Oregon Children's Theatre

09/03/2026

"If we evolve and follow where the need is and listen to what families and schools are telling us, we see the path, we know where we’re being called to serve. That feels really exciting. This is a moment of change I’m really proud of.” — Jenn Hartmann Luck

We're ready to take the next big steps to serve our community. Thanks Portland Business Journal for the support!

The organization was in a financial crisis post-Covid, with rising costs taking a toll.

09/02/2026

Have you heard the news? We’re back 💕

The company will produce 2 shows after halting all operations a year ago amid financial strain.
https://mrf.lu/2LNF0

09/01/2026

Every child deserves access to safe, imaginative spaces where they can truly belong.

For over 35 years, OCT has been creating spaces of belonging: spaces where children can forge critical life skills, explore their imagination, learn who they are and who they want to be. A place to be curious, to develop resiliency, to make big, bold mistakes and learn from them in a place where they feel comfortable, connected, and safe.

When OCT paused programming last year, we weren't sure what the future would hold for us. Now, we are excited to share our reimagined mission with you, and invite you to join us on this next adventure.

Learn more at octc.org/oct-reimagined.

08/28/2026

Today, we're celebrating the memory of our founder, Sondra Pearlman, on what would have been her 82nd birthday.

Sondra passed away last month, but as we continue to reimagine OCT's future, we feel Sondra's passion and carry with us her belief that all children deserve access to meaningful theatrical experiences.

Sondra's family has established the Sondra Pearlman Memorial Fund at OCT: donations made to this fund will directly support OCT in our rebuilding efforts and bringing OCT's new vision to life. Make a donation today at octc.org/donate.

08/26/2026

THIS WEEKEND: as OCT prepares for its next phase of rebuilding, we are spreading the joy and magic created over the past three decades with our community as we say farewell to the OCT Scene Shop.

The Scene Shop has created and provided a multitude of artistic elements—scenery, props, set dressings, and so much more—for every single show produced by OCT. Now, these items need to find a second life with artists, makers, and creators, so that these treasures continue to provide joy. All items are completely and totally free, so that they can continue creating magic for millions more in our community.

Join us between 9 am–2 pm on Saturday, August 29 and Sunday, August 30 to take home a part of OCT's storied past as we begin a new and exciting next chapter! Get more details on our website.

08/11/2026

Summer may be coming to a close, but that doesn't mean the fun has to end—join us for eight more weeks of imagination and creativity! Whether your child is interested in learning the basics or ready to take their theatre education to the next level, there's something for everyone at OCT this fall:

🦄 Creative Dramatics: Magical Adventures! for ages 4–6
🎭 Acting & Improv for ages 7–9 and 10–12
🎶 Musical Theatre Revue for ages 8–12

All classes will be held at the Cottages at Multnomah Arts Center in SW Portland; full and partial scholarships available. Classes fill quickly, so sign up today! octc.org/classes

07/22/2026

Ready to make a difference in the lives of youth & families through outstanding theatre arts education? We are hiring an Education Manager to oversee our core education programs, including our classes, camps, and in-school programs. As we continue to rebuild and relaunch our core programs, we're looking for someone ready to imagine, learn, and grow alongside us!

Think you're the right fit? Check out the job description and apply at octc.org/job-openings

07/20/2026

We are profoundly sad to share that OCT's founder, Sondra Pearlman, has passed away. Sondra leaves an incredible legacy, having brought exceptional theatre to almost four million children since she founded OCT nearly four decades ago.

Sondra's star outside Hatfield Hall reads “Children’s Theatre for Millions!” and, as OCT begins a new chapter, we will continue to honor Sondra’s vision of introducing theatre to all children through deeper and more meaningful experiences across Portland and beyond.

Sondra's family has established the Sondra Pearlman Memorial Fund at Oregon Children's Theatre: donations made to this memorial fund will be used to bring OCT's new vision to life. While we are heartbroken that Sondra will not be here to experience it with us, her passion for this work will continue to lead us.

You can learn more about Sondra and her legacy at orartswatch.org/sondra-pearlman-founder-of-oregon-childrens-theatre-dies-at-81/

Special thanks to Bob Hicks at ArtsWatch for the touching tribute.

06/03/2026

It's not too late to sign up for summer camps! If you're still looking for June camps for your kids, you're in luck—we still have space in several of our upcoming camps! Come sing along with Elsa, slay mythological beasts, have a laugh with Lil Petey, and so much more. Get signed up today before these camps fill up! octc.org/camps

05/17/2026

Saturday Night the Briar Patch sneak peek!