Theatre & Performing Arts

Auditorium Updates:

January 15, 2025 update:

The stage floor has been taken out and will be replaced. It is almost ready to be reinstalled, we are just waiting to ensure all of the moisture testing comes back satisfactory before reinstalling.
We had a vendor out last week to look at all of the equipment in that space. They are working on their summary now, and will let us know their recommendations for repairs/replacements as well as evaluating the curtain and projector equipment.
A few of the seats were burned (40). We are working with the vendor now to come up with a replacement plan. Seats at this point are our biggest concern as they are our longest lead time product (at least to our knowledge currently). We will not have much information on this for a couple weeks as they are going to work on trying to find matching fabric and an alternate replacement plan and get back to us.
Carpet will be replaced in the entire space.
Cleaning will start once the floor is back in, and take about 4-5 weeks. The company will clean from the ceiling down all areas and spaces in the auditorium.
Some electrical work will have to be done (we are waiting on the final recommendation for this).

January 5, 2026 update:

Dear Sparta Area Schools Families,
I am writing to inform you of an incident that occurred late in the evening on December 26 at the Sparta High School auditorium.
A fire was detected in the auditorium, and the building’s installed fire suppression system activated and successfully extinguished the fire. The Sparta Fire Department responded promptly and provided assistance upon arrival. We are very grateful for their quick response and support.
At this time, we know that multiple auditorium seats were damaged by the fire. The fire was contained to a couple of small areas within the auditorium, and there was no fire damage to other parts of the building. The fire suppression system dispensed significant amounts of water that created further concerns and considerations. The district is still assessing the full extent of the damage, but it is clear that the auditorium will require sizable repairs and restoration before it can be reopened.
We are actively working with the fire marshal, fire investigators, and our insurance provider to develop a repair plan and timeline so the auditorium can be safely returned to school and community use as soon as possible.
In the meantime, individual buildings and program leaders will be working to reschedule or relocate upcoming music performances, band and choir concerts, and school plays. More information about specific events will be shared by schools as plans are finalized.
Thank you for your understanding and support as we work through this situation. We will continue to communicate updates as more information becomes available.

Sincerely,
Joel Stoner, Superintendent

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