Theatrical opportunities abound for Saint Thomas Academy and Convent of the Visitation School students. Involvement in VISTA Productions allows them to apply their scholastic knowledge while nurturing their creative talents. We offer a wide variety of theatrical productions ranging from classical works such as Shakespeare to contemporary pieces by national and local playwrights.

Our season also includes instruction in comedy improvisation techniques, dance and choreography, with numerous opportunities for student leadership in the creative and production process. Every year, we strive to design a season that challenges and enlightens our students while helping them discover their talents.

The skills acquired through theatre will not only round out an educational experience, it will last a lifetime. Consider the many exciting opportunities for exploration: acting, scenic design, costuming, choreography, comedy improvisation, stage managing, technical theatre, dancing, singing and producing…all of these are part of the VISTA program.

Directors ~ Wendy Short-Hays and Elliott Hays

Upper School students from Saint Thomas Academy and Convent of the Visitation School combine to form VISTA Productions, which produces theatrical works and creative projects in DeSales Auditorium at Visitation and throughout the community. There are many exciting opportunities for involvement both on and off stage. VISTA Productions' scenic and technical program offers many creative opportunities for students to contribute to production design and execution. Our students have been recognized by the Hennepin County Spotlight Music Theatre awards for excellence in lighting design, stage management and sound design. There is no previous experience necessary, just a willingness to explore, create, dream and get your hands dirty.

2008-09 Theatre Schedule

Fall Show
You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown

Friday, November 14 - 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, November 15 - 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, November 16 - 4:00 p.m.
Thursday, November 20 - 7:30 p.m.
Friday, November 21 - 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, November 23 - 4:00 p.m.

Winter Show
Full Circle Plus

An evening of one acts and dance, including Steel Magnolias and The Worst Show At The Fringe
Friday, January 30 - 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, January 31 - 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, February 1 - 4:00 p.m.

VISTA Comedy Improv
This is Serious Comedy!!

Friday, February 13 - 7:30 p.m.

Spring Musical
Aida by Elton John and Tim Rice

Thursday, April 23 - 7:30 p.m.
Friday, April 24 - 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, April 26  - 7:30 p.m.
Friday, May 1 - 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 2 - 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 3 - 2:00 p.m.

All performances for VISTA Productions are at the DeSales Auditorium, Visitation Fine Arts Center - 2455 Visitation Drive, Mendota Heights, MN 55120. Contact Artistic Director Wendy Short-Hays at 651-683-1750 for tickets.