The Orbit Initiative is a program of the Tulsa Performing Arts Center Trust, a nonprofit organization in Tulsa, OK, that offers a vibrant schedule of arts classes, seminars, and masterclasses at no charge to communities throughout Tulsa. Acknowledging that community is the bedrock for any successful endeavor, this process is driven by the community for the community, thereby working to improve the quality of life within the Tulsa community and revitalize our citizenship. During the process of instruction and education, the goal is that a greater understanding of community will be garnered and grown. Also, the opportunity to involve those from the community classes to participate in the creation of ambitious works of participatory large-scale theatre of, by, and for the people of Tulsa. Originally conceived by The Public Theater in New York, our program follows their framework and style, Public Works, all while adding and adapting for Tulsa’s needs and desires.
Each year, approximately 230,000 people come to the Tulsa Performing Arts Center for performances, concerts, exhibits but there are several communities who have never had access to this building or the creation of art that happens inside. The Orbit Initiative is changing that.
The National Endowment of the Arts has proven that people who participate in the arts are more likely to excel academically, develop positive skills and behaviors, and be more civically engaged. While 75% of children from moderate- to high-income families in Tulsa are involved in the arts, only 10% of children from low-income families have that advantage. To benefit a more diverse representation of our city, The Tulsa PAC Trust established The Orbit Initiative. This program engages and educates 250-500 community members from our city’s unique population. Last year, 2880 people reserved tickets to the full-scale production at no charge in which 67% included low-income families. We invite members of diverse communities to participate in workshops, take classes, attend performances, and, most importantly, join in the creation of ambitious works of participatory theatre and help bridge communities together, accentuating our similarities and diversity as motivation and strength as our city takes center stage. The Orbit Initiative is animated by the idea that theater is a place of possibility where the boundaries that separate us from each other in the rest of life can fall away. In essence, it is inviting the whole city to celebrate itself.
For more information, please contact:
Jeremy Stevens
Education & Development Coordinator
918.596.7119
jstevens@tulsapac.com