Classes

Drama

TCHA offers several drama classes each semester for a variety of ages ranging from Kindergarten through 12th grade.

Pop-up Classes

  • Technical Theater Workshop
    Technical Theater Workshop
    Jaylin Hustedde
    Drama, Dance, and Theatre
    Class Times
    Schedule Wed, Jan 14, 2026
    Grades 7th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 100
    Register
    Registration closes Jan 14, 2026

    Technical Theater Workshop

    Schedule Wed, Jan 14, 2026
    Class Times
    Grades 7th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 100

    This hands-on workshop introduces students to the essential elements of technical theater. Participants will explore the behind-the-scenes work that brings a stage production to life, including set design, lighting, sound, costumes, props, and stage management. After this workshop students will understand the different aspects of technical theatre, stage terminology, production planning, and teamwork.

    No prior experience is required—just a willingness to collaborate, create, and explore the technical side of theater.

    Instructor

    Jaylin Hustedde
    Jaylin Hustedde
    Drama, Dance, and Theatre

    Jaylin Hustedde is an actor, director, and teaching artist based in the Twin Cities. She is a recent graduate of the University of Northwestern St Paul with degrees in Theater and Communication Arts and Literature Education. She has worked with students of all ages at Locally Grown Theatre and Blue Water Theater Company. Some past Directing and Choreography credits include: The Jungle Book (Director), Pickle Chiffon Pie the Musical (Choreographer), Spring Break Cabaret, 2022 and 2023 (Choreographer), These Shining Lives (Assistant Director). Jaylin is passionate about inspiring artists of the next generation and is excited to work with the students of TCHA!

  • Drama Club
    Drama Club
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama
    Schedule Monthly (dates TBD) from Aug 1, 2025 to May 31, 2026
    Grades 8th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 75
    Register
    Registration closes Apr 1, 2026

    Drama Club

    Schedule Monthly (dates TBD) from Aug 1, 2025 to May 31, 2026
    Grades 8th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 75

    Get ready for another fantastic year of creativity, laughter, and theatre magic—because Drama Club is making a comeback, and we’re bringing all the fun with us! We’ll revisit favorite activities from last year (can you say Murder Mystery Party?), while adding exciting new events along the way.

    Drama Club will meet once a month from August to May, offering an ever-changing mix of activities designed to spark imagination and deepen students’ love for theater. From local show outings and table reads to karaoke/master class nights, character-themed events, and interactive drama games, there’s something for everyone—whether you love being on stage, behind the scenes, or just hanging out with fellow theatre fans.

    There may be optional costs for field trips and special events, but the core experience is all about fun, friendship, and growing together as performers.

    Join us! Let’s make this year our most dramatic (and fun) yet!

    Instructor

    Michelle Swanson
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama

    Michelle Swanson found her passion for music and the stage as a young child. The flame for performance flourished as she grew, adding piano, organ, trumpet, guitar, dance, and theatre to choral and solo singing. This led to a BA in Music Performance with an emphasis on vocal jazz, touring as a lead vocalist in her band, and collaborating with various artists on recordings and professional jingles. She spent several years as a worship director, leading bands, choirs, and vocalists in a variety of church settings. After becoming a mom, she has dedicated the bulk of her adult life to home-educating her five amazing children.
    Michelle's passion for the arts led her to embrace production management, stagecraft, and theatre arts. Since 2022, she has been the Production Manager for TCHA, where she oversees a range of productions. She now serves as Artistic Director within TCHA, curating and shepherding the theatrical process of our theatre productions. Additionally, Michelle works as the Chapel Producer at Grace Church in Eden Prairie, blending her expertise in production with her commitment to fostering creativity and excellence.
    Based in Lakeville with her husband David, children, and Archie the dog, in her down time, you’ll find Michelle traveling with her family, playing Dutch Blitz, or watching classic TV late at night. Michelle is devoted to empowering students in the fine arts. She provides opportunities for students to shine on stage and master behind the scenes production elements, seeking a bright future for the next generation of artists and professionals in our homeschool community.

Spring 2026 Semester

Classes for this semester (unless otherwise noted) are held at South Suburban Church in Apple Valley on Wednesdays from Jan 21, 2026 to Apr 29, 2026 except for Apr 1, 2026.

Classes

  • Mini Class #1: Winter Wiggle Workout - Frozen Fun Edition
    Mini Class #1: Winter Wiggle Workout - Frozen Fun Edition
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama
    Class Times
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Jan 21, 2026 to Feb 4, 2026
    Grades K - 2nd
    Tuition Fee 60 55
    Register
    Registration closes Jan 21, 2026 Early registration discount expires Jan 1, 2026

    Mini Class #1: Winter Wiggle Workout - Frozen Fun Edition

    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Jan 21, 2026 to Feb 4, 2026
    Class Times
    Grades K - 2nd
    Tuition Fee 60 55

    A high-energy, movement-based class full of freeze dances, silly stretches, and playful winter-themed activities inspired by Elsa, Anna, and Olaf! Kids will wiggle, jump, stomp, and act out fun “Frozen” movements. Perfect for kids who love moving, laughing, and imagining themselves in a winter wonderland!

    Note: this class is only three weeks long. Be sure to sign up for each "Mini Class" that you would like your child to participate in.

    Instructor

    Michelle Swanson
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama

    Michelle Swanson found her passion for music and the stage as a young child. The flame for performance flourished as she grew, adding piano, organ, trumpet, guitar, dance, and theatre to choral and solo singing. This led to a BA in Music Performance with an emphasis on vocal jazz, touring as a lead vocalist in her band, and collaborating with various artists on recordings and professional jingles. She spent several years as a worship director, leading bands, choirs, and vocalists in a variety of church settings. After becoming a mom, she has dedicated the bulk of her adult life to home-educating her five amazing children.
    Michelle's passion for the arts led her to embrace production management, stagecraft, and theatre arts. Since 2022, she has been the Production Manager for TCHA, where she oversees a range of productions. She now serves as Artistic Director within TCHA, curating and shepherding the theatrical process of our theatre productions. Additionally, Michelle works as the Chapel Producer at Grace Church in Eden Prairie, blending her expertise in production with her commitment to fostering creativity and excellence.
    Based in Lakeville with her husband David, children, and Archie the dog, in her down time, you’ll find Michelle traveling with her family, playing Dutch Blitz, or watching classic TV late at night. Michelle is devoted to empowering students in the fine arts. She provides opportunities for students to shine on stage and master behind the scenes production elements, seeking a bright future for the next generation of artists and professionals in our homeschool community.

  • Mini Class #2: Ocean Adventure - Finding Nemo Fun
    Mini Class #2: Ocean Adventure - Finding Nemo Fun
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama
    Class Times
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Feb 11, 2026 to Feb 25, 2026
    Grades K - 2nd
    Tuition Fee 60 55
    Register
    Registration closes Feb 11, 2026 Early registration discount expires Jan 1, 2026

    Mini Class #2: Ocean Adventure - Finding Nemo Fun

    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Feb 11, 2026 to Feb 25, 2026
    Class Times
    Grades K - 2nd
    Tuition Fee 60 55

    Dive into three weeks of underwater giggles, movement, and acting inspired by Finding Nemo! Kids explore gestures, wiggly movements, funny voices, and mini-improv bits as they bring Nemo, Dory, and Marlin/Crush to life.

    Note: this class is only three weeks long. Be sure to sign up for each "Mini Class" that you would like your child to participate in.

    Instructor

    Michelle Swanson
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama

    Michelle Swanson found her passion for music and the stage as a young child. The flame for performance flourished as she grew, adding piano, organ, trumpet, guitar, dance, and theatre to choral and solo singing. This led to a BA in Music Performance with an emphasis on vocal jazz, touring as a lead vocalist in her band, and collaborating with various artists on recordings and professional jingles. She spent several years as a worship director, leading bands, choirs, and vocalists in a variety of church settings. After becoming a mom, she has dedicated the bulk of her adult life to home-educating her five amazing children.
    Michelle's passion for the arts led her to embrace production management, stagecraft, and theatre arts. Since 2022, she has been the Production Manager for TCHA, where she oversees a range of productions. She now serves as Artistic Director within TCHA, curating and shepherding the theatrical process of our theatre productions. Additionally, Michelle works as the Chapel Producer at Grace Church in Eden Prairie, blending her expertise in production with her commitment to fostering creativity and excellence.
    Based in Lakeville with her husband David, children, and Archie the dog, in her down time, you’ll find Michelle traveling with her family, playing Dutch Blitz, or watching classic TV late at night. Michelle is devoted to empowering students in the fine arts. She provides opportunities for students to shine on stage and master behind the scenes production elements, seeking a bright future for the next generation of artists and professionals in our homeschool community.

  • Mini Class #3: Toy Story Comedy Kid’s Club
    Mini Class #3: Toy Story Comedy Kid’s Club
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama
    Class Times
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Mar 4, 2026 to Mar 18, 2026
    Grades K - 2nd
    Tuition Fee 60 55
    Register
    Registration closes Mar 4, 2026 Early registration discount expires Jan 1, 2026

    Mini Class #3: Toy Story Comedy Kid’s Club

    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Mar 4, 2026 to Mar 18, 2026
    Class Times
    Grades K - 2nd
    Tuition Fee 60 55

    A playful introduction to comedy and physical acting with Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and Slinky Dog! Kids explore funny walks, exaggerated gestures, silly voices, and short comedic sketches.

    Note: this class is only three weeks long. Be sure to sign up for each "Mini Class" that you would like your child to participate in.

    Instructor

    Michelle Swanson
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama

    Michelle Swanson found her passion for music and the stage as a young child. The flame for performance flourished as she grew, adding piano, organ, trumpet, guitar, dance, and theatre to choral and solo singing. This led to a BA in Music Performance with an emphasis on vocal jazz, touring as a lead vocalist in her band, and collaborating with various artists on recordings and professional jingles. She spent several years as a worship director, leading bands, choirs, and vocalists in a variety of church settings. After becoming a mom, she has dedicated the bulk of her adult life to home-educating her five amazing children.
    Michelle's passion for the arts led her to embrace production management, stagecraft, and theatre arts. Since 2022, she has been the Production Manager for TCHA, where she oversees a range of productions. She now serves as Artistic Director within TCHA, curating and shepherding the theatrical process of our theatre productions. Additionally, Michelle works as the Chapel Producer at Grace Church in Eden Prairie, blending her expertise in production with her commitment to fostering creativity and excellence.
    Based in Lakeville with her husband David, children, and Archie the dog, in her down time, you’ll find Michelle traveling with her family, playing Dutch Blitz, or watching classic TV late at night. Michelle is devoted to empowering students in the fine arts. She provides opportunities for students to shine on stage and master behind the scenes production elements, seeking a bright future for the next generation of artists and professionals in our homeschool community.

  • Elementary Musical Theatre
    Elementary Musical Theatre
    Dylan Sauder
    Choir and Drama
    Class Times
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Jan 21, 2026 to Apr 29, 2026
    Grades 2nd - 6th
    Tuition Fee 210 200
    Register
    Registration closes Jan 21, 2026 Early registration discount expires Jan 1, 2026

    Elementary Musical Theatre

    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Jan 21, 2026 to Apr 29, 2026
    Class Times
    Grades 2nd - 6th
    Tuition Fee 210 200

    Calling all aspiring performers! Come actively explore your dramatic side as you sing, dance, and act in a variety of musical theater songs, theater games, and other creative activities. Be ready to sing, move, imagine, create…and have fun!

    At the end of the semester (dates TBD), the kids will be performing a Bible-based musical production.

    Instructor

    Dylan Sauder
    Dylan Sauder
    Choir and Drama

    Dylan Sauder is a Twin Cities music educator and performer. He earned his Bachelor of Music Education in Vocal and Classroom Music from University of Northwestern-St. Paul, as well as a major in Bible and a Spanish minor. While much of his teaching experience has been PK-8th grade General Music, he has also taught choir for grades 4-12, beginning band and strings, piano and voice lessons, and musical theater classes, in addition to music directing and choreographing several elementary and middle school musicals.

    When not teaching, Dylan enjoys performing, especially on-stage in musical theater productions and singing in any number of genres. In his free time, he enjoys being outside in nature, spending time with friends and family, reading, and traveling. He is so excited to create and explore with the elementary singers of TCHA this school year!

  • Silly Skits
    Silly Skits
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama
    Class Times
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Jan 21, 2026 to Apr 29, 2026
    Grades 3rd - 6th
    Tuition Fee 182 172
    Register
    Registration closes Jan 21, 2026 Early registration discount expires Jan 1, 2026

    Silly Skits

    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Jan 21, 2026 to Apr 29, 2026
    Class Times
    Grades 3rd - 6th
    Tuition Fee 182 172

    Laugh, act, and create! Students will dive into fun, wacky scenes, build silly characters, and learn the basics of acting…all while boosting confidence and teamwork. No experience needed…just bring your imagination!

    Instructor

    Michelle Swanson
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama

    Michelle Swanson found her passion for music and the stage as a young child. The flame for performance flourished as she grew, adding piano, organ, trumpet, guitar, dance, and theatre to choral and solo singing. This led to a BA in Music Performance with an emphasis on vocal jazz, touring as a lead vocalist in her band, and collaborating with various artists on recordings and professional jingles. She spent several years as a worship director, leading bands, choirs, and vocalists in a variety of church settings. After becoming a mom, she has dedicated the bulk of her adult life to home-educating her five amazing children.
    Michelle's passion for the arts led her to embrace production management, stagecraft, and theatre arts. Since 2022, she has been the Production Manager for TCHA, where she oversees a range of productions. She now serves as Artistic Director within TCHA, curating and shepherding the theatrical process of our theatre productions. Additionally, Michelle works as the Chapel Producer at Grace Church in Eden Prairie, blending her expertise in production with her commitment to fostering creativity and excellence.
    Based in Lakeville with her husband David, children, and Archie the dog, in her down time, you’ll find Michelle traveling with her family, playing Dutch Blitz, or watching classic TV late at night. Michelle is devoted to empowering students in the fine arts. She provides opportunities for students to shine on stage and master behind the scenes production elements, seeking a bright future for the next generation of artists and professionals in our homeschool community.

  • Musical Theatre Solos
    Musical Theatre Solos
    Michelle Rose
    Choir, Drama, Private Lessons, and Theatre
    Class Times
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Jan 21, 2026 to Apr 29, 2026
    Grades 7th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 192 182
    Register
    Registration closes Jan 21, 2026 Early registration discount expires Jan 1, 2026

    Musical Theatre Solos

    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Jan 21, 2026 to Apr 29, 2026
    Class Times
    Grades 7th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 192 182

    Students will work on and prepare, on their own time, a different solo to perform each week - chosen with Ms. R's guidance. Each week will focus on a specific genre or musical theatre style. Students will receive helpful feedback on their performance from Ms. Rose, and uplifting encouragement from their peers. Our final week will be a performance at a Retirement Center.

    Requirements: Intermediate to advanced vocal skills. Students must be able to sing and hold pitch, as this is not a voice class to teach general singing.

    Instructor

    Michelle Rose
    Michelle Rose
    Choir, Drama, Private Lessons, and Theatre

    Michelle has been a seeker of creativity & wonderment since childhood. Raised in Madagascar and Minnesota, as a young girl Michelle fell in love with the internal landscape of books and story, and the external narrative of nature and the outdoors, with music woven throughout both worlds. As a teenager she filled her days with theater, choir, speech, and music and found in those spaces both her strengths and gifting, as well as her people and belonging.

    Often asked what theatrical roles have been her favorites to play on stage, of course the dramatic ones are always the most enjoyable: Reno Sweeney in Anything Goes, Drizella in Cinderella, and Eileen in Arsenic and Old Lace are some of her favorites. Still on her wishlist: Persephone in Hadestown and any role in Les Misérables.

    Michelle received a BA in Music Performance with a vocal emphasis from Colorado Christian University, and spent the following years touring with various groups and working as a studio musician and vocalist for commercial and corporate events. Michelle has also led worship for over 25 years, recorded on various worship albums featuring her original music, and released two solo albums as a singer-songwriter.

    In 2013 Michelle joined the founding board of Twin Cities Homeschoolers for the Arts and is passionate about providing faith-based quality performing arts opportunities to the homeschooling community. Michelle has a special love for working with teens, enjoying the role of music director for TCHA musical productions since 2018, and is expanding that role to director in 2023. She has two college-age children, Kenoy and Paris, and lives in Eagan, MN.

  • Sketch Comedy
    Sketch Comedy
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama
    Class Times
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Jan 21, 2026 to Apr 29, 2026
    Grades 7th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 187 177
    Register
    Registration closes Jan 21, 2026 Early registration discount expires Jan 1, 2026

    Sketch Comedy

    Sketch Comedy
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Jan 21, 2026 to Apr 29, 2026
    Class Times
    Grades 7th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 187 177

    Laugh, perform, and explore the art of comedy! In this class, students will rehearse and perform a mix of classic comedy sketches and newer, kid-friendly favorites like Studio C. They’ll learn comedic timing, character development, and teamwork, and may even create an original sketch of their own. This class builds confidence, stage presence, and performance skills all while having a blast and making each other laugh.

    Instructor

    Michelle Swanson
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama

    Michelle Swanson found her passion for music and the stage as a young child. The flame for performance flourished as she grew, adding piano, organ, trumpet, guitar, dance, and theatre to choral and solo singing. This led to a BA in Music Performance with an emphasis on vocal jazz, touring as a lead vocalist in her band, and collaborating with various artists on recordings and professional jingles. She spent several years as a worship director, leading bands, choirs, and vocalists in a variety of church settings. After becoming a mom, she has dedicated the bulk of her adult life to home-educating her five amazing children.
    Michelle's passion for the arts led her to embrace production management, stagecraft, and theatre arts. Since 2022, she has been the Production Manager for TCHA, where she oversees a range of productions. She now serves as Artistic Director within TCHA, curating and shepherding the theatrical process of our theatre productions. Additionally, Michelle works as the Chapel Producer at Grace Church in Eden Prairie, blending her expertise in production with her commitment to fostering creativity and excellence.
    Based in Lakeville with her husband David, children, and Archie the dog, in her down time, you’ll find Michelle traveling with her family, playing Dutch Blitz, or watching classic TV late at night. Michelle is devoted to empowering students in the fine arts. She provides opportunities for students to shine on stage and master behind the scenes production elements, seeking a bright future for the next generation of artists and professionals in our homeschool community.

  • Triple Threat!
    Triple Threat!
    Jaylin Hustedde
    Drama, Dance, and Theatre
    Lizzie Zanto
    Dance and Theatre
    Class Times
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Jan 21, 2026 to Apr 29, 2026
    Grades 7th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 211 201
    Register
    Registration closes Jan 21, 2026 Early registration discount expires Jan 1, 2026

    Triple Threat!

    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Jan 21, 2026 to Apr 29, 2026
    Class Times
    Grades 7th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 211 201

    In this class, students will develop their talents and grow their skills to become stand out triple threats! Throughout the semester, students will grow their foundational skills of acting through song and dance, expand their musical theatre auditioning skills, explore what makes the genre of musical theatre so special, attend a live musical performance (optional), learn and perform choreography as well as large and small group musical numbers. Students will receive large group and individualized feedback on their work throughout the class. The final performance of this class would be a showstopping cabaret with selections of work from the semester! No prior experience required, just a positive attitude and willingness to learn!

    Instructors

    Jaylin Hustedde
    Jaylin Hustedde
    Drama, Dance, and Theatre

    Jaylin Hustedde is an actor, director, and teaching artist based in the Twin Cities. She is a recent graduate of the University of Northwestern St Paul with degrees in Theater and Communication Arts and Literature Education. She has worked with students of all ages at Locally Grown Theatre and Blue Water Theater Company. Some past Directing and Choreography credits include: The Jungle Book (Director), Pickle Chiffon Pie the Musical (Choreographer), Spring Break Cabaret, 2022 and 2023 (Choreographer), These Shining Lives (Assistant Director). Jaylin is passionate about inspiring artists of the next generation and is excited to work with the students of TCHA!

    Lizzie Zanto
    Lizzie Zanto
    Dance and Theatre

    Lizzie Zanto is an actor, choreographer, TCHA alum, and teaching professional based in the Twin Cities. She is a graduate of University of Northwestern - St. Paul with a degree in Youth and Emerging Adult studies and minors in theatre, psychology, and Bible. She has choreographed 6 musicals and taught private lessons in Jazz, Tap, and Musical Theatre styles of dance. During her time teaching, Lizzie has worked with students ages 5 - 65+! Some past professional credits include: Mary Poppins (Choreographer), Wizard of Oz (Choreographer), Beauty and the Beast Jr. (Choreographer) Matilda (Asst. Choreographer). Lizzie is passionate about supporting students as they develop their gifts, unleash their potential, and she is thrilled to return to TCHA as an instructor!