Ottawa School of Theatre

The Ottawa School of Theatre is a nonprofit organization and registered charity dedicated to teaching theatre arts. Formerly known as the Orleans Young Players, it was founded in 1989 by Karen Freeborn, a performer and educator[1][2].

History

• 1989: The school was first established as Orleans Young Players with a single class of 16 students[1][2].
• 1994: Orleans Young Players became an independent organization with a volunteer Board of Directors, offering eight classes and staging six annual shows[1][2].
• 1996: Under the leadership of Artistic Director David Hersch, the school expanded to serve 120 students per week[1][2].
• 2002: The hiring of Kathi Langston as Artistic Director marked a shift from recreational theatre to a focus on theatre education[1][2].
• 2009: Orleans Young Players relocated to the Shenkman Arts Centre, fostering partnerships with local arts organizations[1][2].
• 2017: The school rebranded as the Ottawa School of Theatre to reflect its broader regional reach[1][2].
• 2020: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the school adapted by moving classes online and outdoors and staged three virtual All Ages Plays[1][2].
• 2022: Megan Piercey Monafu was appointed Artistic Director[1][2].
• Present Day: The Ottawa School of Theatre currently enrolls up to 600 students annually, taught by about 30 theatre professionals, and hosts over 50 student performances each year[1][2].

Mission and Values

The Ottawa School of Theatre emphasizes kindness and cooperation in its educational approach, integrating life skills into the creative process[1][2]. The organization values a supportive environment that prioritizes love and empathy, both on stage and in the broader community[1].