President Joan Schaeffer is a former first and fourth grade teacher who also spent several years in corporate sales before turning her energies toward theatre.

She has performed in theatres throughout the greater Chicago area as well as in numerous industrial films and commercials.

Joan began HPC in 1990 as a way to incorporate her love of children and theatre while addressing the need for character education in our youth.

She is the mother of two wonderful children and the author of all of HPC's productions.

Director Ron Wachholtz has been involved in theatre since age twelve.

Prior to his work with HPC, he was artistic director at Playhouse on the Square in Memphis, TN, and managing director of the Idaho Shakespeare Festival in Boise, ID.

Ron holds degrees in both theatre and television and has directed over 60 plays around the country, including New York City. Ron is also responsible for costume design as well as sound and slide production for HPC.

Office Staff

Pam Ricks
Melissa Engelhard
Christine Martin

Chicago Actors

Nicole McKeel
Laura Mahler
Jason Wroblewski

Minnesota Actors

Andrew Busam
Brad Erickson
Alisa Kimbrough
Megan Kelly

Boston Actors

Rich Arum
Sheryl Miniscalo
Nikki O'Carroll