About – CAPA – Creative Arts Production Academy

About Us

Our Story

Creative Arts and Production Academy (CAPA) is proud to bring the beauty of fine arts, theater and culture to our local homeschool students as well as the entire Southwest Valley. Our classes and events create a vibrant space where creativity thrives, allowing the student or the community member to explore their artistic curiosity and share their talents with the community at large.

CAPA offers a variety of educational classes “Academy”, theater production programs, special interest clubs, field trips, dances, and more to their homeschooling members.

For the community at large, CAPA provides an array of fun and entertaining events such as community theater, special events like games and dances, and educational workshops.

Our Mission

Our mission is to provide the community with opportunities to experience art and culture in ways that are inspiring and engaging. We believe that God designed everyone to create. That belief is at the root of what we do.

Our Values

Honoring Christ

At CAPA, we prioritize instilling Christian values in our programs, promoting character development, and fostering an environment where faith is integrated into the creative process, inspiring our students to grow spiritually as well as artistically.

Safe Environment For Children

CAPA is committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment where children can explore their creativity and express themselves freely. We maintain rigorous safety protocols, trained staff, and age-appropriate content to ensure the well-being and comfort of our students at all times.

Community Cultural Events

CAPA is dedicated to enriching the cultural landscape of our community by offering a diverse range of theater productions, showcases, and performances. We believe in bringing people together through the arts and creating memorable experiences that foster a sense of community and appreciation for the arts.

Class Location

18819 W. COOLIDGE ST., LITCHFIELD PARK, AZ 85340

Creative Arts and Production Academy’s dedicated team works across the Southwest Valley to support our work in creating artistic and educational opportunities in our community. Our entire team --- board, staff, interns, parents, and volunteers --- are integral to the success of our organization.

Shamira van den Akker CEO and Public Relations Director

Shamira has owned a wedding and event planning business, has been a revenue manager for the parking of an airport, and has been an artist at Disney World. She and her husband, Bob, homeschooled their children, and have always been in love with theater and the arts. Shamira is a driving force behind CAPA marketing, public relations, and event planning. With a flair for social connection, she orchestrates memorable experiences for the CAPA members as well as the Southwest Valley community.

When not crafting fundraising campaigns, she plays a significant role in the costume department, ensuring our plays come to life with authenticity and style. She also has a passion for acting and has participated in most of CAPA’s plays.

Samara Loschiavo Educational and Productions Director

Samara and her husband, Steve, have dedicated themselves to homeschooling their daughter throughout her entire educational journey. Drawing from her extensive experience of over 20 years working with at-risk youth and in the field of education, Samara has developed a profound understanding of children. Her journey has been blessed with the opportunity to direct a variety of plays, both in educational and entertaining settings. Her true passion lies in mentoring young individuals, motivating them to pursue their dreams while aligning their paths with God’s divine plan for their lives.

One of her favorite hobbies is producing short films with her family!

Robert “Bob” van den Akker Operations Director

Bob has more than 23 years in government, working for pollution prevention. He has a degree in Molecular and Microbiology, is a Registered Sanitarian, and is currently an Environmental Manager for a local municipal. Bob and his wife have homeschooled their children, and have seen their kids grow through the arts and theater. “Live theater is very entertaining, and it is amazing to see kids grow as they learn to find their voice.”

Steve Loschiavo Creative and Artistic Director

Steve has more than 20 years of experience working with children as a house parent with his wife, in children’s homes, and has homeschooled their daughter, Isabella. Stephen is a former Disney performer, and an army veteran and when he is not working on a play or film, he is working his day job in the timeshare industry. He has written, produced, and directed several plays, the latest being a rendition of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” for the city of Goodyear. His skills also include set design, filmmaking, and video editing. He enjoys working with his family and uniting the community through the arts.

Kathy Moore Board Member and Treasurer

Kathy is excited to see all the amazing plans God has for homeschoolers in the West Valley through CAPA! She was an elementary school teacher for 9 years prior to homeschooling her own 3 children over the past 13 years. Kathy & her husband, Eric, will celebrate 30 years of marriage this year! They have enjoyed many family adventures while traveling through 43 states in their RV. Snow skiing, gardening, hosting social gatherings, and fellowshipping with their church community are some other family activities they are passionate about. They live on a mini-farm with 2 dogs, chickens, turkeys, a duck, and 3 tortoises! Kathy’s prayer is that God will use her gifts and talents to serve CAPA in a way that honors Jesus!

DeAnna Ahart Board Member

DeAnna and Shaugne have homeschooled for over 20 years, with theater being a fun and exciting part of the journey. They both have a passion for entrepreneurship and have been involved in business for many years. She enjoys learning about new crafts, spending time with her family which includes 2 Doxies, Bible journaling, and watching the cows on their farm.

Hannah Mango Parent Teacher, Field Trip Coordinator and TPUSA Organizer

Hannah is a wife of 18 years and mother to two daughters. She has homeschooled for the past nine years and has taught other homeschoolers history and civics classes. Hannah and her family recently moved to Tonopah, Arizona from Southern California. She enjoys camping, outdoor activities, gardening and a good game of Yahtzee!

You can reach her email at: fieldtrips@capaaz.org.

Lindsay Meridith ESA Advisor

Lindsay has over 20 years of experience as a graphic designer in the advertising and marketing industry. She has homeschooled her children over the years utilizing ESA/ClassWallet. With one now in college, she has the knowledge to assist others in how to navigate the ESA/ClassWallet option.

You can reach her via email at esaadvisor@capaaz.org.

Nicole Dalgetty

Nicole Dalgetty is mom to three fantastic kids; Grace, Ava and Aidan. She is a Chicago native (and White Sox fan) and has called Arizona home for just over a decade. Although she misses the change of seasons, she loves the abundant sunshine and warm weather all year round!

Nicole will be using her gifts to serve the CAPA community through prayer outreach. She knows how vital prayer is in our lives and wants families to have someone come along side them when needed. You can reach her via email at faithinaction@capaaz.org for any prayer requests.

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