Oregon City Children's Theatre

Great community children’s theater that accepts participants as they are and where they are, creating a safe, supportive environment where kids can grow not only in theater techniques but in character and as a whole person. My son has found his people here through friendships, role models, teachers and the opportunity to be a role model himself. We appreciate the extended “family” we have gained through OCCT as participants but also as parents and siblings. Michelle and Beth work hard to put on great productions and camps while meeting participants where they are at and helping them improve and meet their own goals. They provide honest feedback, encouraging direction, stated expectations, and recognition and praise for a job well done. It’s not always easy, but it is always valuable and rewarding. This has been a great foundational piece of my son’s start in theater.

I have been performing with Occt since I was 5 years old: almost 10 years! I have participated in 11 productions both on and off the stage. This theatre had impacted my life In a way I can’t even put into words; but I’m going to attempt right now with the hopes that other kids will get a chance at the same experience I have had the pleasure of having. OCCT IS A FAMILY. Everyone there, staff and kids, are always ready to jump in and help you out inside or outside the theatre. The environment at OCCT is so conducive to growth, friendship, and confidence building. I have participated in various other theatre productions and companies, including school activities, and in the last few years(since I’ve been old enough to take care of my own schedules etc…) I have not participated in one as organized In terms of schedules and communication. I’m rarely unsure of what is being asked of me, and if I am; the staff is always glad to help! The OCCT staff is always pushing actors to grow and do the best they can. I have done many things I never thought I was capable of because they believed in me and continued to push me. Everyone there is so supportive and loving toward everyone, no matter who you are or where you come from. Doing a show with OCCT is a big commitment. It requires A LOT of time and A LOT of work from both parents and kids. That is part of the satisfaction of doing a show, seeing such a large group of people come together and pull off an amazing show. But because it is a big commitment, it won’t fit with all families schedules and such, so make sure you check out the requirements before registering. If you are unsure about the commitment for a full scale production, I highly recommend you try one of the camps! It takes a community to put a show together, including parents, kids and staff. The staff puts so much effort and time into the show, even when multiple staff members have jobs outside the theatre to juggle. They continue to put these shows on because of their passion for helping kids grow. The OCCT staff is always there to help. Anytime I know of that kids have brought up concerns about any conflict or anything, the staff always takes immediate action to make sure everyone feels safe and included and prevent any issues in the future. They make a point to intervine And prevent anyone talking negatively or spreading rumors about anyone. There have been times where for various reasons we have gone a while without doing a show and I miss it so much every time. Every time a registration opens I immediately sign myself up because I am so excited. And I know many of my friends have done the same! I have learned so much, about life and about theatre through this program, and I hope other kids will get to do the same.

OCCT is not only my home but my family. I have moved a lot of times in my life and have always lacked consistency but even from a far they continue to include me, and I look forward to every visit. This is a hands on family experience. Shows do require time from parents, but everything they require is clearly stated on their website. This continues to grow the family aspect because it’s not just the kids involved. My dad would look forward to set work days. It showed me he cared about me and was a way he could get involved in my life. If this isn’t a commitment that your family can make, I suggest a summer camp! It’s a week long, and so so fun. I have participated and been a counselor for many of them and it’s amazing what Michelle and Beth can pull off in one week. I’ve been a part of several theaters but OCCT tops them all. I have made friends for life here.

My daughter has had the best experiences with OCCT! We had searched for a theater program for several years with nothing in our area, then we found OCCT. The staff is very suppotive and communicates expectations consistantly. My daughter loves all of the kids she has met through this program. I have been very impressed with the way the older kids interract, encourage and support the younger kids. My daughter is learning very important lessons in responsibility and commitment to a team. This program requires more time commitment than cost. Review the required commitments before registering for a production.

Our family has been so impressed with Oregon City Children's Theater. Michelle, Beth, Joel and Shirley's professionalism, knowledge and dedication has been awesome, and their willingness to share it with the community, such a gift. My daughter was hooked from the first rehearsal, making great friends and learning a lot along the way. We're so happy to have found them!