Business Details
28 Years
experience
Youth Theater Education & Summer Camps in Medford, OR
Founded in 1998, the Oregon Conservatory of Performing Arts (OCPA) is the longest-running educational theater program for youth in the Rogue Valley. Our mission focuses on using collaborative theater education to empower learners and enrich their lives. We are governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and employ instructors from the public school system, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and local theater companies, all of whom bring advanced degrees and extensive experience in theater and education. Our team emphasizes professionalism, camaraderie, and teamwork, teaching students the full theatrical processfrom text analysis to staging productions. Since our inception, we have prioritized accessibility, awarding over $40,000 in scholarships to at-risk and low-income students.Our summer camps and year-round classes foster creativity, inclusivity, and lifelong friendships in a safe, supportive environment. With a dedicated team of professionals passionate about youth and the arts, we create meaningful experiences that inspire students to return year after year. Our programs, including the Magic of Theatre summer camps launched in 2009, have served hundreds of children aged 6 - 19. We collaborate with local and national organizations to expand opportunities for young people, ensuring the arts remain accessible despite funding challenges in public schools. Our commitment to excellence and community impact has solidified our reputation as a trusted leader in youth theater education.
Services
Youth Theater Classes
Summer Camps
Scholarships
Online Training
Senior Classes
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We offer youth theater education led by instructors with advanced degrees and industry experience.
- Our programs include scholarships for at-risk and low-income students.
- We provide safe, inclusive environments for creative growth and teamwork.
- Our summer camps and classes have served the Rogue Valley since 1998.
- We collaborate with the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and local theater companies.
Services
Youth Theater Classes
Our youth theater classes teach students aged 619 the fundamentals of acting, technical theater, and ensemble collaboration. Instructors with advanced degrees and industry experience guide students through scene studies, character development, and production staging. These classes emphasize creativity, teamwork, and professionalism, preparing students for future artistic endeavors.
Summer Camps
OCPA's summer camps provide immersive theater experiences for children and teens. Programs like the Magic of Theatre camp include rehearsals, workshops, and final performances, fostering confidence and artistic growth. Camps run for multiple weeks and cater to different age groups, ensuring age-appropriate challenges and engagement in a supportive environment.
Scholarships
We offer scholarships to ensure accessibility for at-risk and low-income students. Over $40,000 in financial aid has been awarded to date, enabling participants to join classes and camps regardless of economic barriers. Applications are reviewed based on need and commitment to the program's goals.
Online Training
OCPA provides online theatrical training for students seeking flexible learning options. These virtual classes cover acting techniques, technical skills, and performance preparation, maintaining the same rigorous standards as in-person programs. The platform allows remote participation while fostering collaboration through digital tools.
Senior Classes
Our senior classes cater to adults aged 55 and older, focusing on storytelling and performance. Participants explore vocal techniques, improvisation, and monologue creation based on personal experiences. These classes promote creativity, social connection, and artistic expression for mature learners.
People
Dennis Foster
Founder and Executive Director
Dennis Foster co-founded OCPA in 1998 to expand youth theater opportunities in the Rogue Valley. With a background in education, he oversees operations and strategic direction, ensuring accessibility and quality in all programs.
Jeff Tabler
Founder and Artistic Director
Jeff Tabler co-founded OCPA and serves as Artistic Director, shaping curriculum and creative vision. His expertise in theater education guides instructors and students, maintaining high standards for artistic and educational excellence.
Amanda Lampson
Marketing Director/Registrar
Amanda Lampson manages marketing and registration for OCPA, ensuring smooth program enrollment and community outreach. She coordinates communications and promotional efforts to expand the organization's reach and impact.
Caitlin Lushington
Instructor
Caitlin Lushington teaches advanced acting classes and directs summer camps at OCPA. With experience in Shakespearean theater and youth education, she develops curricula that challenge students while fostering creativity and technical skill.
BriAnna Johnson
Instructor
BriAnna Johnson specializes in character development and musical theater for younger students. Her interactive teaching style builds foundational acting skills through games, improvisation, and performance exercises tailored to children aged 712.
Questions
What age groups does OCPA serve?
OCPA serves students aged 6–19 for youth programs and adults aged 55+ for senior classes.
Are scholarships available for OCPA programs?
Yes, scholarships are available for at-risk and low-income students to ensure accessibility.
How long has OCPA been operating?
OCPA has been providing theater education since its founding in 1998.
What types of theater training does OCPA offer?
OCPA offers acting classes, technical theater workshops, summer camps, and online training programs.
Where are OCPA's programs located?
Programs are based in Medford, OR, with additional outreach across the Rogue Valley.
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