Park Square Education
Park Square Education offers dynamic, hands-on learning experiences year-round that inspire creativity, build confidence, and foster a lifelong appreciation for the arts. Serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade - as well as college, homeschool, and community groups - our programs include engaging camps and classes, interactive workshops, in-depth artist residencies, and school-day student matinee performances.
Student matinees are a cornerstone of Park Square’s history, with countless alumni and community members sharing that their very first theatre memories began right here. These special weekday performances bring literature, history, and social issues to life on stage, igniting curiosity and sparking conversations that extend far beyond the theatre. Each matinee can include optional post-show talkbacks, and our team works closely with educators to connect productions directly to classroom curriculum.
In 2021, Park Square Education merged with SteppingStone Theatre programs and now operates under the unified Park Square Education brand. Whether in our theatre or in the classroom, we connect young people with professional artists to explore the craft of theatre, develop essential skills, and discover the power of storytelling.
For current offerings - including upcoming student matinees - please use the dropdown menus under “Park Square Education Programs” or click the buttons below.
Mission & Values
Mission
To inspire and support curious, confident young people who use theatre-making to make connections to their community and world.
Values
Generosity- Sharing ideas, space, and self by collaborating with peers and staff respectfully and responsibly.
Mastery- Practicing Theatre Making with experienced and skilled instructors who encourage excellence.
Self-Advocacy- Confidence to use physical, vocal, and emotional expression of self to communicate ideas and needs.
Inspiration- Using personal discoveries, and exploring the world and community to creatively develop stories, ideas, and solutions.
Introduction to theatre through guided dramatic play focusing on creativity, storytelling, and social-emotional learning.
Explore theatre-making styles and develop collaboration, performance skills, and creative problem-solving.
Build foundational theatre and performance skills, including rehearsal processes and critical reflection.
Advanced theatre training focusing on authentic artistic choices, research, and technical production.
Pay-As-You’re-Able (PAYA) Tuition Program
Our Pay-As-You’re-Able (PAYA) tuition initiative is a community commitment to making our programs accessible to all families, regardless of financial circumstance. While the tuition listed reflects the true cost of each program, we encourage families to select the tuition level that works best for them - no questions asked. If additional assistance is needed beyond the available options, please contact us at creativelearning@parksquaretheatre.org.
We also invite you to support the PAYA program through a donation. When registering for camps and classes, you will have the opportunity to add a contribution. If you wish to donate separately, please visit our donation page by clicking the link below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Register My Child for Programs?
Our online registration system, Coursestorm, is accessible through our website by clicking the register here button.
You may also register by phone at 651-291-7005 ext. 105, Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
What Classes and Camps Should I Register My Child For?
Programs are typically organized by grade level: Kindergarten–2nd Grade, 3rd–5th Grade, 6th–8th Grade, and 9th–12th Grade. We generally do not make exceptions for students younger than Kindergarten or outside these grade ranges.
What Should Students Bring to Class?
Please ensure your child brings a water bottle and a healthy snack or lunch, depending on program length. Comfortable, secure clothing and shoes suitable for movement are recommended.
Programs longer than one hour will include scheduled snack and rest breaks.
Is My Child Performing a Play? What Can I Expect from Classes?
Our programs emphasize building theatre skills through games, scene work, collaboration, and creative activities. Some classes may work on scripted pieces or collaboratively create original stories. Others focus on a broad range of theatre and art-making skills.
Certain programs, such as production camps, may culminate in a public performance. End-of-class showcases reflect the learning process and can take various forms.
What If I Need to Cancel or Transfer a Class?
Please refer to our full cancellation policy below. We offer free transfers to future programs. At registration, a non-refundable deposit is required. Cancellation requests made at least two weeks before the program start date will receive a refund of tuition paid minus the deposit.
Can My Child Perform in Mainstage Productions?
Park Square Theatre produces shows that include youth actors. When applicable, we communicate audition opportunities to students and families.
Our programs welcome all skill levels, from first-time performers to seasoned actors.