
- 13,000 square feet of performance space
Our Commitment
- Every student who auditions is guaranteed a role
- No student is turned away due to financial constraints
- Base tuition: $105/month with sibling discounts available
- Financial assistance and volunteer opportunities available
- Over 200 performances annually across all programs
Student Success Our students consistently:
- Score higher on standardized tests
- Win national competitions and pageants
- Earn substantial college scholarships
- Progress to careers in performing arts
- Appear on national television shows including American Idol
Leadership Team
- Mr. Chad (Chad Hembree) – Executive Director
- Miss Hembree (Letha Hembree) – Music Director and CFO
- Supported by dedicated staff and over 30 volunteers
Professional Affiliations Proud member of:
Kentucky Theater Association (KTA)
The Berea Chamber of Commerce
The Berea Arts Council
American Association of Community Theatre (AACT)