Business Details
50 Years
experience
Your Community Arts & Cultural Center in Eastsound
Orcas Center has served as Orcas Island's premier arts and cultural hub since its incorporation in 1976. Our 10,000-square-foot facility provides a dynamic space for artistic expression and community connection through performing arts, visual arts exhibitions, educational programs, and event rentals. We present and produce dance, music, theater, and visual arts by local and visiting artists while offering diverse learning opportunities for all ages. Our two professional stages, art gallery, dance studio, and modular event spaces host over 200 annual events that enrich the cultural fabric of our island community.As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we rely on community support to maintain our beautiful facilities, deliver arts education programs in local schools, and bring diverse talent to Orcas Island. Our dedicated staff and volunteers work year-round to create a welcoming environment where residents and visitors can engage with the arts, attend cultural events, and participate in community-building activities.
Services
Performing Arts
Visual Arts Exhibits
Event Rentals
Arts Education
Community Programs
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- Established community arts hub since 1976 with deep island connections
- Professional facilities include two theaters, art gallery, and dance studio
- Over 200 annual events featuring local and visiting artists across disciplines
- Arts education programs serving schools and community members of all ages
- Sustainable venue with recent infrastructure upgrades including microgrid system
What people say
Cultural gem
Engaging performances
Beautiful facility
Community hub
Creative energy
Services
Performing Arts
Orcas Center presents over 200 annual performances featuring local and visiting artists in dance, music, and theater. Our two professional stages host diverse productions from community theater to international touring acts. The 216-seat Center Stage Theater and intimate Off Center Stage provide venues for both large-scale and experimental productions that engage island audiences year-round.
Visual Arts Exhibits
Our Visual Arts Committee curates monthly exhibitions in the Madrona Room and Lobby galleries. The program showcases local talent through community art shows, featured artist displays, and special themed exhibitions. This platform supports emerging and established artists while providing island residents and visitors with rotating visual art experiences that reflect the region's creative diversity.
Event Rentals
Orcas Center offers multiple spaces for private and public events including the 216-seat theater, modular Madrona Room, dance studio, and lobby areas. Our facilities accommodate weddings, conferences, classes, and community gatherings with technical support and catering options available. The venue's central Orcas Island location makes it accessible for both residents and visitors.
Arts Education
We deliver arts education programs for all ages through workshops, classes, and school partnerships. The curriculum includes performing arts training, visual arts instruction, and creative development opportunities led by professional artists. These programs nurture artistic skills while fostering community connections through collaborative creative projects and public showcases.
Community Programs
Our community initiatives include volunteer opportunities, membership programs, and donor partnerships that sustain the center's operations. We organize special events like the Annual Meeting, fundraising dinners, and the Adult Spelling Bee that strengthen community bonds. These programs ensure the center remains a vibrant hub for cultural exchange and civic engagement.
People
Jake Perrine
Executive Artistic Director
Jake Perrine leads artistic programming and organizational strategy at Orcas Center. With extensive experience in performing arts management, he curates diverse cultural offerings that engage island audiences. Jake oversees production operations and artist relations while maintaining community partnerships that support the center's mission.
Nicole Matisse
Development Director
Nicole Matisse manages donor relations and fundraising initiatives at Orcas Center. She develops membership programs, business sponsorships, and grant applications that sustain the organization's operations. Nicole works to ensure financial resources support artistic programming, facility maintenance, and community outreach efforts across Orcas Island.
Cameron Sherman
Technical Director
Cameron Sherman oversees technical operations for performances and events at Orcas Center. He manages sound, lighting, and stage equipment while providing production support for visiting artists. Cameron ensures technical systems meet professional standards while maintaining safety protocols for performers and audiences in both theater spaces.
Colleen Smith Summers
Marketing Lead
Colleen Smith Summers directs marketing and communications for Orcas Center. She develops promotional campaigns, manages digital content, and coordinates media relations to increase community engagement. Colleen ensures consistent branding across all platforms while highlighting the center's diverse programming to attract island residents and visitors.
Keith Light
Remote Systems Manager
Keith Light manages technical infrastructure and remote systems operations at Orcas Center. He maintains the recently commissioned microgrid system that enhances facility sustainability and resilience. Keith ensures reliable technology operations for performances, events, and daily administrative functions while implementing energy-efficient solutions for the island community.
Questions
What types of events does Orcas Center host?
We host performing arts (theater, music, dance), visual art exhibitions, community events, educational programs, and private rentals across our multiple venue spaces.
How can I get involved with Orcas Center?
Join as a member, volunteer for events, donate to support programs, or apply for business sponsorship opportunities through our development department.
Are there arts education programs for children?
Yes, we offer school partnerships and youth-focused workshops in performing and visual arts through our educational programming initiatives.
Can I rent Orcas Center's spaces for private events?
Our venues accommodate weddings, conferences, and community gatherings. Contact our booking team for availability and technical specifications.
How is Orcas Center funded?
As a nonprofit, we receive support from ticket sales, individual donations, business sponsorships, grants, and membership contributions that sustain our operations and programs.
What recent improvements have been made to the facility?
We completed a microgrid system installation in 2025 to enhance energy resilience and sustainability for long-term community benefit.
Reviews (5)
Coleen O'Brien
Mar 07, 2021
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So disappointed. Lived here 45 years but no shot here for me. I made the mistake of taking advantage of a first shot off island. Now, I am assured that I will not get the second shot on Orcas. I must hope I can make it to the mainland on the right day and time....when whomever has it and will let me.
Disappointing and a little scary.
Disappointing and a little scary.
Ashley Morrow
Mar 06, 2021
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I worked at the orcas center for a few days. Putting up new track lights. Thd center's employees were great!
Remy R.-Emy Remy
Jan 03, 2020
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Classic auditorium that provides the arts & culture. My daughter has taken multiple dance classes here. Great rotating art on the walls. Very popular for locals who want to get out to see a play.
Ben Straton
Dec 11, 2019
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What a fantastic venue. We saw an amazing show called "Don't Call It A Riot", and it was incredible. I do wish they had water for sale though. I know everyone was enjoying the wine and beer for sale, but I don't drink and would have easily payed 5 dollars for a bottle of water, just so I wouldn't have to drink out of the water fountain. Still, a small gripe, compared to the incredibly memorable experience.
Fillup Banks
Oct 06, 2018
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I didn't see a show. But I went in and checked out the art work it was cool!! The staff.. The lady at the front desk.. She was new to the island, but she was super nice!!! And super helpful, hmm I give her 2 thumbs up!!!
