New Acting Classes At Histown!
new acting classes added to our fall lineup!
We added acting classes to our programming line up (taught by Heather Wise and Ben Francisco) that we’re really excited about! You can enroll your child immediately or sign up for a free trial class first. Regular tuition fees apply.
Beginning Acting/Stage Presence (Ages 8-11) Monday 5:30pm-6:30pm Taught by Heather Wise
This class introduces children to the fundamentals of acting through theater games, improv, short monologues and scenes, and much more theater fun. It is designed to build self-confidence and stimulate imagination.
Beginning/Intermediate Acting (Ages 12-17) Monday 6:30pm-7:30pm Taught by Heather Wise
Aspiring young actors will find a fun and exciting challenge in this Beginning/Intermediate Acting class! Students will learn the basics of how to feel comfortable on stage. From fun improv and theater games to short monologue and scene work, this class will focus on the fundamentals of performing and how to let your light shine with confidence on stage!
Improv Acting Class (Middle School 6th-8th grade) Friday 3:30pm-5pm Taught by Ben Francisco
Empower your youth ages 12 through high school with our engaging Christian Improv Acting Class, blending faith-filled fun with spontaneous storytelling, prayer, and Scripture to build confidence, encourage creativity, and nurture spiritual growth in a safe, supportive environment. Inspired by biblical tales, teens and preteens learn to "yes, and" real-life scenarios, sharpening quick thinking, adaptability, and empathy while deepening their walk with God. Supported by studies highlighting improv's role in strengthening social connections through active listening and teamwork, and enhancing emotional resilience by lowering anxiety and boosting self-worth, this class helps young believers navigate adolescence with boldness, stronger relationships, and a joyful expression of their faith.
Heather Wise is a seasoned dancer, actor and singer in the professional Musical Theatre and Film industry. She has studied and performed her craft for more than 35 years, and is also a teacher and choreographer in the arts. She has studied Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Modern, Contemporary, Tap and Hip Hop, and sings with a Soprano voice. She has trained many years under the influence of master teachers such as Gus Giordano, Gregory Hines, Deb DeRado, Melissa Swartz, Jon Rodriguez, Suzanne Walker, Mic Thompson, and Pamela Bolling…as well as concert training with various dance companies in Ohio.
Her college education included two years as a Dance Major/Musical Theatre Minor at Wright State University, before landing her first professional gig. She then chose to kickstart her career as a performance artist professionally, and moved from her small town in Ohio at the age of 20. Her Dance and Musical Theatre career have consisted of many years as a performer under the Actor’s Equity Association and S.A.G., with companies such as Walt Disney World, Mattel, and also Disney Cruise Line-where she served as Dance Captain for their first ship, The “Disney Magic”. She has also been contracted to perform and travel with Hardrive Productions (Orlando, FL), Jean Ann Ryan Productions (FL), PGT Productions (FL), Universal Studios, Sea World, Paramount and others. She feels blessed to have traveled the world as a dancer/singer and model.
Heather enjoys sharing her gifts with children and teens, and has a passion for using her talents for the Glory of God. She has led many dance ministries over the years, and serves in her local church. She can most recently be found as a supporting actress in the feature film, “Don’t Say My Name”, as Ballet Mistress “Professor Isabella” (IMDb), and as a Tap instructor at HisTown Dance Studio in Nashville, TN.
Heather feels honored to be a part of the Histown Family, and is so grateful and humbled to be a teacher here! ALL FOR HIS GLORY! “You have turned for me my mourning into dancing…” ~Ps. 30:11
Ben Francisco
Ben Francisco is a Nashville-based actor and singer with experience in both live performance and on-camera work. A main cast member of Oddity Improv, he has performed at the Historic Franklin Theatre and throughout Middle Tennessee, specializing in family-friendly comedic performance. His professional credits include commercials for Lifeway, Libby’s, and the Tennessee Department of Health, along with media projects for Sunny Side TV. Deeply rooted in his faith, Ben is passionate about using the arts to encourage confidence, teamwork, and joy while pointing students toward Christ. Through his Christian improv classes, he creates a safe and engaging environment where students can discover their creativity, build communication skills, and grow spiritually.