Association of Community Theaters of Greater Cincinnati
About ACT & OCTA
ACT is Unique
The Association of Community Theaters (ACT) of Greater Cincinnati, Inc. is a unique nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the growth, development, and excellence of community theatre throughout the Greater Cincinnati region. As an umbrella organization, ACT brings together local theatre groups to foster collaboration, communication, education, and mutual support. By sharing resources, knowledge, and opportunities, ACT helps its member organizations strengthen their productions, enrich their communities, and provide the highest quality theatrical experiences for audiences across the region.
ACT is Historic
Founded in 1955, ACT has been supporting and strengthening community theatre throughout the Greater Cincinnati area for more than 70 years. Three of today’s member organizations were among ACT’s original charter groups, a testament to the enduring spirit of community theatre in our region. One member, CenterStage Players, holds the distinction of being Ohio’s oldest community theatre organization, with a history of productions dating back to 1885. ACT’s story continues to grow. Community theatre is thriving across Greater Cincinnati, as evidenced by the addition of several new member groups in recent years, bringing fresh voices, new audiences, and even more opportunities to celebrate the performing arts.
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ACT is Educational
ACT is deeply committed to supporting education in the theatrical arts. Each year, ACT provides financial assistance to college students pursuing studies in theatre through its annual scholarship program. ACT’s dedication to education also extends to its distinctive Adjudication Program. Through this program, trained adjudicators—including theatre peers and local academics—provide constructive written evaluations of member productions, offering valuable feedback to help organizations and artists grow in their craft. Adjudicators also recognize exceptional achievements in both performance and technical theatre by nominating individuals and productions for ACT’s prestigious Orchid Awards, which are presented annually at the ACT Banquet.
ACT is Social
Each June, ACT hosts the annual Southwest Regional OCTAFest, a celebration of community theatre and one of the region’s most anticipated theatrical events. Sponsored by the Ohio Community Theatre Association (OCTA), the festival brings together member theatres from across Southwest Ohio to present 40-minute excerpts from productions performed during the season. Following the festival, selected groups are invited to represent the region at the statewide OCTAFest, held each Labor Day weekend. More than just a showcase of theatrical talent, the Southwest Regional OCTAFest is renowned for its spirit of camaraderie, collaboration, and celebration. Performers, directors, technicians, and theatre enthusiasts gather to share their work, support one another, and celebrate the art they love.
ACT Can Be You!
Opportunities abound for anyone interested in becoming involved in community theatre! Whether your passion is performing on stage or working behind the scenes, ACT member theatres offer a wide variety of ways to participate in every aspect of theatrical production. You'll have the chance to build on your existing experience, learn new skills, and collaborate with others who share your love of theatre. The first step is easy: connect with an ACT member theatre near you or explore groups that specialize in productions that interest you most. Community theatres are always looking for volunteers and artists, and they welcome newcomers as warmly as seasoned veterans.