Center Stage Academy - Youth Classes
Center Stage Academy Youth Classes
Center Stage Academy classes are an excellent opportunity for students of all ages to jump into the joy of the arts! Whether it’s performing arts, vocal performance, or visual arts, there is something for everyone! Come perform a Broadway classic, work with your peers to create a show of your own or dabble in a new painting technique – all experience levels are welcome! It is our goal to instill the importance of the arts, while fostering the life skills of self-confidence, responsibility, teamwork, critical thinking, interpersonal communication, problem solving, empathy, and more. Join us at the Center for the Arts in downtown Murfreesboro for classes full of fun!
Scholarships are available! Apply with registration.
CSA: Summer Break Camp
"Awakening the stage"
Awakening the Stage is a full-day spring break theatre camp where young artists awaken a sleeping stage by creating their own original show. Through acting, movement, and storytelling, campers bring characters and scenes to life, culminating in a magical final performance at the end of the week that celebrates imagination, collaboration, and the joy of theatre
Spring 2026
Production Classes
Our Production Classes are for everyone from beginners to advanced performers. Our goal is developing and enhancing theatrical performance through instruction in acting, music/voice, and movement/dance. Production Classes will culminate with a full production or showcase at the end of the session.
We offer both after school and during the day homeschool classes!
After School Production Classes
Preschool
Preschool
Cost: $175 or $30/class
Introduce your little one to the magic of theatre! This fun, interactive class is designed for preschoolers (and caregivers!) to explore imagination, music, and movement in a playful, supportive environment.
| Class Date | Class Days | Class Time | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|
Feb 7- Mar 28 |
Saturday |
9:15a-10:00a |
Sydney Burdine |
*The Center for the Arts is closed for all national federal holidays during the year.
*The Center for the Arts’ Education Department follows Murfreesboro City and Rutherford County Schools Spring Break schedules.
Grades K-2 (Showcase): Elementary One Performers
Elementary One
Grades K-2
Cost: $250
Our Elementary One Performers program is a creative drama experience using play to teach the basics of being onstage. Our K-2 students can expect games, songs, creative movement, dance, and performance basics culminating in an end of camp showcase.
| Class Date | Class Days | Class Time | Show Date | Show Time | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Feb 7 – Mar 28 |
Saturday |
10:30a-11:30a |
Mar 28 |
12:15p |
Darcy Pingel |
*The Center for the Arts is closed for all national federal holidays during the year.
*The Center for the Arts’ Education Department follows Murfreesboro City and Rutherford County Schools Spring Break schedules.
Grades 3-12 (Afterschool Classes): The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe
The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe
Grades 3-12
Cost: $395
Step through the wardrobe and into the magical world of Narnia in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Students will bring C.S. Lewis’s timeless tale to life while building confidence, creativity, and stage skills that last a lifetime. Whether your student is stepping onto the stage for the first time or already has performing experience, they’ll find inspiration, friendship, and confidence in this unforgettable journey through Narnia.
| Class Date | Class Days | Class Time | Show Date | Show Time | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Feb 9 – April 24 |
Mon/Wed |
4:00p – 6:00p | April 22nd April 25th | 6:30pm 2pm | Cat Glidwell, Seth Pratt, and Anna Vogler |
Feb 7 – April 11 |
Saturday |
9:00a-12:00p |
April 29th & 30th |
6:30p | Cat Glidwell, Seth Pratt, and Anna Vogler |
*The Center for the Arts is closed for all national federal holidays during the year.
*The Center for the Arts’ Education Department follows Murfreesboro City and Rutherford County Schools Spring Break schedules.
Grades 3-12 (Afterschool Classes): Spongebob: The Musical Jr.
Spongebob: The Musical Jr.
Grades 3-12
Cost: $395
Get ready to dive under the sea with Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob the Musical Jr! Whether a student is brand new to the stage or already a seasoned performer, students grades 3rd-12th will have a chance to shine in this fully staged musical production. Join us for a splashy, creative adventure where friendship, teamwork, and positivity rule the reef!
| Class Date | Class Days | Class Time | Show Date | Show Time | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Feb 10- April 30 |
Tues/Thurs |
4:30p-6:30p |
Apr 23 || Apr 24 |
6:30p | Q Rankins, Amy Zerner. and Sarah Robinson |
*The Center for the Arts is closed for all national federal holidays during the year.
*The Center for the Arts’ Education Department follows Murfreesboro City and Rutherford County Schools Spring Break schedules.
Grades 5-12 (Afterschool Classes): Level Up
Level Up Classes
Grades 6-12
| Class | Class Date | Class Days | Class Time | Instructor | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Auditioning 101 |
Jan 14 – Jan 29 |
Tues/Thurs |
4:00p – 6:00p |
Cat Glidwell |
$160 |
Music Theatre Dance Basics |
Feb 23 – Apr 27 |
Monday |
5:30p – 6:30p |
Q Rankins |
$220 |
Ready to take your performance to the next level? Level Up: Auditioning 101 is designed for students in grades 6–12 who want to gain confidence, polish their skills, and learn what it takes to shine in any audition room! In this focused, hands-on class, students will explore the full audition process—from preparation to performance—while developing:
Acting Technique – Learn how to make strong, authentic choices in monologues, cold readings, and scenes.
Vocal & Musical Theatre Skills – Select and perform audition songs that showcase your vocal range and character style.
Movement & Presence – Build confidence in how you walk into a room, connect with your material, and command attention.
Audition Etiquette & Preparation – Discover how to choose the right material, handle nerves, and make a memorable impression.
Students will receive personalized feedback, tips from experienced instructors, and the tools to ace auditions for school plays, community theatre, and beyond! Perfect for both developing performers and experienced actors ready to “level up” their audition game.
Step, kick, and sparkle your way into confidence with Level Up: Musical Theatre Dance Basics! This full-semester class is designed for students in grades 6–12 who want to strengthen their dance foundation while learning the movement styles that bring Broadway to life. Through upbeat, technique-focused instruction, students will explore:
Musical Theatre Styles – From classic Broadway jazz to modern movement, learn choreography inspired by your favorite shows.
Dance Fundamentals – Build skills in coordination, rhythm, posture, and performance quality—no prior dance experience required!
Storytelling Through Movement – Understand how choreography expresses character, emotion, and storytelling on stage.
Performance Technique – Develop confidence, stage presence, and the ability to blend dance seamlessly with acting and music.
The semester will culminate in a guest performance during the Vocal Academy Recitals, giving students the chance to showcase their new skills and celebrate their growth with family and friends!
*The Center for the Arts is closed for all national federal holidays during the year.
*The Center for the Arts’ Education Department follows Murfreesboro City and Rutherford County Schools Spring Break schedules.
Homeschool Day Production Classes
Homeschool Production Class: Aristocats! Kids
Aristocats! Kids
Grades K-12
Cost: $325
Everybody wants to be a cat! Join us in bringing Paris to life in Aristocats! Kids, a jazzy, fun-filled musical adventure based on the beloved Disney classic. Whether your student is brand new to the stage or a confident performer, this program offers a supportive, creative environment for everyone to shine.
| Class Dates | Class Days | Class Time | Show Dates | Show Times | Instructor | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Feb 5 – Apr 23 |
Thursday |
12:00p-2:00p | April 23rd April 25th | 2pm 6:30pm | Cat Glidwell and Miranda Reed | ||
Homeschool Skills Class (Level Up)
Character Development: Who am I?
Grades 5-12
Cost: $225 (or $475 Bundle)
Designed especially for homeschool students, this exciting Level Up: Theatre Skills Class offers a comprehensive introduction to the performing arts — combining acting, dance, and private voice training into one creative, confidence-building experience! This well-rounded program gives homeschool performers the chance to learn and grow as performers in a supportive environment that nurtures talent at every level. Whether your student is stepping on stage for the first time or looking to enhance their existing skills, this class is the perfect way to level up their artistry!
| Class Dates | Class Days | Class Time | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|
Feb 5 – Apr 23 |
Thursday |
9:30a-11:30a | Cat Glidwell, Q Rankins, and Haylee Casper |
Visual Arts
Intro to Art Skills (Grades K–4)
Intro to Art Skills (Grades K–4)
Cost: $325
In this fun and hands-on visual arts class, students explore the basics of art through drawing, painting, collage, and simple sculpture. Young artists will learn foundational skills such as using lines, shapes, colors, and textures while experimenting with a variety of materials and tools. The class encourages creativity, problem-solving, and self-expression in a supportive and playful environment, helping students build confidence and a love for making art.
| Class Dates | Class Days | Class Time | Gallery | Instructor | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Feb 4 – Mar 25 |
Wednesday |
4:00p – 5:30p |
April 22nd |
Katie Hestla | ||
3D Art & Design (Grades 5–12)
3D Art & Design (Grades 5–12)
Cost: $325
This class introduces students to the fundamentals of three-dimensional art and design through hands-on projects. Students will explore form, space, structure, and balance while working with materials such as clay, cardboard, wire, found objects, and mixed media. Emphasis is placed on creative problem-solving, craftsmanship, and design thinking as students develop both functional and sculptural works. The course encourages experimentation, critical thinking, and personal expression across a range of skill levels.
| Class Dates | Class Days | Class Time | Gallery | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Feb 4 – Mar 25 |
Wednesday |
6:00p – 7:30p |
April 22nd |
Katie Hestla |
Advanced Photography (Grades 6–12)
Advanced Photography (Grades 6–12)
Cost: $325
This advanced course builds on foundational photography skills and is designed for students who have completed Beginner Photography or have equivalent experience. Students will refine their technical abilities while exploring advanced concepts such as manual camera controls, lighting, composition, visual storytelling, and photo editing. Through creative projects, critiques, and experimentation, students will develop a personal photographic style and a deeper understanding of photography as an art form. Emphasis is placed on intentional design, creative expression, and thoughtful presentation of work.
- 50″ Portable Camera Mount Tripod Stand (Amazon.com : Amazon Basics 50-inch Lightweight Portable Camera Mount Tripod Stand with Bag, for Travel Photography, Champagne : Electronics)
- Godox iT20 Auto Mini Flash (Amazon.com : Godox iT20 S IT20S TTL Auto Mini Flash for Sony ZV-1 / ZV-E10 / ZV-1 II TTL/Manual Modes with USB-C Rechargeable 300mAh Battery,1.5s Recycle,Hot Shoe Triggering for Sony A7C A6400 A6000 (Black) : Electronics)
| Class Dates | Class Days | Class Time | Gallery | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Mar 2nd – Apr 8th |
Mon/Wed |
4:15p – 6:15p |
April 22nd |
Haydin Oeschle |
Visual Arts: K-5th
Visual Arts: K-5th
Grades K-5th
Cost: $325
In the Photography class, we will be learning how to develop a creative eye and appreciation for the art of photography. Students will learn about composition and light to make images with emotion and unique perspective. Students are not required to have a specific type of equipment. Anything from a cell phone camera, to a point and shoot, or a DSLR are acceptable. Each student’s work will be highlighted in a weekend gallery display and celebrated with a reception open to family and friends.
| Class Dates | Class Days | Class Time | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|
Feb 11 – April 15 |
Wednesdays |
4:00p – 6:00p |
Sophia |
*The Center for the Arts’ Education Department follows Murfreesboro City and Rutherford County Schools Fall Break schedules (Oct 6-10). This class will include a closure on Wednesday, October 8th, 2025, for Fall Break.
Visual Arts: 6th-12th
Photography
Grades 6-12
Cost: $325
In the Photography class, we will be learning how to develop a creative eye and appreciation for the art of photography. Students will learn about composition and light to make images with emotion and unique perspective. Students are not required to have a specific type of equipment. Anything from a cell phone camera, to a point and shoot, or a DSLR are acceptable. Each student’s work will be highlighted in a weekend gallery display and celebrated with a reception open to family and friends.
| Class Dates | Class Days | Class Time | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|
Feb 11 – April 15 |
Tuesdays |
4:00p – 6:00p |
Katie |
*The Center for the Arts’ Education Department follows Murfreesboro City and Rutherford County Schools Fall Break schedules (Oct 6-10). This class will include a closure on Wednesday, October 8th, 2025, for Fall Break.
Beginner Photography: 6th-12th
Beginner Photography
Grades 6-12
Cost: $325
In the Photography class, we will be learning how to develop a creative eye and appreciation for the art of photography. Students will learn about composition and light to make images with emotion and unique perspective. Students are not required to have a specific type of equipment. Anything from a cell phone camera, to a point and shoot, or a DSLR are acceptable. Each student’s work will be highlighted in a weekend gallery display and celebrated with a reception open to family and friends.
| Class Dates | Class Days | Class Time | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|
Sept 3 – Nov 5 |
Wednesdays |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
Haydin Oechsle |
*The Center for the Arts’ Education Department follows Murfreesboro City and Rutherford County Schools Fall Break schedules (Oct 6-10). This class will include a closure on Wednesday, October 8th, 2025, for Fall Break.
Advanced Photography: 6th-12th
Photography
Grades 6-12
Cost: $325
In the Photography class, we will be learning how to develop a creative eye and appreciation for the art of photography. Students will learn about composition and light to make images with emotion and unique perspective. Students are not required to have a specific type of equipment. Anything from a cell phone camera, to a point and shoot, or a DSLR are acceptable. Each student’s work will be highlighted in a weekend gallery display and celebrated with a reception open to family and friends.
| Class Dates | Class Days | Class Time | Instructor |
|---|---|---|---|
Sept 3 – Nov 5 |
Wednesdays |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
Haydin Oechsle |
*The Center for the Arts’ Education Department follows Murfreesboro City and Rutherford County Schools Fall Break schedules (Oct 6-10). This class will include a closure on Wednesday, October 8th, 2025, for Fall Break.
Center Stage Academy Closure Policy
The Center for the Arts is closed on all National Holidays. Weather related closures are based on Rutherford County and Murfreesboro City Schools. If either school system is closed due to inclement weather, all educational programming is cancelled. For individual lessons please contact your teacher directly.