CONTRIBUTED BY OCT
OPELIKA — The Opelika Community Theatre (OCT) is proud to announce a dynamic, multi-part fundraising campaign in support of its Penguin Project Troupe and Players — an inspiring program that provides performing arts opportunities for individuals with developmental, neurological and physical challenges, alongside dedicated peer mentors.
Through musical theatre, dance and song, the Penguin Project continues to create a space where every participant is seen, celebrated and given the opportunity to shine. The Penguin Project is part of a national organization with more than 25 years of impact, bringing inclusive performing arts programs to communities across the country. For many families, it represents the highest level of opportunity in the performing arts world for this population — much like the Special Olympics and Miracle League have done for sports — offering not just participation, but recognition, growth and a true sense of belonging
Adopt a Penguin: A
Fundraiser with Heart
The first phase of the campaign invites the community to take part in the Adopt a Penguin fundraiser.
A limited collection of 60 specially selected penguins will be available for adoption. Each penguin is uniquely named by a Penguin Project Troupe or player and comes with a numbered, signed adoption certificate, making each one a meaningful keepsake.
Adoptions are available for $100, or $150, which includes a quarter-page program advertisement in an upcoming OCT production.
This initiative not only raises vital funds — it also creates a personal connection between supporters and the artists whose lives are being impacted.
Spring Musical: “Raise Your Voice”
The second phase of the campaign brings the mission to the stage as the OCT Penguin Project Troupe and Players present their 2026 Spring Musical:
“Raise Your Voice”
Performances will be held:
May 1 & 2 at 6:30 p.m.
May 3 at 2:30 p.m.
This uplifting musical showcase features a collection of beloved Broadway songs centered on themes of hope, confidence, acceptance and inner strength. Audiences will experience the power of performance as these incredible artists step into the spotlight.
Tickets are $25 and include a drink and popcorn. Proceeds directly support the Penguin Project, helping to fund licensing, production materials, staffing, volunteer training, rehearsal operations and costuming.
Looking Ahead: East
Alabama’s Dancing With Our Stars
The campaign continues into the fall with the highly anticipated return of East Alabama’s Dancing With Our Stars.
This exciting community event will feature local leaders and personalities stepping outside their everyday roles to partner with professional dancers — all in the name of raising sustainable funding for both the OCT Penguin Project and Compassionate Hands of Hope Epilepsy Foundation.
Additional details, including participants and event dates, will be announced soon.
Upcoming Capital Campaign: Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre
OCT will also launch an additional capital fundraising campaign in June with an interactive Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre experience.
Auditions will be announced soon for performers ages 17 and up interested in joining the newly formed Murder Mystery Troupe. This exciting addition will offer audiences a unique,
immersive theatrical
experience while continuing to build sustainable support for OCT programming.
Summer Opportunity: Musical Theatre Intensive Camp
OCT is also preparing for its Musical Theatre Intensive Camp, featuring “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” running June 8 through 27 with performances at the conclusion of the program.
Ages 9 to 17:
$350 for 3 weeks | 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (over 90 instructional hours)
Ages 5 to 8:
$325 for 3 weeks | 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (over 45 instructional hours)
Compared to many regional camps that charge $180 to $275 per week for only three-hour daily sessions, OCT offers a full-scale production experience with significantly more instructional time and hands-on training in performance, choreography,
character development and stage production.
Students registering by April 16 will receive a $25 early bird discount, with an additional $25 discount available to current and former OCT students.
This year’s camp will be led by Bella Hardin, an
educator with Opelika City Schools, Auburn Show Choir choreographer and theatre major at Auburn University.
Upcoming Production: “Hamlet”
Continuing its season, OCT will present Hamlet, directed by Onyx Wells, with Cameron Whitlow and Kaitlyn Johnson on the production team.
Performance dates:
May 7 – 8 @ 7 p.m. ; May 9 – Matinee at 2:30 p.m.
May 15 through 17
Evening shows start at 7 p.m. and matinees at 2:30 p.m.
A Community Effort
OCT extends its appreciation to community partners and supporters, including a special acknowledgment to The Observer, whose ongoing support helps make it possible to share these stories and opportunities with the greater community.
For more information, to adopt a penguin, register for camp or get involved, call (334) 400-9660 or email opelikatheatrecompany1@gmail.com.
