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 Daily from Jul 28, 2025 to Jul 30, 2025
    Grades 7th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 100
    Register
    Registration closes Jul 28, 2025

    Technical Theater Workshop

    Schedule Daily from Jul 28, 2025 to Jul 30, 2025
    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.

Fall 2025 Semester

Classes for this semester (unless otherwise noted) are held at South Suburban Church in Apple Valley on Wednesdays from Aug 27, 2025 to Dec 3, 2025 except for Nov 26, 2025.

Classes

  • Once Upon a Stage
    Once Upon a Stage
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama
    Class Times
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 27, 2025 to Dec 3, 2025
    Grades K - 2nd
    Tuition Fee 187 177
    Register
    Registration closes Aug 27, 2025 Early registration discount expires Aug 1, 2025

    Once Upon a Stage

    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 27, 2025 to Dec 3, 2025
    Class Times
    Grades K - 2nd
    Tuition Fee 187 177

    Step into a world of imagination, movement, and make-believe in this playful beginning acting class designed just for K–2 students! Each week, young performers will explore a new story-inspired theme — from superheroes to animals, fairy tales to outer space — as they learn the basics of acting through games, storytelling, and creative movement. With a strong focus on confidence, teamwork, and expressive play, students will develop their performance skills while bringing characters and stories to life. Whether we're pretending to be pirates, robots, or jungle animals, the spotlight is always on fun! The semester will end with a lighthearted sharing day to celebrate the magical moments created once upon a stage.

    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 Aug 27, 2025 to Dec 3, 2025
    Grades 2nd - 6th
    Tuition Fee 190 180
    Register
    Registration closes Aug 27, 2025 Early registration discount expires Aug 1, 2025

    Elementary Musical Theatre

    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 27, 2025 to Dec 3, 2025
    Class Times
    Grades 2nd - 6th
    Tuition Fee 190 180

    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!

    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!

  • Storybook Court: Full of Beans
    Storybook Court: Full of Beans
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama
    Class Times
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 27, 2025 to Dec 3, 2025
    Grades 3rd - 6th
    Tuition Fee 187 177
    Register
    Registration closes Aug 27, 2025 Early registration discount expires Aug 1, 2025

    Storybook Court: Full of Beans

    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 27, 2025 to Dec 3, 2025
    Class Times
    Grades 3rd - 6th
    Tuition Fee 187 177

    Jack is on trial—and you're part of the courtroom!

    What really happened up that beanstalk? Was Jack a brave hero… or a mischievous thief? In this imaginative drama class, students in grades 3–6 will dive into the world of fairy tale justice in Story Book Court: Full of Beans, a fun, fast-paced original play where Jack from Jack and the Beanstalk is put on trial for theft.

    Each student will be cast in a role as we bring the story to life through characters like Jack, the Giant, the Goose, a team of quirky lawyers, and a courtroom full of unforgettable fairy tale witnesses. Along the way, students will learn stage presence, character development, voice projection, and teamwork as we rehearse the play.

    This class offers a supportive environment where everyone has a role and a chance to shine. The semester will culminate in a fun and lively performance for family and friends, showcasing all the hard work and creativity the students have put into their production.

    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.

  • Foundational Acting
    Foundational Acting
    Jaylin Hustedde
    Drama, Dance, and Theatre
    Class Times
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 27, 2025 to Dec 3, 2025
    Grades 7th - 9th
    Tuition Fee 195 185
    Register
    Registration closes Aug 27, 2025 Early registration discount expires Aug 1, 2025

    Foundational Acting

    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 27, 2025 to Dec 3, 2025
    Class Times
    Grades 7th - 9th
    Tuition Fee 195 185

    Unlock your creative potential and discover the magic of storytelling through acting! This foundational course is designed for students grades 7-9 who want to refine their acting skills and grow in their craft. The course focuses on the core skills of acting, including character development, emotional expression, improvisation, and scene work. Through fun, interactive exercises and group activities, students will learn how to connect with others on stage, use their voices and bodies effectively, and build confidence in front of an audience. By the end of the course, students will have a strong foundation in the basics of acting, ready to explore more advanced techniques and performances.

    No prior theater experience required.

    The last session will include a brief non-ticketed performance.

    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!

  • Scene Writing for Musicals
    Scene Writing for Musicals
    Michelle Rose
    Choir, Drama, Private Lessons, and Theatre
    Class Times
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 27, 2025 to Dec 3, 2025
    Grades 7th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 195 185
    Register
    Registration closes Aug 27, 2025 Early registration discount expires Aug 1, 2025

    Scene Writing for Musicals

    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 27, 2025 to Dec 3, 2025
    Class Times
    Grades 7th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 195 185

    Spend a semester applying elements of story and musical theatre in writing scenes that incorporate songs (either popular or original*), and workshopping with your classmates for performances at the end of the semester. Equal parts story & script writing, theatrical staging, and musical performance, we will focus on the creative process and collaborative nature of writing and putting a scene to paper, stage, and music. Class time will include writing to prompts, sharing with peers, editing, and blocking for performance. This class may count as a performing arts elective or creative writing course for the semester.

    *Songwriting will not be taught in this class- students will be encouraged to use recorded songs (any genre) in their scenes, as found in jukebox musicals. However young songwriters are welcome to incorporate their original music if they would like.

    Required: IEW or other creative writing foundation, and ability to format and print scripts from home.

    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.

  • Advanced Acting
    Advanced Acting
    Jaylin Hustedde
    Drama, Dance, and Theatre
    Class Times
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 27, 2025 to Dec 3, 2025
    Grades 10th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 195 185
    Register
    Registration closes Aug 27, 2025 Early registration discount expires Aug 1, 2025

    Advanced Acting

    Advanced Acting
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 27, 2025 to Dec 3, 2025
    Class Times
    Grades 10th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 195 185

    Take your acting to the next level in this dynamic and challenging course designed for teen performers. Students will dive deep into a wide range of theater styles, from classical to contemporary, exploring different techniques and theatrical styles. Through intensive scene work, improvisation, and performance, students will refine their craft, expand their emotional range, and develop a nuanced approach to both character and text. This class emphasizes the importance of versatility, discipline, and ensemble collaboration as students prepare for complex roles and diverse performance opportunities. By the end of the course, students will have honed their skills to deliver powerful and authentic performances across various theatrical genres.

    No prior theater experience required - the first session will be a crash course in theater to set the stage for the rest of the sessions.

    The last session will include a brief non-ticketed performance.

    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!