In Loving Memory of sondra pearlman

We are profoundly sad to share that OCT's founder, Sondra Pearlman, has passed away. Sondra leaves an incredible legacy, having brought exceptional theatre to almost four million children since she founded OCT nearly four decades ago. 

Oregon Children's Theatre grew out of the Portland Civic Theatre in 1988; it was Sondra's mission to introduce children to the magic and joy of live theatre. She believed that all children deserve to experience this magic, and that belief still guides our work today.

I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to know Sondra, and to spend time with her and her family over the past three years since my arrival in Portland. Her legacy preceded her, and I found myself deeply wanting to honor the roots of OCT—even as we have had to navigate difficult times. 

Sondra’s commitment to young people and her dedication to serving the children of our community is what has kept me focused on the future of the organization: Sondra's belief in the power of theatre for children has inspired us as we rebuild OCT. 

Sondra's family has established the Sondra Pearlman Memorial Fund at Oregon Children's Theatre: donations made to this memorial fund will be used to bring OCT's new vision to life. We will be sharing with the public our plans for the next chapter of OCT in the coming weeks and, while we are heartbroken that Sondra will not be here to experience it with us, her passion for this work will continue to lead us. 

Sondra's star outside Hatfield Hall reads “Children’s Theatre for Millions!” and, as OCT begins a new chapter, I am thrilled that we will continue to honor Sondra’s vision of introducing theatre to all children through deeper and more meaningful experiences across Portland and beyond. 

With deepest gratitude,

Jenn Hartmann Luck
Producing Artistic Director