Metro Theater Company Announces SPARK! Campaign to Ensure Future for Youth and Family Programming

Metro Theater Company (MTC), the region's only professional theater company solely dedicated to youth, schools, and families, announces the launch of the SPARK! Campaign to Support our Plays And Reignite Kids’ !magination. After facing significant financial challenges over the past few years, MTC is initiating this campaign to raise $1,000,000 by June 30, 2025 to secure the company’s future and continue its vital programming. 

Over the past several years, MTC, like many theater companies across the country, has experienced rising costs and dwindling corporate support, compounded by the end of pandemic-era funding. This situation led to multiple years of deficit and significant debt, nearly forcing the company to close its doors after 50 years of service. Through generous emergency funds from MTC’s long-standing supporters, the company has been able to continue operations, but additional support is needed to prevent further deficits and replenish depleted reserve funds. 

"In spite of everything, we’ve been very fortunate," said Managing Director, Jessie Youngblood. "People who have been impacted by Metro have a deep love and reverence for the work we do. The immediate response we received when we asked for help reflected that. The emergency funds we raised helped us solve the problem of viability. Now we need to solve the problem of sustainability – and we’re calling on the community for help." 

With sustained support from the community, MTC has a lot to be excited about, including the recent appointment of Artistic Director, Jacqueline Thompson. Last month, MTC announced its 52nd Season, focused on possibility, creativity, and connection. Under Jacqueline’s artistic leadership, MTC will bring to the stage powerful narratives like An Unlikely Hero and But What Can You Do? - each exploring themes of heroism, resilience, and joyful celebration. MTC has also launched Baby Rave, a new program for the youngest theatergoers. This interactive performance blends music, movement, and sensory play, creating a vibrant celebration that families will cherish. Beyond the stage, MTC will continue to deliver education programs in schools, using theatrical techniques to explore social and emotional learning, develop empathy, investigate historical and current instances of bullying and oppression, and connect students’ lived experiences to topics covered in social studies and literature.   

In addition to serving as a vital part of St. Louis’ cultural landscape, the 52nd Season has also been carefully planned to ensure financial feasibility – there are no anticipated show cancellations even if the SPARK! Campaign fundraising goal is not met. 

“I’m grateful to the board at Metro, who was transparent with me during the whole Artistic Director search process about the financial position of the company,” said Jacqueline Thompson. “We all agree Metro is a company who knows how to do ‘small and scrappy’ brilliantly. I’m honored to continue this legacy of excellence and excited by the possibilities that lie ahead.” 

The SPARK! Campaign is a crucial step for the organization in securing the resources needed to sustain its mission and continue delivering transformative experiences to young audiences throughout St. Louis. Funds raised through the SPARK! Campaign will: 

• 50% of funds raised will support regular programming, including touring/mainstage productions and education programs. 

• 20% of funds raised will help expand existing programs, ensuring that essential arts education reaches schools with severely reduced budgets. 

• 30% of funds raised will retire debt and build reserves, allowing leadership to focus on delivering impactful programs. 

Over the past 51 years, Metro Theater Company has impacted more than 2 million people. The services provided by MTC in schools and communities are crucial for fostering a strong, vibrant, and diverse St. Louis where every young person is empowered to reach their full potential. 

For more information about the SPARK! Campaign and how you can support Metro Theater Company, please visit the website or contact Jessie Youngblood, Managing Director, directly at jessie@metroplays.org or 314-932-7414 x 102.