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Broadway Comes to Sparta: Rising Stars Youth Theatre Announces Summer 2026 Intensives
The Rising Stars Youth Theatre Company (RSYTC) is bringing Broadway-style training to Sparta, New Jersey, with its highly anticipated Summer
The stage is set in Sparta, New Jersey, as the Rising Stars Youth Theatre Company (RSYTC) prepares for its highly anticipated Summer 2026 Theatre Intensives. Known for its high-energy, professional-grade productions, this award-winning non-profit is offering a trio of hit musicals for young performers aged 8 to 18 (Grades 2–12).
Registration is currently open, but with several deadlines approaching in late March, local families are encouraged to act quickly to secure a spot in the spotlight.
2026 Summer Lineup
This year, RSYTC is bringing three distinct Broadway-style experiences to the stage. Each intensive includes rigorous training in acting, singing, and dancing, culminating in live public performances.
Find out what's happening in Hopatcong-Spartafor free with the latest updates from Patch.
| Musical Production | Eligible Grades | Audition Deadline |
| Bye Bye Birdie | Grades 2–12 | March 30, 2026 |
| The Lion King Jr. | Grades 2–8 | March 30, 2026 |
| Newsies | Grades 2–12 | March 30, 2026 |
What to Expect
Unlike traditional summer camps, these intensives are designed as full-scale theatrical workshops.
- Schedule: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM.
- Location: Pehrson Hall (at the First Presbyterian Church of Sparta), 32 Main Street, Sparta, NJ.
- Training: Students work with a professional staff of directors, choreographers, and musicians to develop vocal projection, stage presence, and character authenticity.
- Community: RSYTC is celebrated for its supportive environment, ensuring every child—from the lead to the ensemble—feels like a star.
How to Audition
Auditions for the 2026 season are being handled via video submission only. RSYTC emphasizes a "heart over perfection" philosophy, casting over 95% of those who audition.
Find out what's happening in Hopatcong-Spartafor free with the latest updates from Patch.
- Register: Sign up for your preferred intensive on the official website.
- Record: Prepare 2–3 minutes of your favorite song (with a backing track) and a monologue specific to the show you are auditioning for.
- Submit: Upload your video by the specific show deadline listed above.
"Rising Stars has been a gift for our family... they see each child as an individual and bring out the best in them." — Erica Hertzberg, Parent
For more information on tuition, scheduling, or to start the registration process, visit Rising Stars Youth Theatre Co. or call 973-346-2426.
