SPOTLIGHT,
SOUND &
STAGE
WHAT IS SPOTLIGHT, SOUND & STAGE?
Spotlight, Sound, and Stage is a free, community-led performance development series that uplifts emerging and underrepresented artists across Boston through mentorship, creative workshops, paid opportunities, and a celebratory public showcase that brings the community together. Spotlight, Sound and Stage brings light to artists through a community-first approach.
.jpg)
OUR GOALS
At the heart of Spotlight, Sound and Stage is a shared mission:
to reimagine community spaces across Boston as creative classrooms and performance hubs that center equity, artistry, and inclusion.
This initiative is built on 4 key pillars:
1. ARTIST DEVELOPMENT
Through our Spotlight Artist Accelerator, selected performers receive stipends, coaching, and professional development workshops led by teaching artists.
2. COMMUNITY ACTIVATION
Free, neighborhood-based programming brings open auditions, satellite workshops, and mentorship opportunities directly into Boston’s communities. Welcoming residents of all artistic backgrounds.
3. RESOURCE AWARENESS
With support from partners across the city, artists gain access to professional tools, technical guidance, and a supportive creative network.
4. REIMAGINING THE SPACE AT RIVERSIDE THEATRE WORKS
As a central partner in this activation, Riverside Theatre Works provides visual and technical support for workshops and showcases, along with access to professional-grade equipment such as microphones and in-ear monitor (IEM) sound systems which are essential for ensuring high-quality performances, even in outdoor or non-traditional spaces
Together, we’re building a pipeline of opportunity that celebrates Boston’s cultural richness while expanding access for those historically underrepresented in performance spaces.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Auditions: Free, neighborhood-based auditions in February 2026 (2/6, 2/7, 2/13, and 2/21)
> Audition Signs Ups Coming Soon
Spotlight Artist Accelerator: Workshops, mentorship, and stipends March-May 2026
Final Showcase: Professionally produced, free community celebration June 13th at Francis D. Martini Memorial Shell Park
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?
Artists from all backgrounds are encouraged to audition with work that speaks to their lived experience, cultural heritage, or creative vision.
Participants may audition in the following artistic categories:
● Music (vocal and instrumental, including solo and small group acts - groups of up to 4 permitted)
● Spoken word and poetry (original or published works)
● Dance (including contemporary, cultural, and street dance styles)
● Theater and monologue performance (original or published works approved by the program)
● Interdisciplinary performance (e.g., storytelling through movement and music, or
multimedia pieces combining sound, visuals, and text)
Works may include scenes original compositions, culturally rooted performance traditions, or excerpts from published plays or scripts (pending approval).
The emphasis is on authenticity, creative voice, and the ability to engage an audience, whether through solo performance or collaborative ensemble work.
THE BENEFITS OF PARTICIPATING IN SPOTLIGHT, SOUND AND STAGE
MEDIA
Participating artists will receive a professional headshot as well as documentation of their final performance (for use on social media, websites, reels, etc.)
MENTORSHIP & TRAINING
Participants will receive training in stage presence, branding, and performance skills as well as mentorship from professional teaching artists both during scheduled workshops and afterward.
NETWORKING
Participants will have countless opportunities to network with Boston's creative community.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Join us for a fun, community karaoke night kicking off Spotlight, Sound & Stage!
Sing your favorite songs, cheer on friends, and celebrate local arts in Hyde Park.
Open sign-ups mean you can jump in and sing night-of—no pressure!
This event is FREE but we require an RSVP and Purchase of your Concession Ticket (12$) for use at the on-site Lounge.
Free & open to the community. All ages welcome!
WHERE: Riverside Theatre Works | WHEN: Sunday November 16th, 4pm - 8pm
PARTNERS & SPONSORS
This program is supported in part by the Mayor’s Office
of Arts and Culture.