Rochester Community and Technical College (RCTC) is excited to announce the launch of Spotlight Academy, a dynamic new 8-week youth theatre program for students in grades 3 through 12. This engaging initiative will meet eight times over four months, beginning in November 2025 and running through February 2026 from 4pm-5:30pm.
Spotlight Academy is designed to fill a critical gap in youth theatre education across southeastern Minnesota. With demand for accessible, high-quality theatre training on the rise—and traditional school-based programs on the decline—RCTC is stepping up to offer a creative, community-based solution that supports young performers’ artistic growth.
“Spotlight Academy isn’t just about teaching theatre—it’s about giving students a voice, building confidence, and fostering community through performance,” said Jerry Casper, creator and instructor of the program. “We are thrilled to offer a space where students can express themselves, explore their talents, and learn the power of storytelling on stage.”
Students will be grouped by grade level and participate in age-appropriate instruction and rehearsal. Each cohort will explore acting fundamentals and character development on the RCTC Hill Theater stage.
Families interested in this unique program should visit rctc.edu/spotlight–academy. Links to need-based scholarship information and registration can be found there.
About the Instructor:
Jerry Casper brings over four decades of experience in youth and collegiate theatre. He holds a master’s degree in Theatre Arts and has been the Director of Theater at RCTC since 2001. Jerry previously served as the Youth Theater Director at Rochester Civic Theatre and is widely recognized in the region as an actor, director, playwright, and improvisational performer. His original scripts and dedication to student-centered education have made a lasting impact on generations of young artists.
Program Highlights:
- Open to students in grades 3–12
- Divided into three age-based cohorts
- Meets eight times from November 2025 to February 2026
- Program is held in RCTC’s Hill Theater
Spotlight Academy is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.
For more information about Spotlight Academy or to register, visit rctc.edu/spotlight–academy or contact gerald.casper@rctc.edu.