Programs & Classes
Youth ProgramsThe Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is a full service arts conservatory that provides quality arts education in music, theatre, dance and visual art. Information about inspiring, nurturing and non-competitive programs specifically designed for children aged 6 and up are listed below.
Art | Dance | Music | Theatre | Family Programs
Doodle Club
Join Miss. Lisa and other MCA community members virtually for a live and interactive art session. Each week students will have a chance to unwind from their day as they explore using shapes, lines and patterns to create new doodle designs. Come create and even relax the mind with us.
Students will just need a device enabled with Wi-Fi, white 8 1/2 x 11 typing paper, pencil, eraser and fine line felt tip black pen. Additionally, colored pencils or markers can be used to enhance creations, but are not required. Please make sure to enroll in this class at least 4 hours prior to class start time to ensure you get the Zoom link in time.
This class is free, however if you are find value in this program, our MCA Moments and want to help ensure MCA is able to continue to offer engaging programming during these challenging times and beyond, please consider making a donation if you are able.
Main reACTion Improv Troupe
Ready to take your improv skills to the next level? If so, Main reACTion is for you! The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts (MCA) is seeking creative quick-thinkers (ages 8-18) to join the Main reACTion Improv Troupe for the remainder of the 2021–2022 school-year. Main reACTion’s school-year troupe rehearses monthly and performs at 1–2 locations/events per semester.
During auditions, actors and actresses can expect to participate in a variety of improv games. Those auditioning should also bring a calendar with any vacation, known school year activities or end of summer activities on it to note conflicts on the audition form. Troupe members will be selected based on their ability to think on their feet, make quick decisions, stage presence, ability to work with others, and variety of ideas. There is no fee to audition, but troupe members will be asked to pay $60 to participate for Jan.- May 2022, which covers all instruction for monthly rehearsals and a T-shirt.
Main ReACTion was established in June 2019 as an activity that was part of Artists on Main Street, a partnership between Winona Main Street, the Preservation Alliance of Minnesota, and Springboard for the Arts with support from the Bush Foundation. Thanks to the interest and success of the troupe will continue to provide a creative outlet to area youth and entertain community members of all ages. Auditions, rehearsals, and performances will follow MCA’s COVID Code of Conduct.
Auditions: Sunday, January 16th 4:00-6:00pm in the Academy Theatre at MCA’s home, the Valencia Arts Center (1164 W. 10th Street, Winona, MN)
Age: 8-18 years
Cost: $60 (covers whole year + t-shirt)
Wizard of Oz
Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre will be back for the fifth visit to Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts. Area students ages 7-18 are invited to join the cast of “Wizard of Oz.” This original Prairie Fire Children's Theatre adaption is a musical production is the tale about Dorothy and her adventures over the rainbow. Any student registered will be cast in this week-long production. No prior theatre experience is required. All cast members are required to participate in the audition process on April 25, 2022 to determine their role. Cast members MUST be available for rehearsals April 25-29, 2022 Monday- Friday, 4-8:30 p.m. and performances on Friday, April 29th, 2022 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, April 30th, 2022 at 2 p.m. Performances are in MCA’s Academy Theatre at the Valéncia Arts Center.
Professional actors/ directors from Prairie Fire Children's Theatre will play The Scarecrow and Wicked Witch but the rest of the cast will be filled in by Winona area students. Rolls filled by area youth include: Dorothy, the Tinman, the Lion, Toto, the Munchkins, Glinda, the Yellow Brick Road, the Monkeys, the Winkies, the Green Guard, the Traders of the Emerald City, the Wizard of Oz, Aunt Em & Uncle Henry.
The community will be invited to the performances on April 29 at 7:00pm and April 30 at 2pm. Tickets are $8 for Adults and $5 for students (Tickets-on sale during MCA business hours April 25-29 and 1 hour prior to performances at the door. Cash or check only.)
All rehearsals and performances will follow MCA's COVID Code of Conduct.
Day/Dates: Monday-Saturday, April 25-30, 2022
Times: TBA (depends on role assigned, see time frames above)
Instructor(s): Professional Actors/Directors from Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre
Cast Member Price: $75 (All students who register will be cast, need-based scholarships available)
Ticket cost: $8 Adults & $5 Students (Tickets-on sale during MCA business hours April 25-30 and 1 hour prior to performances at the door. Cash or check only.)
All Dance Classes
Art | Dance | Music | Theatre | Family Programs
Below are all of the age based dance classes that do not require placement by instructor. Dancers who have 1-2 years of experience in a style of dance should contact our office 507-453-5500 and we are happy to help place you in the right class or suggest the right level(s) to trial.
Ballet IA
Dancers will love this introduction to classical ballet basics, including the introduction of barre work. Dancers will gain poise, flexibility and strength as they build a strong dance foundation.
Students and parents should review MCA's updated Health & Safety Code of Conduct.
Day/Dates: Tuesdays, May 17 - June 15
Time: 5:45-6:45pm
Age: 7+ (by May 1)
Fee: $50
Instructor: Megan Lynch
New to Ballet? We know that finding dancewear can be hard in our area, but please don't worry. Thanks to donations we are happy to offer families gentled used dancewear to families in need. Please contact our office to inquire at: mca@smumn.edu.
Ballet IB
Dancers will love continued introduction to classical ballet basics, including barre and center work, as well as combinations across the floor. Dancers will gain poise, flexibility and strength as they build a strong dance foundation.
Students and parents should review MCA's updated Health & Safety Code of Conduct.
Day/Dates: Wednesdays, May 18 - June 15
Times: 6:15-7:30pm
Ages: N/A
Instructor(s): Megan Lynch
Fee: $50
Ballet II
Fast beginning- Intermediate level of classical ballet.
Students and parents should review MCA's updated Health & Safety Code of Conduct.
Days/Dates/Times: May 18 - June 15, Mondays 6:00-7:15pm & Wednesdays 6:15-7:30pm **No class May 30
Age: Placement by Instructor
Instructor: Megan Lynch
Fees: $115 (9 classes, 11.5 hrs)
Tap I
A beginning level of rhythm tap for students ages 8 and up. Students will engage in rhythm games and tap exercises to build a strong foundation of tap technique. (Tap shoes in most sizes are available for loan)
Students and parents should review MCA's updated Health & Safety Code of Conduct.
Day/Dates: Monday, May 9-June 13 **No Class May 30
Time: 4:00-4:45pm
Age: 8+ (by May 1)
Cost: $50
Instructor: Jessica Dienger
Tap II/IIIA
An intermediate level of rhythm tap technique. Students will be introduced to exercises and concepts to increase articulation of sounds, musicality, sequencing abilities, and expand the student’s tap vocabulary. *
Students and parents should review MCA's updated Health & Safety Code of Conduct.
Day/Dates: Thursdays, May 12-June 16
Time: 6:30-7:30pm
Age: N/A, Place by Instructor
Fee: $60
Instructor: Jessica Dienger
Tap shoes available in most sizes available through our tap shoe lending program.
Beginning Hip Hop
This is an introduction to movement influenced by hip hop music from across the globe including breaking, popping, locking, and standard hip hop tricks and jumps.
Students and parents should review MCA's updated Health & Safety Code of Conduct.
Day/Dates: Wednesdays, May 11-June 15
Time: 5:45-6:30pm
Ages: 6-8
Cost: $54
Instructor: Jessica Dienger
Contemporary Dance I/II
Come and study the world of contemporary dance, an expressive dance genre that combines elements of modern, jazz, and classical ballet. In addition to exploring dance technique, dancers will also focus on initiation of movement and emotional intent behind each combination. No dance experience necessary.
Students and parents should review MCA's updated Health & Safety Code of Conduct.
Day/Dates: Mondays, May 9-June 13 **No Class May 30
Time: 4:45-5:30pm (Contemporary II students will finish class at 5:45pm)
Age: 8+
Fee: $45/Contemporary I, $50/Contemporary II
Instructor: Jessica Dienger
Dance Sampler for Kids 6-8
Children will look forward to class each week as they creatively explore the world of movement while also gaining dance foundations such as balance and spatial awareness.
Students and parents should review MCA's updated Health & Safety Code of Conduct.
Day/Dates: Thursdays, May 12-June 16
Time: 4:15-5:00pm
Ages: 6–8 years (by May 1)
Cost: $48
Instructor: Jessica Dienger
Dance Sampler for Kids 9-11
Children will look forward to class each week as they creatively explore the world of movement while also gaining dance foundations such as balance and spatial awareness.
Students and parents should review MCA's updated Health & Safety Code of Conduct.
Day/Dates: Mondays, May 9-June 13 **No Class May 30
Time: 6:15-7:15pm
Ages: 9–11 years (by May 1)
Cost: $48
Instructor: Jessica Dienger
Private Lessons
MCA offers private lessons for all ages and abilities! Our experienced teaching artists prepare students for a lifetime enjoyment of music.
Private lessons are offered year-round. Instruction available in flute, clarinet, oboe, saxophone, trumpet, french horn, trombone, baritone, tuba, violin, cello, guitar, bass. piano, percussion, and voice. Students will be expected to purchase method books the instructor feels best address the student’s needs. Students have the opportunity to perform during MCA’s annual fall, winter and summer concerts and other performance opportunities based upon instructor recommendations. Some instruments such as the violin, guitar and piano are better suited for young students, if you have a young child who is interested in learning an instrument please contact us at 507-453-5500 for more information or by filling out a registration form indicating an instrument of interest. Virtual and in-person lessons are available.
- 4, 30 minute lessons- $76
- 8, 30 minute lessons- $144
- 12, 30 minute lessons- $204
45 minute and 1 hour lessons may be arranged for more advanced students.
Lesson dates and times: Arranged between MCA instructor and student/family.
Adults 55+ Percussive Music Class II
Powerful Percussion
LOCATION & CONTACT
Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts
1164 West Howard (10th) Street
Winona, MN 55987
Phone: 507-453-5500
Fax: 507-453-5507
E-Mail: mca@smumn.edu
OFFICE HOURS
Winter 2022 Hours (Jan. - Mar. 26)
Monday- Thursday- 8am-6:30pm
Friday- 8am-3pm
Closed April 15th & 18th
This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
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