Classes

Drama

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

Pop-up Classes

  • Broadway Bootcamp
    Broadway Bootcamp
    Lizzie Zanto
    Drama, Dance, Private Lessons, and Theatre
    Class Times
    Schedule Daily from Aug 6, 2026 to Aug 8, 2026
    Grades 7th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 155
    Register
    Registration closes Aug 6, 2026

    Broadway Bootcamp

    Broadway Bootcamp
    Schedule Daily from Aug 6, 2026 to Aug 8, 2026
    Class Times
    Grades 7th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 155

    Looking for a boost of Broadway in your Summer? Step into the spotlight and experience the excitement of Broadway in this high-energy 3-day intensive designed for students in grades 7–12! This bootcamp is perfect for performers of all levels who are eager to grow their skills in singing, dancing, and acting, challenging themselves while building confidence and stage presence.
    Students will train in a supportive, fast-paced environment as they learn and perform iconic Broadway numbers in small and large group numbers.

    Throughout the three days, students will be encouraged to use their creative instincts, make bold choices, and collaborate with one another in a fun and engaging setting. The experience culminates in an informal showcase where students can share what they’ve learned.

    Due to the length of this course, students will be expected to spend dedicated time outside of class memorizing materials and practicing their choreography over the course of the 3 days. Music for the course may be released a few days prior to the class beginning for students to begin learning. Whether you're new to the stage or looking to grow your skills, this Broadway Bootcamp is a fun and inspiring way to express yourself, build confidence, and create something exciting together!

    When: August 6th-7th (12pm-4pm), August 8th (9am-12pm)

    We will conclude our time with a brief performance beginning at 12pm on August 8th.

    Required materials:

    • Folder/Binder for sheet music
    • Pencil
    • Highlighter
    • Paper
    • Waterbottle
    • Tennis Shoes / Jazz Shoes (Black Preferred)

    Come dressed for movement, prepared with the required materials, and ready to learn quickly!

    Instructor

    Lizzie Zanto
    Lizzie Zanto
    Drama, Dance, Private Lessons, 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!

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

    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 and Theatre

    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 2026 Semester

Classes for this semester (unless otherwise noted) are held at South Suburban Church in Apple Valley on Wednesdays from Aug 26, 2026 to Dec 2, 2026 except for Nov 25, 2026.

Classes

  • Fairy Tale Theatre
    Fairy Tale Theatre
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama and Theatre
    Class Times
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 26, 2026 to Dec 2, 2026
    Grades K - 2nd
    Tuition Fee 187 177
    Early registration discount expires Aug 1, 2026

    Fairy Tale Theatre

    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 26, 2026 to Dec 2, 2026
    Class Times
    Grades K - 2nd
    Tuition Fee 187 177

    Step into a world of magic, adventure, and imagination! In this playful and engaging class, young actors will explore beloved fairy tales while learning the basics of performing on stage.

    Students will bring classic stories to life through creative movement, voice, and character work. Along the way, they’ll build confidence, practice teamwork, and discover how to use their bodies and voices to tell stories. Each class is filled with games, storytelling, and hands on acting activities designed for young theatre students..

    By the end of the session, students will be ready to share their favorite fairy tales in a fun, low-pressure performance for family and friends!

    Instructor

    Michelle Swanson
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama and Theatre

    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, Drama, and Theatre
    Class Times
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 26, 2026 to Dec 2, 2026
    Grades 2nd - 6th
    Tuition Fee 200 190
    Early registration discount expires Aug 1, 2026

    Elementary Musical Theatre

    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 26, 2026 to Dec 2, 2026
    Class Times
    Grades 2nd - 6th
    Tuition Fee 200 190

    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, Drama, and Theatre

    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!

  • Take the Stage
    Take the Stage
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama and Theatre
    Class Times
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 26, 2026 to Dec 2, 2026
    Grades 3rd - 6th
    Tuition Fee 182 172
    Early registration discount expires Aug 1, 2026

    Take the Stage

    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 26, 2026 to Dec 2, 2026
    Class Times
    Grades 3rd - 6th
    Tuition Fee 182 172

    In this acting class, students will dive deeper into the world of theatre as they rehearse and perform a short play (title to be announced).

    Actors will build skills in character development, stage movement, voice projection, and working as an ensemble. Through fun warm-ups, theatre games, and guided rehearsals, students will grow in confidence while learning what it takes to bring a full story to life.

    This class is perfect for both beginners and returning students who are ready for a structured rehearsal process and the excitement of performance. The session will culminate in a presentation of the play for family and friends.

    Instructor

    Michelle Swanson
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama and Theatre

    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.

  • Scene Writing for Musicals
    Scene Writing for Musicals
    Michelle Rose
    Choir, Drama, Private Lessons, and Theatre
    Class Times
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 26, 2026 to Dec 2, 2026
    Grades 7th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 195 185
    Early registration discount expires Aug 1, 2026

    Scene Writing for Musicals

    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 26, 2026 to Dec 2, 2026
    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.

  • The Puppet Project
    The Puppet Project
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama and Theatre
    Class Times
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 26, 2026 to Dec 2, 2026
    Grades 7th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 207 197
    Early registration discount expires Aug 1, 2026

    The Puppet Project

    The Puppet Project
    Schedule Weekly on Wednesdays from Aug 26, 2026 to Dec 2, 2026
    Class Times
    Grades 7th - 12th
    Tuition Fee 207 197

    In this collaborative, creativity driven class for grades 7–12, students will bring stories to life through the art of puppetry. From the first spark of an idea to final performance, participants will work together to create original stories, design and build puppets, and develop engaging characters.

    Students will explore storytelling, voice, movement, and basic performance techniques while learning how to communicate clearly and connect with an audience. The class will culminate in a special performance (or performances) for elementary-aged students, giving participants the opportunity to share their creativity and bring joy to a younger audience.

    This is a perfect class for students who love acting, storytelling, art, or simply creating something meaningful as part of a team.

    *The tuition includes a $20 supply fee to cover materials.

    Instructor

    Michelle Swanson
    Michelle Swanson
    Drama and Theatre

    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.