Spark, The Theater Bug by Lisa Morabito Petersen

Review by Angie Carlson

Lisa Morabito Petersen eloquently captures the intersection between aspiration and opportunity in Spark, The Theater Bug, showing that the road to achieving our dreams must be paved by both the strength of our support system and an unwavering belief in ourselves.

Vibrant illustrations and adorable characters will enchant readers as they follow the journey of Spark, a hopeful lightning bug with a passion for the theater, a magical place where storytelling comes to life.

Spark’s current job — stage lighting! — is great, but his big dream is to become a performer like the show’s star, his best friend, Ember.  Meanwhile, Ember’s big dream is to earn a spot on the all-star soccer team.

Parents and teachers can dig in right here on page 3: It’s not uncommon to have an “ember” skill (something you’re consistently good at such as math, sports, or dancing) while seeking to “spark” or grow in other areas that interest you.  Spark, The Theater Bug teaches that typecasting need not be an issue for kids who want to explore outside their demonstrated talents. 

When Spark is called to perform as the understudy for an evening show, he gets his big chance. Through a swirl of adrenaline-fueled emotions — from nervousness to resolve — Spark navigates the 10-second journey from Can I? to I can! and models a healthy mindset for kids who may question their abilities in a public setting such as at school or on the playground.

Digging deeper, we might ask listening ears: How did Spark find his confidence in this moment?

An opportunity to discuss the importance of a support system emerges.  First, Spark’s dad frequently reminds him to be “100% you.” Ongoing encouragement from parents and teachers is a vital ingredient for enabling healthy coping mechanisms and self-confidence in children. 

Second, Ember’s unwavering faith in Spark gives him additional courage to accept the challenge. Rather than being competitive or territorial, Ember proves that he is invested in Spark’s success.

Finally, individual members of the stage crew further reassure Spark in the moments leading to his curtain call, allowing him to fully enjoy the moment without worry. The lesson to proactively raise each other up comes through and is one that children of all ages should learn.

In a society shaped by social media influencers and impossible expectations, kids find themselves adapting their personalities to fit in and then competing with each other to stand out. Ember and the crew’s choice to rally behind Spark diffuses both downfalls, illustrating that magic can happen when we allow our unique strengths to shine and work toward the greatest possible outcome together.

Spark’s most significant and final challenge arrives during the big show when he suddenly trips on stage.  Facing self-defined failure, Spark realizes he is the final pillar of the support system.  Choosing to believe in himself, Spark finds a solution that proves success, in the end, is up to us.  Encouragement from our parents and friends may create a solid platform, but it is we who must take flight independently to accomplish our goals. 

Spark, The Theater Bug is a cheerful ballad of optimistic characters that leads to a final moment of necessary resilience. With breadth and depth beyond the limits of a picture book, Spark reaches new heights in capturing the inner voice in us all.

Lisa Morabito Petersen is a producer at TheaterWorksUSA and interim Sr. Director of Education at Segerstrom Center for the Arts.  Applying her vast experience, she incorporates a backstage tour and accompanying glossary in Spark, The Theater Bug to educate kids on the world of theater and its inclusive nature.  Aside from performing, individuals can find a home within the theater family across various roles, including costume and set design, music and sound, lighting, and more.