Clackamas Repertory Theatre is a well-loved professional theater company located at 19600 Molalla Avenue on the campus of Clackamas Community College in Oregon City, Oregon. Since its founding in 2004 by faculty members from the college’s theater department, Clackamas Rep has dedicated itself to bringing quality live theater performances to the local community and beyond. Their mission centers on building community through inspirational theater, making art accessible and meaningful for all who attend.
Founding and Leadership
The theater’s founders were experienced theater professionals, including David Smith-English (director, actor, singer), Cyndy Smith-English (performer), Christopher Whitten (technical director), and Alva Bradford (costume designer and multimedia artist). Together, they shaped Clackamas Rep into a company known for professionalism and strong creative work.
Diverse Productions and Seasons
Clackamas Repertory Theatre puts on a wide range of shows to appeal to diverse audiences, with seasons typically running from June through October. Their productions cover musicals, comedies, dramas, mysteries, and special series geared for children and families. The theater is known for high-quality work, featuring actors who are often members of the Actors’ Equity Association, a national union for professional stage performers. Audiences praise the skill of the actors, as well as the creativity in sets, costumes, and direction.
Education and Community Involvement
An important part of their mission is education and community involvement. The theater provides opportunities for students at Clackamas Community College to gain hands-on experience working backstage, in front of house, and sometimes on stage. This connection to the college helps foster young talent and technicians while enriching the theater community.
Visitor Experience and Amenities
Clackamas Rep is praised for providing a welcoming and comfortable visitor experience. The venue, known as the Niemeyer Center’s Osterman Theatre, is wheelchair accessible, clean, and staffed with friendly people. They offer free and easy parking, making it hassle-free to attend events. The theater embraces an inviting, less hurried environment perfect for families, seniors, and all theater lovers.
Professionalism and Talent
Their dedication to professionalism extends beyond acting to every aspect of a production—lighting, sound, costumes, and set design all meet high standards. Featuring a mix of local and regional talent, Clackamas Rep brings fresh energy and variety to its seasons. Ticket prices remain among the most affordable in the region while maintaining quality, encouraging groups, families, and friends to come, enjoy, and share memorable theater experiences.
Box Office and Contact Information
The theater’s official box office and administrative hours run Monday through Friday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, though the theater itself hosts performances mostly on evenings and weekends. The box office can be reached by phone at (503) 594-6047. Additional information about upcoming shows and ticket purchases is available by contacting the theater directly.
Recent Highlights
Recent seasons have included special highlights such as celebrating their 20th anniversary in 2024 with the classic mystery And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie. Current and upcoming productions, like the heartfelt one-person play Every Brilliant Thing, demonstrate their commitment to thoughtful, engaging theater that connects deeply with audiences.
Getting There
Getting to Clackamas Repertory Theatre is convenient. It’s located on the Clackamas Community College Oregon City campus, accessible via Highway 213 from I-205. Visitors turn left onto Beavercreek Road, then left again within the campus to find Niemeyer Center on the right, where the Osterman Theatre is housed.
Clackamas Repertory Theatre is a professional, community-focused arts organization in Oregon City that enriches its community with a wide variety of quality live theater. Its foundation of strong leadership, artist support, education, and accessible performances keeps it a beloved cultural hub for Clackamas County and beyond.
For anyone looking to explore local culture or enjoy a relaxing night out, Clackamas Repertory Theatre offers an approachable, affordable, and professionally produced theater experience that invites everyone to celebrate the power of live storytelling.
Sources: clackamas.edu, clackamasrep.org
Header Image Source: theclackamasprint.net
