SUPPORT US · CONTACT · 651-225-9265
About Youth Classes
We believe all young people are Artists. And they need a place that provides them a sense of belonging and opportunity to contribute to their world. When young people make art together, they change themselves, and the world around them, for the better. To that end, we take pride in providing enriching arts experiences for their ideas to be realized. Art making experiences with SteppingStone are rich, sometimes messy, collaborative processes from the first name game through the final sharing for family and friends.We believe students who have access to high-quality Arts Learning opportunities strengthen their ability to hone crucial life-skills in critical thinking, social/emotional development, physical awareness, and a sense of belonging. Our classes, staffed by professional Teaching Artists, create space for youth to explore theatrical skill-sets while experiencing a strong sense of community. We welcome students of all skill and ability levels from Ages 3-18. Join us for some real art-making, real play, and real connection!
“The true purpose of Arts Education is…to create more complete human beings who are critical thinkers, who have curious minds, who can lead productive lives.” – Kelly Pollock, Arts Educator & Executive
Our Core Values
Theatre Learning by Age
THEATRE EXPLORERS
This model is specifically designed with our youngest Theatre Artists in mind. Our Teaching Artists encourage discovery and real-world connections through storytelling and creative play while fostering social, physical, emotional, and cognitive development. With minds, bodies, and voices engaged, Young Artists express themselves through music, creative movement, dramatic play, art-making, and interactive storytelling to enhance skills in language, collaboration, active listening, and community building. During the last 10 minutes of each class, caregivers are invited to join us for a sharing of the activities we investigated that day.
Theatre Learning Looks Like:
- Developing self-expression through play, creative movement, and drama exploration
- Engaging in parallel and/or cooperative play with peers
- Exploring a mixture of structured and open-ended art-based activities
PAGE-TO-STAGE
This class model is specifically designed for preschool & kindergarten Theatre Artists. Our Teaching Artists encourage learning through storytelling and creative play while fostering social, physical, emotional, and cognitive development. With minds, bodies, and voices engaged, Young Artists express themselves through story creation, music, creative movement, dramatic play, and art-making to enhance skills in theatre fundamentals, early literacy, communication, creative thinking, cooperation, active listening, and community building. On the last day of class, family & friends are invited to a sharing of creative drama exercises, original scenes, favorite songs, and artwork.
Theatre Learning Looks Like:
- Developing self-expression through play, creative movement, and drama exploration
- Engaging in guided group drama experiences
- Exploring stories with creative drama strategies like pantomime, narration, and frozen image
CREATE-A-PLAY
Create and perform an original play based on the class theme! Work collaboratively with your peers to develop the story, setting, characters, dialogue, and staging. Throughout the creative class process, engage in games and activities to hone your fundamental theatre skills. Perform your play for family & friends on the final day of class.
Theatre Learning Looks Like:
- Expressing individual ideas that contribute to a larger group concept
- Learning theatre foundations like vocabulary, actor tools, and how to structure a story
- Making physical & vocal choices to develop & practice performance technique
BUILD YOUR SKILLS
Develop your theatre technique in skill-based, workshop-style classes. Explore Acting, Dancing, Singing, Music, Movement, technical skills like Stage Makeup or Puppetry and much more!
Skill-Based Learning Looks Like:
- Learning skill-specific vocabulary & concepts at an age-appropriate level
- Understanding concepts though warm-ups, games, exercises, projects, and exploration
- Scaffolding & building-upon concepts to achieve mastery
EXPLORE PERFORMANCE
Immerse yourself in a Devised Theatre rehearsal process as you create, stage, and perform an original short play or musical! Inspired by the class theme, and under the guidance of your Director, work with your class to develop the show’s setting, characters, dialogue, and staging. While you’re creating the show, study theatrical skill-sets and apply the skills you’ve learned to the final performance. Throughout this process-driven class, engage in rehearsal practices, and theatre games/activities to sharpen your foundational performance skills. On the final day of class, perform your original work for family & friends!
Theatre Learning Looks Like:
- Integrating multiple performance styles & theatre concepts
- Rich collaboration – discussing & contributing ideas to enhance performance
- Director’s notes – observation, suggestion, support, and feedback to introduce and refine performance concepts
- Providing opportunity for intentional group reflection on artistic work
Skill-Based Learning Looks Like:
- Learning skill-specific vocabulary & concepts at an age-appropriate level
- Understanding concepts though warm-ups, games, exercises, projects, and exploration
- Scaffolding & building-upon concepts to achieve mastery
TEEN WORKSHOPS
Do you crave connection with creative and artistic people, like yourself? Are you interested in the Performing Arts and eager to learn all you can about the craft? Whether you’ve got experience or not – we’ve got a class for you! SteppingStone’s Teen Workshops feature process-driven learning, in a specific theatrical skill-set, with classes structured to create strong ensembles and promote a supportive and fun classroom community. Join your peers in an inclusive, safe, and creative learning environment where you will feel comfortable expressing yourself and growing as an Artist. Our Teaching Artists structure classes to minimize competition or comparison. Instead, we challenge everyone to put in the work, stretch outside their comfort zones, and be open-minded in learning new techniques. With this approach, we create strong theatre foundations, a hunger & drive for artistic development, and a network of peers & mentors to help support you in your theatre journey.
Theatre Learning Looks Like:
- Exploring a variety of theatre games and exercises intended to target and refine theatrical skill-sets
- Rich collaboration – contributing, discussing, and integrating ideas into an ensemble-driven Showcase of Work
- Using research, critical analysis, and cultural context to develop and enhance the Showcase of Work
- Director’s notes – observation, suggestion, support, and feedback to introduce and refine performance concepts
- Sharing in leadership responsibilities throughout the class
- Intentional time dedicated to group-reflection and self-reflection on artistic work
Summer Camps
Summer Camps
During the summer session, SteppingStone offers week-long programs from June through August. Camps are offered for all skill/ability levels Ages 3-18.
Facility Tour
Facility tours are by appointment only during regular business hours. If you are interested in a tour of our space, please call 651-225-9265 and ask for Erin Granger. Or email erin@steppingstonetheatre.org.
Registrations
- Please register for the Grade Entering in Fall 2019
- Register online or by phone (651-225-9265)
- SteppingStone cannot make exceptions to admit students into a specific class who are too young/too old for the program
Payments, Discounts, & Scholarships
- Online registration requires full payment by credit card at time of purchase
- All classes require a $50 non-refundable/non-transferable deposit
- Deposit is required to hold a place in the class
- Flexible payment plans are available! Class payment is due in full no later than 2 weeks before the start of class.
- Scholarships are available! Please view our scholarship page for full details and to complete an application.
- Register by phone (651-225-9265) to pay only the deposit, set up a payment plan, pay by check, or pay by cash
- No discounts available
Cancellations
SteppingStone Theatre retains a $50 non-refundable/non-transferable deposit with all class registrations. If SteppingStone cancels a class, you may join a different class, or receive a full refund including your deposit amount. If you cancel a registration, for any reason including illness or emergency, SteppingStone will retain the $50 deposit and other fees as outlined:
- Cancellations up to 2 weeks prior to the start date: Full refund less the $50 deposit
- Cancellation between 1 & 2 weeks prior to the start date: A class credit for the registration amount less the $50 deposit, to be used on a future SteppingStone class within one year of cancellation.
- Cancellation within 1 week prior to the start date or after the start date: No refund. No exceptions.
Statement of Inclusion
We welcome everyone! At SteppingStone we are committed to access and inclusion for all and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender identity, orientation, ability, or economic circumstance. We frequently work with families to meet students’ needs be it social, academic, developmental, or physical. SteppingStone respects students’ gender expression by using preferred pronouns and providing access to gender-neutral facilities. Approximately 20% of our students are on financial assistance as we have ample access to financial support in the form of scholarships & payment plans. If you are in need of assistance or accommodations, please give us a call at 651-225-9265.
Drop-Off & Pick-Up
Please download our comprehensive Summer Camp Drop-Off & Pick-Up Protocol.
No Food Sharing Policy
In order to keep our students safe & healthy, SteppingStone implements a No Food Sharing Policy. This means students are only allowed to consume food/beverages that were provided to them by their caregiver. SteppingStone does not allow students to swap or share food items. Teaching Artists & SteppingStone Staff will not provide students with treats or snacks. Students who wish to bring treats or snacks for their class on special occasion are asked to, instead, provide their class with a small trinket or toy.
Allergy Management
Creative Learning Office Staff and many of our Teaching Artists are trained to administer epi-pens and call 911 in the event of medical emergency. For students with allergies that require epi-pens (or other injectors) we request to be made aware of the severity of the allergy & location of the life-saving medication up-front. Epi-pens should be stored in the student’s backpack or (ideally) with the Teaching Artist at all times.
SteppingStone takes several precautionary measures to avoid crisis including peanut-free zones in each classroom, a no food sharing policy, hand washing after meals & wiping-down surfaces that have come in contact with food. When students with severe allergies are in our classroom, an extensive action-plan is put in place, approved by the caregiver, with the Teaching Artist receiving one-on-one training for how to prevent a reaction and respond if one should occur. Teaching Artists closely monitor food breaks. For our youngest students, snack-breaks are conducted by sitting in a circle with the teacher. The students with allergies will sit next to the teacher so the teacher can closely monitor. Hands are thoroughly washed, and surfaces thoroughly wiped following each break.
We see many students with severe allergies in our camps and work with the caregiver to ensure the student is able to participate fully while staying safe & healthy.
Medical Action Plan
SteppingStone does not have a nurse or medical professional on staff. All Office Staff & many of SteppingStone’s Teaching Artists are trained in CPR, First Aid & the administering of Epi-Pens. All Teaching Artists and Creative Learning Staff receive annual training on protocol for responding to medical emergencies. In the event of a medical emergency, SteppingStone will call 911 and notify caregivers. SteppingStone is immediately next-door to a fire department and trained professionals can be on-site in a matter of minutes. Caregivers are responsible for any/all expenses incurred.
For students who require daily doses of medication, Creative Learning Staff cannot administer medication without an authorized note. If a student is feeling unwell or is behaving in an a-typical manner, a caregiver will be notified and the student will be sent home. SteppingStone will not administer over-the-counter pain relievers or other medications if a student begins to feel unwell, even at the request of the caregiver. Caregivers are welcome to stop-by our theatre and administer any medications to their student in-person.
Illness Policy
Please download our comprehensive Illness Policy
Emergency Action Plan
Please download our comprehensive Emergency Action Plan
Student Behavior Action Plan
Please download our comprehensive Behavior Action Plan
Supervision
We believe student safety and security is critically important. We take attendance at the beginning of each class and call to check-in with families if a student is absent. During transitions out of the classroom, head-counts are taken along with occasional role-calls. During class, periodic head-counts are taken. Lunch and recess are closely monitored by at least 2 adult SteppingStone staff. All adults who supervise students are required to know how many students are in their care at all times. During student pick-up, SteppingStone implements a supervised check-out process. SteppingStone Staff & Teaching Artists are prohibited from being one-on-one with students in any non-public space. SteppingStone Teaching Artists & Staff are prohibited from contacting students or families outside of SteppingStone and/or eliciting friendships with students and/or their families.
Pronouns
At SteppingStone, we respect each student’s gender identity and refer to each student by their preferred pronoun and name.
Restrooms
SteppingStone has gendered, non-gendered, accessible, and single-stall restrooms. Students are allowed to use the restroom that best suits their gender identity or use the single-stall restroom for additional privacy or comfort. Classes take several group restroom breaks during the day. During group restroom breaks, teachers monitor for hand washing and disruptive/inappropriate behavior. Students are allowed to use the restroom, as needed, throughout the day.
Electronic Device & Toy Policy
Students under Grade 7 are not allowed to use their electronic devises or toys during class time, snack, lunch, or recess (with the exception of e-readers) unless prescribed by a medical professional. Students in Grades 7-12 may be permitted to use electronic devices as educational tools, or recreationally during break-times, provided use does not become distracting or inappropriate. Students in Grades 7-12 may also be permitted to use their phone to contact their caregiver at the beginning or end of the day only. SteppingStone is not liable for the exchange of contact information via devices or for lost, stolen, damaged, or destroyed devices and toys. SteppingStone reserves the right to confiscate devices or toys that have become distracting or inappropriate and return them at the end of the day. If devices or toys are confiscated, we request the item(s) not return to class.
For all enrolled, if you would like to reach your student during class hours, please call our main line at 651-225-9265. Students wishing to speak with their caregiver during class hours will be instructed to call from our office phone.
Media Release & Information Sharing Policy
SteppingStone will never share your information with outside parties. Our website & database are securely encrypted and credit card information is not kept on file.
SteppingStone Theatre regularly photographs and records its programs and participants to document its programs for its funders and to promote programs in the community. When such photographs or videos are used in brochures, advertisements, or other promotions, children are not identified by name. When completing paperwork for class, you have the ability to opt-out of this policy.
Where are you located?
55 North Victoria Street, St. Paul, MN 55104.
We’re two blocks off of Summit Ave, next to Mitchell Hamline School of Law.
What are your class sizes?
Theatre Explorers (Ages 3-4) = 10 max
Page-to-Stage (Ages 4-6) = 15 max
Create-a-Play & Build Your Skills (Grades 1-3) = 18 max
Explore Performance (Grades 4-6) = 20 max
Teen Workshops (Grades 7-12) = 25 max
Many of our classes see about 3/4 capacity. Very popular themes will reach maximum capacity.
How many Teachers are in the classroom?
For each class, there are a minimum of 2 adults in the classroom. One Teaching Artist and one Teaching Assistant. Our Teaching Artists are highly trained, experienced educators & arts professionals. Our Teaching Assistants are trained and experienced arts professionals & educators who are starting-out in their career. All adults are annually background checked.
Will there be a performance at the end of class?
All classes will have a Sharing on the final day of class. Because our programs are process-driven, we primarily focus on the learning that happens in the classroom each day. Sharings are not neatly polished performances, but rather an opportunity to showcases the hard work student have accomplished throughout their class time. Sharings may include favorite games, exercises, scenes or short student-generated plays. To learn more about specific performance/sharing content & times, please select the class you’d like to register for on our Summer or School Year registration page.
Will students be performing on stage?
Our classes are process-driven and focus on the overall learning experience. Classes may perform in the classroom, rehearsal hall, or on one of our two stages; depending on space scheduling for the week. Typically, our PreK students perform in the classroom, and our Grades 1-12 students perform on either our small or large stage.
How can my student perform in a SteppingStone Mainstage show?
SteppingStone typically casts students ages 14-18 in our Mainstage productions. Occasionally, we will cast students as young as 12. Casting is conducted through an audition process where not all students will be cast. We typically see between 50-100 auditionees and have space to cast approximately 20 students. We highly encourage students to continue auditioning if they are not immediately cast. Our auditions are designed to be non-intimidating and beginner-friendly. We welcome all skill & ability levels to try-out. To learn more about our auditions please see our Auditions page or check Minnesota Playlist.
Too young to audition? Register for our classes and build the skills you need to be successful when your time comes!
Are you audition-aged but not quite ready for the audition competition? Check-out our LEAP program!
Can we audit a class?
Auditing a class by parent, caregiver, or student is not available.
Can we observe/sit-in on class?
Parents, caregivers, family members (including siblings), and friends are not able to observe/sit-in on class. All are welcome to wait in our Lobby during class. We have comfy chairs, wifi, and coffee.
Should I register my student for the grade they recently completed or their rising grade?
For Summer classes, register your student for the grade they will be ENTERING in the fall.
Can I register my student for a class they are too young/old for?
We understand that some students thrive in an environment including students either younger or older than their peer group. However our age ranges are firm and we cannot make exceptions.
What should my student wear to class?
Please send your student in comfortable clothing that allows for movement (nothing too restrictive or too baggy) and closed toe shoes. Flip-flops, dress shoes, or shoes without backs are discouraged for safety reasons. Students will be spending time outdoors, participating in rigorous physical activity, and working on messy art projects. Clothing may get dirty, stained, or torn. All art products we use are washable. SteppingStone is not responsible for damaged attire.
What should my student bring to class?
Half-day students: pack a snack & water bottle
Full-day students: pack 2 snacks, a lunch, and water bottle.
SteppingStone does not have refrigerator, microwave, or vending machine access.
A change of clothes or layers is recommended depending on student age and/or weather conditions. A backpack is recommended to easily store belongings. Students are responsible for keeping track of their personal items. SteppingStone has a lost & found. Please call if you have misplaced something.
How early can I drop-off? How late can I pick-up?
Students can be dropped-off for class no earlier than 15 minutes before class start time. Students can be picked-up for class no later than 15 minutes after class end time. Any student dropped-off/picked-up outside this 15-minute window will be considered “Extended Care” and will be charged as such ($50). No exceptions. Consider registering for our Extended Care Program. It is a great peace-of-mind option that allows up to 3 hours of additional supervision each day.
Where do I park?
SteppingStone does not have a patron parking lot. There are two Accessible parking spaces next to our Accessible Entrance for those who need it. Free street parking is available on all the streets surrounding our building (including Victoria, Holly, Ashland, and Portland). Parking is typically easy to find. Allow yourself an extra 5 minutes to find parking and walk to our theatre. Please be mindful of parking signs & restrictions. SteppingStone is not responsible for ticketed vehicles. Parking or idling in the alleyway/staff lot is prohibited.
Is your building Accessible?
Yes! With the exception of our Mainstage’s upper balcony, all parts of our building are Accessible by elevator. Please inquire about specific accommodations. We frequently make accessibility accommodations to ensure all students can participate fully in class and all audience attendees can enjoy the class’ final Sharing.
Extended Care Program
Our Extended Care Program provides families with flexibility and enriching care options beyond regular program hours. Open to all students in Grades 1-12, Before Care & After Care services allow for an additional three hours of engaging supervision of your student each day. Before Care services begin at 7:15am and After Care services extend to 6:00pm. Our Extended Care Teaching Artists provide students with structured activities, free-play, and down-time, based on student-driven interests.
About Extended Care
- Registration is a flat-rate of $50/student/week. The price includes Before & After Care services. Use the service as much or as little as you need. It’s a great peace-of-mind purchase for working parents who travel cross-metro at peak commute times. We do not offer a day-rate option.
- Any drop-off before 8:15am or pick-up after 4:15pm will be considered “Extended Care” and will be charged as such. No exceptions.
- Extended Care can be purchased online at the time of registration, or during the camp week.
- Students may be dropped-off or picked-up anytime during care hours.
- In accordance with our No Food Sharing Policy, SteppingStone does not provide snacks to students. Please send your student with an additional snack for After Care.
- We do not provide After Care services for Morning Only students.
School Year Classes
School Year Classes
During the school year, SteppingStone offers classes during Fall, Winter, and Spring Terms. Programs are offered for all skill & ability levels from ages 18 months to 18 years. Classes are held on Saturdays, during the evenings, during the weekday (for PreK & Homeschool) and on school release days.
Facility Tour
Facility tours are by appointment only during regular business hours. If you are interested in a tour of our space, please call 651-225-9265 and ask for Erin Granger. Or email erin@steppingstonetheatre.org.
Registrations
- Please register for classes in your student’s current grade or age-range
- Register online or by phone (651-225-9265)
- SteppingStone cannot make exceptions to admit students into a specific class who are too young/too old for the program
Payments, Discounts, & Scholarships
- Online registration requires full payment by credit card at time of purchase
- All classes require a $50 non-refundable/non-transferable deposit
- Deposit is required to hold a place in the class
- Flexible payment plans are available! Class payment is due in full no later than 2 weeks before the start of class.
- Scholarships are available! Please view our scholarship page for full details and to complete an application.
- Register by phone (651-225-9265) to pay only the deposit, set up a payment plan, pay by check, or pay by cash
- No discounts available
Cancellations
SteppingStone Theatre retains a $50 non-refundable/non-transferable deposit with all class registrations. If SteppingStone cancels a class, you may join a different class, or receive a full refund including your deposit amount. If you cancel a registration, for any reason including illness or emergency, SteppingStone will retain the $50 deposit and other fees as outlined:
- Cancellations up to 2 weeks prior to the start date: Full refund less the $50 deposit
- Cancellation between 1 & 2 weeks prior to the start date: A class credit for the registration amount less the $50 deposit, to be used on a future SteppingStone class within one year of cancellation.
- Cancellation within 1 week prior to the start date or after the start date: No refund. No exceptions.
Statement of Inclusion
We welcome everyone! At SteppingStone we are committed to access and inclusion for all and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender identity, orientation, ability, or economic circumstance. We frequently work with families to meet students’ needs be it social, academic, developmental, or physical. SteppingStone respects students’ gender expression by using preferred pronouns and providing access to gender-neutral facilities. Approximately 20% of our students are on financial assistance as we have ample access to financial support in the form of scholarships & payment plans. If you are in need of assistance or accommodations, please give us a call at 651-225-9265.
Drop-Off & Pick-Up
Please download our comprehensive School Year Drop-Off & Pick-Up Protocol.
No Food Sharing Policy
In order to keep our students safe & healthy, SteppingStone implements a No Food Sharing Policy. This means students are only allowed to consume food/beverages that were provided to them by their caregiver. SteppingStone does not allow students to swap or share food items. Teaching Artists & SteppingStone Staff will not provide students with treats or snacks. Students who wish to bring treats or snacks for their class on special occasion are asked to, instead, provide their class with a small trinket or toy.
Allergy Management
Creative Learning Office Staff and many of our Teaching Artists are trained to administer epi-pens and call 911 in the event of medical emergency. For students with allergies that require epi-pens (or other injectors) we request to be made aware of the severity of the allergy & location of the life-saving medication up-front. Epi-pens should be stored in the student’s backpack or (ideally) with the Teaching Artist at all times.
SteppingStone takes several precautionary measures to avoid crisis including peanut-free zones in each classroom, a no food sharing policy, hand washing after meals & wiping-down surfaces that have come in contact with food. When students with severe allergies are in our classroom, an extensive action-plan is put in place, approved by the caregiver, with the Teaching Artist receiving one-on-one training for how to prevent a reaction and respond if one should occur. Teaching Artists closely monitor food breaks. For our youngest students, snack-breaks are conducted by sitting in a circle with the teacher. The students with allergies will sit next to the teacher so the teacher can closely monitor. Hands are thoroughly washed, and surfaces thoroughly wiped following each break.
We see many students with severe allergies in our camps and work with the caregiver to ensure the student is able to participate fully while staying safe & healthy.
Medical Action Plan
SteppingStone does not have a nurse or medical professional on staff. All Office Staff & many of SteppingStone’s Teaching Artists are trained in CPR, First Aid & the administering of Epi-Pens. All Teaching Artists and Creative Learning Staff receive annual training on protocol for responding to medical emergencies. In the event of a medical emergency, SteppingStone will call 911 and notify caregivers. SteppingStone is immediately next-door to a fire department and trained professionals can be on-site in a matter of minutes. Caregivers are responsible for any/all expenses incurred.
For students who require daily doses of medication, Creative Learning Staff cannot administer medication without an authorized note. If a student is feeling unwell or is behaving in an a-typical manner, a caregiver will be notified and the student will be sent home. SteppingStone will not administer over-the-counter pain relievers or other medications if a student begins to feel unwell, even at the request of the caregiver. Caregivers are welcome to stop-by our theatre and administer any medications to their student in-person.
Illness Policy
Please download our comprehensive Illness Policy
Emergency Action Plan
Please download our comprehensive Emergency Action Plan
Student Behavior Action Plan
Please download our comprehensive Behavior Action Plan
Supervision
We believe student safety and security is critically important. We take attendance at the beginning of each class and call to check-in with families if a student is absent. During transitions out of the classroom, head-counts are taken along with occasional role-calls. During class, periodic head-counts are taken. Lunch and recess are closely monitored by at least 2 adult SteppingStone staff. All adults who supervise students are required to know how many students are in their care at all times. During student pick-up, SteppingStone implements a supervised check-out process. SteppingStone Staff & Teaching Artists are prohibited from being one-on-one with students in any non-public space. SteppingStone Teaching Artists & Staff are prohibited from contacting students or families outside of SteppingStone and/or eliciting friendships with students and/or their families.
Pronouns
At SteppingStone, we respect each student’s gender identity and refer to each student by their preferred pronoun and name.
Restrooms
SteppingStone has gendered, non-gendered, accessible, and single-stall restrooms. Students are allowed to use the restroom that best suits their gender identity or use the single-stall restroom for additional privacy or comfort. Classes take several group restroom breaks during the day. During group restroom breaks, teachers monitor for hand washing and disruptive/inappropriate behavior. Students are allowed to use the restroom, as needed, throughout the day.
Electronic Device & Toy Policy
Students under Grade 7 are not allowed to use their electronic devises or toys during class time, snack, lunch, or recess (with the exception of e-readers) unless prescribed by a medical professional. Students in Grades 7-12 may be permitted to use electronic devices as educational tools, or recreationally during break-times, provided use does not become distracting or inappropriate. Students in Grades 7-12 may also be permitted to use their phone to contact their caregiver at the beginning or end of the day only. SteppingStone is not liable for the exchange of contact information via devices or for lost, stolen, damaged, or destroyed devices and toys. SteppingStone reserves the right to confiscate devices or toys that have become distracting or inappropriate and return them at the end of the day. If devices or toys are confiscated, we request the item(s) not return to class.
For all enrolled, if you would like to reach your student during class hours, please call our main line at 651-225-9265. Students wishing to speak with their caregiver during class hours will be instructed to call from our office phone.
Media Release & Information Sharing Policy
SteppingStone will never share your information with outside parties. Our website & database are securely encrypted and credit card information is not kept on file.
SteppingStone Theatre regularly photographs and records its programs and participants to document its programs for its funders and to promote programs in the community. When such photographs or videos are used in brochures, advertisements, or other promotions, children are not identified by name. When completing paperwork for class, you have the ability to opt-out of this policy.
Where are you located?
55 North Victoria Street, St. Paul, MN 55104.
We’re two blocks off of Summit Ave, next to Mitchell Hamline School of Law.
What are your class sizes?
Theatre Explorers (Ages 3-4) = 10 max
Page-to-Stage (Ages 4-6) = 15 max
Create-a-Play & Build Your Skills (Grades 1-3) = 18 max
Explore Performance (Grades 4-6) = 20 max
Teen Workshops (Grades 7-12) = 25 max
Many of our classes see about 3/4 capacity. Very popular themes will reach maximum capacity.
How many Teachers are in the classroom?
Our classes are staffed by professional Teaching Artists who are highly trained, experienced educators & arts professionals. For Grades 1-12 we typically have one Teaching Artist and one floating Classroom Assistant. For our PreK & Kindergarten classes, we typically have one Teaching Artist and one Teaching Assistant on each class. All adults who interact with our students are annually background checked.
Will there be a performance at the end of class?
All classes will have a Sharing on the final day of class. Because our programs are process-driven, we primarily focus on the learning that happens in the classroom each day. Sharings are not neatly polished performances, but rather an opportunity to showcases the hard work student have accomplished throughout their class time. Sharings may include favorite games, exercises, scenes or short student-generated plays. To learn more about specific performance/sharing content & times, please select the class you’d like to register for on our Summer or School Year registration page.
Will students be performing on stage?
Our classes are process-driven and focus on the overall learning experience. Classes may perform in the classroom, rehearsal hall, or on one of our two stages; depending on space scheduling for the week. Typically, our PreK students perform in the classroom, and our Grades 1-12 students perform on either our small or large stage.
How can my student perform in a SteppingStone Mainstage show?
SteppingStone typically casts students ages 14-18 in our Mainstage productions. Occasionally, we will cast students as young as 12. Casting is conducted through an audition process where not all students will be cast. We typically see between 50-100 auditionees and have space to cast approximately 20 students. We highly encourage students to continue auditioning if they are not immediately cast. Our auditions are designed to be non-intimidating and beginner-friendly. We welcome all skill & ability levels to try-out. To learn more about our auditions please see our Auditions page or check Minnesota Playlist.
Too young to audition? Register for our classes and build the skills you need to be successful when your time comes!
Are you audition-aged but not quite ready for the audition competition? Check-out our LEAP program!
Can we audit a class?
Auditing a class by parent, caregiver, or student is not available.
Can we observe/sit-in on class?
Parents, caregivers, family members (including siblings), and friends are not able to observe/sit-in on class. All are welcome to wait in our Lobby during class. We have comfy chairs, wifi, and coffee.
What class should I register for?
For classes during the school year, please register for the class(es) available in your student’s CURRENT grade-level or age-range.
Can I register my student for a class they are too young/old for?
We understand that some students thrive in an environment including students either younger or older than their peer group. However our age ranges are firm and we cannot make exceptions.
What should my student wear to class?
Please send your student in comfortable clothing that allows for movement (nothing too restrictive or too baggy) and closed toe shoes. Flip-flops, dress shoes, or shoes without backs are discouraged for safety reasons. Students will be participating in rigorous physical activity, and working on messy art projects. Clothing may get dirty, stained, or torn. All art products we use are washable. SteppingStone is not responsible for damaged attire.
What should my student bring to class?
partial-day classes: pack a snack & water bottle
Full-day classes: pack 2 snacks, a lunch, and water bottle.
SteppingStone does not have refrigerator, microwave, or vending machine access.
A change of clothes or layers is recommended depending on student age and/or weather conditions. A backpack is recommended to easily store belongings. Students are responsible for keeping track of their personal items. SteppingStone has a lost & found. Please call if you have misplaced something.
How early can I drop-off? How late can I pick-up?
Students can be dropped-off for class no earlier than 15 minutes before class start time. Students can be picked-up for class no later than 15 minutes after class end time. Any student dropped-off/picked-up outside this 15-minute window will be considered “Extended Care” and will be charged as such ($1 for every minute over time). No exceptions. Our school year classes do not have an Extended Care option.
Where do I park?
SteppingStone does not have a patron parking lot. There are two Accessible parking spaces next to our Accessible Entrance for those who need it. Free street parking is available on all the streets surrounding our building (including Victoria, Holly, Ashland, and Portland). Parking is typically easy to find. Allow yourself an extra 5 minutes to find parking and walk to our theatre. Please be mindful of parking signs & restrictions. SteppingStone is not responsible for ticketed vehicles. Parking or idling in the alleyway/staff lot is prohibited.
Is your building Accessible?
Yes! With the exception of our Mainstage’s upper balcony, all parts of our building are Accessible by elevator. Please inquire about specific accommodations. We frequently make accessibility accommodations to ensure all students can participate fully in class and all audience attendees can enjoy the class’ final Sharing.
SteppingStone does not offer Extended Care for School Year Classes.