Belfry Hall, 900 N. Mason St., Appleton, WI Contact Us Registrar
The Valley TroubadoursHomeschool Music & Theater Program

Drama

Drama Classes

Christ-centered theater for young actors, from first-time performers to our audition-only high school troupe.

Troubadours drama cast on stage

A Christmas Carol

Important dates

  • Audition Packet available 8/3, forms due by 8/7
  • Auditions - Aug. 27, 11:30am-4:30pm
  • Mandatory Parent Meeting - Sept 11 @noon
  • Starting Oct 30 - extra afternoon/evening rehearsals begin (3-9pm)
  • NO MISS - beginning Oct. 30
  • Dress Rehearsals - Nov 6 & 7 (9am-?)
  • Tech Week - Nov 8, 9, 10, 11
  • Performances - Nov 12, 13, 14

Nutcracker

Important dates

  • Mandatory Parent Mtg - (Wed Plus Sep 7 @11:30, Company @11:30 and Thur Plus @2:30 Sep 8)
  • Dress Rehearsals - Nov. 18/19 (practices lengthened by 1hr)
  • Performances - Nov. 21: 11am (Wed Plus), 2:30pm (Thur Plus), 6:00pm (Company)

Coming Spring 2027: Newsies Junior!

Drama students on stageDrama directorsDrama productionDrama production

Drama Classes

Drama FAQs

Wednesdays

Drama Plus Wednesdays

Ages 10-14
When
Wednesdays, 10:00-12:00
Show
The Nutcracker
Cost
$150
Where
Stage
Size
Max. 40 per group

Drama Plus is a Christ-centered, performance-focused theater group for young actors ages 10–14. Students explore the art of theater while learning essential skills like blocking, characterization, and choreography—all in a supportive, faith-based environment. Through teamwork, creativity, and storytelling, participants gain confidence and discover how to use their gifts to glorify God. The program culminates in exciting performances that share inspiring stories with friends, family, and the community.

Full description, dates and details

Ages- 10-14
Time - 10:00-12:00
Cost - $150
Max. 40 per group.
Location - Stage

The Nutcracker – Synopsis
This lovingly adapted story by Heather Neumann begins on Christmas Eve. The Stahlbaum home is filled with laughter, music, and celebration. Among the guests is the mysterious DROSSELMEIER, who brings unusual gifts. He reminds the children that the greatest wonders are often hidden in the simplest things. Marie receives a humble wooden Nutcracker and treasures it immediately, sensing there is something special about him.
Late that night, as the house grows quiet and the Christmas tree glows softly above the Nativity and the precious Nutcracker. Marie returns to the parlor to check on him. In the stillness, the ordinary begins to feel extraordinary. The room awakens, toys come to life, and a battle unfolds between the loyal toy soldiers and the fearful Mouse King, who grows stronger wherever fear takes hold.
Through courage, kindness, and a willingness to stand firm in the light, Marie faces her fears..
When morning arrives, Marie awakens in the quiet parlor once more. The toys sit still, the Nutcracker rests beside her doll Clara, and the house looks just as it did before. Yet something has changed. Marie has learned that the light of Christmas—the light of love, courage, and hope—was never far away. And when we remember that light, it remains with us.

NUTCRACKER IMPORTANT DATES!!!

*AUDITION WORKSHOP - Aug. 27, 10:00-11:00
*AUDITIONS - Sept. 3

PERFORMANCES - Nov. 21, 2026
Drama Plus Wed - 11:00am
Drama Plus Thur- 2:30pm
Company - 6:30pm

*Students who register and are interested in a main role in this production must audition. No one will be cut from the production. All students will be cast! The audition workshop is FREE and all are welcome to attend.

Students cannot miss practice TWO WEEKS before the Performance.

Parents should anticipate helping in some capacity such as concessions, props, set, t-shirts, costumes, etc. Productions are super fun, and they are a giant undertaking! Parents should expect to help to ensure the success of the program. Please be willing to participate in some way (concessions, set, costumes, props, etc.).

Music & Movement

Ages 9 and under · New
When
Wednesdays, 12:15-1:00
Dates
Oct. 7-Nov. 18 (7 weeks)
Cost
$85
Where
D1
Size
Max. 20 per group

Let your little one sing, dance, and discover the joy of creative expression in this playful 7 week Music & Movement class! Designed for children under 9, this once-a-week class blends music, rhythm, imaginative play, and beginner movement in a fun, encouraging environment.
Through upbeat songs, story-based movement, rhythm games, scarves, ribbons, freeze dance, and creative exploration, students will build coordination, confidence, listening skills, and body awareness—all while having a blast.
Perfect for energetic kids who love to move, pretend, and perform, this class serves as a wonderful introduction to theater, dance, and musical storytelling. Parents must stay and be involved (unless given an exception).
Dates - Oct. 7-Nov. 18 (7 weeks)
Ages- 9 and under
Time - 12:15-1:00
Cost - $85
Max. 20 per group
Location - D1

Sing & Dance Princess Party

Ages 5-10 · New
When
Wednesdays, 1:00-1:45
Dates
Oct. 7-Nov. 18 (7 weeks)
Cost
$85
Where
D1
Size
Max. 20 per group

It’s a super fun dance party featuring your favorite Disney princess songs. Build vocal and movement skills in rhythm, tempo, and dynamics. Stretch your imagination and experience the joy of music and physical expression. Each week we will cover attributes of different Princesses and learn songs and minor choreo.

Full description, dates and details

Dates - Oct. 7-Nov. 18 (7 weeks)
Ages- 5-10
Time - 1:00-1:45
Cost - $85
Max. 20 per group
Location - D1

Thursdays

Troubadours Company

Ages 13-16 · New
When
Thursdays, 10:00-12:00
Show
The Nutcracker
Cost
$150
Where
Stage
Size
Max. 25 per group

Drama Plus is a Christ-centered, performance-driven theater group for young actors ages 13-16. Students are ready to grow as storytellers, performers, and collaborators. We will explore the art of theater while learning integral skills like script analysis, storytelling, expanded characterization techniques, and choreography—all in a supportive, faith-based environment. Student leadership in another component in this program. Through teamwork and creativity, participants gain confidence and discover how to use their gifts to glorify God. They will enjoy an elevated theatrical experience. The program culminates in an exciting performance that share inspiring stories with friends, family, and the community.
Ages- 13-16
10:00-12:00
$150
Max. 25 per group.
Location - Stage

Full description, dates and details

NUTCRACKER IMPORTANT DATES!!!

*AUDITION WORKSHOP - Aug. 27, 10:00-11:00
*AUDITIONS - Sept. 3

PERFORMANCES - Nov. 21, 2026
Drama Plus Wed - 11:00am
Drama Plus Thur- 2:30pm
Company - 6:30pm

*Students who register and are interested in a main role in this production must audition. No one will be cut from the production. All students will be cast! The audition workshop is FREE and all are welcome to attend.

Students cannot miss practice TWO WEEKS before the Performance.

Parents should anticipate helping in some capacity such as concessions, props, set, t-shirts, costumes, etc. Productions are super fun, and they are a giant undertaking! Parents should expect to help to ensure the success of the program. Please be willing to participate in some way (concessions, set, costumes, props, etc.).

Drama Plus Thursdays

Ages 10-14
When
Thursdays, 1:00-3:00
Show
The Nutcracker
Cost
$150
Where
Stage
Size
Max. 40 per group

Drama Plus is a Christ-centered, performance-focused theater group for young actors ages 10–14. Students explore the art of theater while learning essential skills like blocking, characterization, and choreography—all in a supportive, faith-based environment. Through teamwork, creativity, and storytelling, participants gain confidence and discover how to use their gifts to glorify God. The program culminates in exciting performances that share inspiring stories with friends, family, and the community.
Ages- 10-14
1:00-3:00
$150
Max. 40 per group.
Location - Stage

Full description, dates and details

The Nutcracker – Synopsis
This lovingly adapted story by Heather Neumann begins on Christmas Eve. The Stahlbaum home is filled with laughter, music, and celebration. Among the guests is the mysterious DROSSELMEIER, who brings unusual gifts. He reminds the children that the greatest wonders are often hidden in the simplest things. Marie receives a humble wooden Nutcracker and treasures it immediately, sensing there is something special about him.
Late that night, as the house grows quiet and the Christmas tree glows softly above the Nativity and the precious Nutcracker. Marie returns to the parlor to check on him. In the stillness, the ordinary begins to feel extraordinary. The room awakens, toys come to life, and a battle unfolds between the loyal toy soldiers and the fearful Mouse King, who grows stronger wherever fear takes hold.
Through courage, kindness, and a willingness to stand firm in the light, Marie faces her fears..
When morning arrives, Marie awakens in the quiet parlor once more. The toys sit still, the Nutcracker rests beside her doll Clara, and the house looks just as it did before. Yet something has changed. Marie has learned that the light of Christmas—the light of love, courage, and hope—was never far away. And when we remember that light, it remains with us.

NUTCRACKER IMPORTANT DATES!!!

*AUDITION WORKSHOP - Aug. 27, 10:00-11:00
*AUDITIONS - Sept. 3

PERFORMANCES - Nov. 21, 2026
Drama Plus Wed - 11:00am
Drama Plus Thur- 2:30pm
Company - 6:30pm

*Students who register and are interested in a main role in this production must audition. No one will be cut from the production. All students will be cast! The audition workshop is FREE and all are welcome to attend.

Students cannot miss practice TWO WEEKS before the Performance.

Parents should anticipate helping in some capacity such as concessions, props, set, t-shirts, costumes, etc. Productions are super fun, and they are a giant undertaking! Parents should expect to help to ensure the success of the program. Please be willing to participate in some way (concessions, set, costumes, props, etc.).

COMING SPRING 2027 - NEWSIES JUNIOR!!!

Musical Theater Dance 1, 2, 3

Ages 10-14 · 14+ · Adults
Teacher
Sarah Strassman
When
Thursdays 3:15-4:00 (ages 10-14); 4:15-5:00 (ages 14+); 5:00-5:45 (adults)
Dates
Sept. 10-Nov. 19
Cost
$100
Where
D2

Three Classes for Three Levels! Thursdays - 3:15-4:00 (ages 10-14); 4:15-5:00 (ages 14+); 5:00-5:45 (adults) "Extended Edition" Step into the spotlight in a once-a-week dance class designed for both kids and adults who love the inspiration of Broadway! Each week, students will learn fun, engaging choreography inspired by popular and beloved musical theater numbers—from classic showstoppers to modern favorites.
This class focuses on storytelling through movement, stage presence, rhythm, and performance quality, all while building confidence and having a blast. Whether you’re brand new to dance or already love the stage, this class offers a welcoming space to move, perform, and bring iconic musical moments to life.
Perfect for performers of all experience levels, Musical Theater Dance is a joyful way to grow in technique, expression, and ensemble skills—one exciting number at a time.

Full description, dates and details

Dates - Sept. 10-Nov. 19
Cost - $100
Location - D2

Theater Squad

Ages 11+
Teacher
Heather Neumann
When
Thursdays, 12:10-1:00 PM
Dates
Oct. 9-Nov. 20
Cost
$100
Size
Max. 20 per class

Step into the world of storytelling, creativity, and performance in our newest Valley Troubadours program—a hands-on theater class designed for students who want to explore every corner of the stage.
In this immersive troupe, students will learn the essential elements of theater and drama while contributing directly to our upcoming production of CHRISTMAS CAROL and THE NUTCRACKER. Through guided instruction and collaborative projects, participants will:
Build confidence in acting, character work, and scene study
Learn and practice choreography used in the show
Take part in set design, props, and costume creation
Explore technical theater, including lights, sound, and backstage operations
Understand how the pieces of a production come together to bring a story to life
Learning more about Charles Dickens and the historical context for this show

Full description, dates and details

This is the perfect class for students who love performing, enjoy hands-on creativity, or want to try something new behind the scenes. No prior experience is required—just curiosity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to work as a team.
Schedule: Oct. 9-Nov. 20 (with potential opportunity to usher in costume at performances)
Max. 20 per class.
Cost: $100
Join us for an inspiring and collaborative journey through theater-making and help bring Christmas Carol and the Nutcracker to the stage!

Public Speaking

Ages 12+
Teacher
Heather Neumann
When
Thursdays, 3:15-4:00
Dates
Sept. 10-Nov. 19
Where
D1
Size
Minimum 5 students, Max. 15

The Ms Frizzle of Public Speaking, Heather Neumann, will lead students through a fun-filled journey on the basics of Public Speaking through Speech (aka Forensics). Students will learn about the different kinds of speaking events and how we use them in everyday life. They will learn how to choose topics, as well as the importance of how to effectively communicate their delivery. Students will be held accountable, stretched, and encouraged. Learning how to become a better communicator is a life skill. Students will have hands-on applications to stretch and grow and learn more about the art of communication. One Semester Class. Students will create and perform speeches and there will be a showcase / presentation at the end of the semester. Minimum 5 students /Max. 15
Sept. 10-Nov. 19
D1

Photography

Ages 13+
Teacher
Rob Buettner
When
Thursdays 5:00-6:00
Cost
$125

Class Description: This 13-week introductory photography course teaches students how to see the world with a storyteller’s eye while building practical skills they can use with any camera, including a smartphone. Through weekly lessons that include guided critiques, demonstrations, and creative challenges, students learn composition, lighting, color, portraiture, visual storytelling, and more. Each class blends technical foundations with curiosity and creative exploration, encouraging students to experiment, problem-solve, and express their own perspective. At the end of the course, students will prepare and exhibit images that showcase their growing abilities to create intentional, meaningful photographs.

Full description, dates and details

Requirements:

• This course is open to all students who are 13+ years old, because photography is for everyone and is one of those skills you can pick up at any stage of life.
• A camera — anything from a smartphone to a super-fancy camera is welcome. If it turns on and takes pictures, it counts. Digital cameras are preferred because weekly assignments come fast, and waiting for film to be developed would turn this into a semester-long cliffhanger.
• A device to submit photos — ideally a smartphone or computer with internet access, but anything that can successfully send images to the instructor for weekly critique works. Thumb drives and carrier pigeons are discouraged but not technically forbidden.
• A device for editing — a smartphone, tablet, Chromebook, laptop, desktop, or that old family computer that wheezes when it opens a browser. If it can run a photo editing app like Snapseed or has built-in editing software, you’re good.
• A willingness to slow down, notice details, and occasionally declare, “Wait… that actually turned out pretty cool!”

Instructor: Rob Buettner
You’ve probably seen Rob at a Troubadours concert — he’s the group’s official photographer and a familiar face in the wings. When he’s not capturing performances, he works as an educator teaching workplace safety. He specializes in making photography feel accessible, whether students are using a smartphone or a camera with more buttons than seems reasonable. His teaching style blends clarity, humor, and the occasional “trust me, this will make sense in a minute.”
Cost: $125

Screenplay Class

Ages 12+
Teacher
Daniel Humbert
When
Thursdays, 4:15pm-5:30pm
Cost
$125.00
Size
Class Limit: 30, 6 teams of 4-5 students

In this class students will work with each other in team’s, along with their teacher, to write, act, film, edit and produce their own original screenplay into a short film.
Students will have the ability to choose from 4 main roles in their project:

Full description, dates and details

1.Writing
2.Acting
3.Filming/camera operation
4.Editing & Production

Students will also be asked to select one of these roles as a secondary role for their team.

After teams are built around these 4 roles, the class will learn the basics of screenplay writing, receive a general overview of cinematography principles, and get training with the basic skills needed to use Adobe Premiere Pro editing software.

Upon graduation from a semester, each student will have gained valuable experience producing a film from an original script and have a video product to start a portfolio that they can add to with the skills they learn during the 12-week class.

Cost: $125.00
Class Limit: 30, 6 teams of 4-5 students
Some requirements:
Laptop or desktop computer (writers, editors).
Purchase/Rental of Adobe Premiere Pro (*just for editors, not required for every student).
Smartphone or camera (filmers, editors).
Great teamwork skills.
Time & availability to invest with their team on their project outside of class on Thursday’s.
A creative mind.
A desire to learn.
Computer skills.
Notebook & pen or pencil.

Amazing possibilities await you as a content creator of the future!

Daniel Humbert: Over 20 years of experience with video production. On-line video editing instructor. Working professional.

Fridays

Troubadours Players

Ages 14+ · Audition
When
Fridays 8:30-12:30; 3:30-evening as performance time nears
Show
A Christmas Carol
Cost
$175 per student

Troubadours Players is an audition-only, Christ-centered theater program for high school students passionate about performance and storytelling. In this advanced, performance-based group, students deepen their understanding of theater through character development, stage movement, choreography, and ensemble work—all while growing in faith and creativity. Together, they strive for excellence on stage and learn to use their talents to glorify God through meaningful and inspiring performances.
Ages 14+
$175 per student

Full description, dates and details

A Christmas Carol

Exploring Drama 1 & 2

Ages 7-11 · 8-12
When
Group 1: 12:45-1:30 (Ages 7-11)
Group 2: 1:30-2:15 (Ages 8-12)
Dates
7 weeks, Oct. 9-Nov. 20
Cost
$85
Size
Max. 25 kids per group

TWO CLASSES!! Max. 25 kids per group. Both classes cover the same content. THEME - Alice in Wonderland - Lessons in Virtues
Step into the whimsical world of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland in this imaginative 8-week drama adventure! Young performers will tumble down the rabbit hole as they explore beloved characters like Alice, the Mad Hatter, the Cheshire Cat, the Queen of Hearts, and more.
Through theatre games, character creation, movement, improvisation, voice work, and mini scene building, students will discover the magic of storytelling on stage. Each week brings a new Wonderland adventure—from chaotic tea parties and royal courtrooms to mysterious riddles and original student-created scenes.
This class is designed for all experience levels and encourages creativity, confidence, collaboration, and big theatrical choices in a fun, welcoming environment. Perfect for boys and girls alike, students will build acting skills while bringing the playful world of Wonderland to life. The session will conclude with a special Wonderland Showcase in D1.
COST: $85

Full description, dates and details

Students explore many aspects of theater including imagination, characterization, set, props, costumes, and choreography.