OCT and Pegasus Playhouse announce new partnership for summer youth programs

Oregon Contemporary Partners With Pegasus Playhouse

To Host Theatre Summer Camps For Local Young Performers

EUGENE, OREGON – Oregon Contemporary Theatre (OCT) is proud to announce a new partnership with Pegasus Playhouse for summer 2026 children’s programs. These valuable introductions to the performing arts for youth will take place at OCT, 194 West Broadway in downtown Eugene.

After drastic cuts to federal funding that impacted their major donor, Pegasus Playhouse—a beloved theatrical institution in operation since 2019—was forced to give up their performance and training venue in downtown Springfield. The self-described “scrappy” organization, headed by Scott Frazier-Maskiell, has added incredible performance opportunities, especially for youth looking for opportunities to experience the arts.

“When any performing arts organization faces difficulties it negatively impacts much more than just their performers and crew.” Says Craig Willis, producing artistic director of Oregon Contemporary Theatre. “In Lane County, we all share props, actors, equipment—while OCT isn’t a ‘community’ theatre, there’s no denying the strength of the community in our collective artistic efforts. That’s why, when we heard about Pegasus’ troubles, we saw an opportunity to work together.”

Beginning in Summer of 2026, OCT will host the “Peggles” of Pegasus Playhouse for their children’s theatre camps. This assures the continuation of a vital opportunity for young people to grow through arts participation.

“The sense of community and hospitality Oregon Contemporary Theatre extended to Pegasus Playhouse is truly the silver lining.” Scott Frazier-Maskiell is the founder of Pegasus Playhouse, with a theatrical and education resume spanning the country. ‘Next summer, Pegasus will be offering an elementary school camp and show, a middle school camp and show (TROLLS) and a High School Summer Stock camp (CHICAGO). All rehearsals and performances will take place at OCT. “

OCT’s Board of Directors, headed by president and longtime Pegasus collaborator Esack Francis Grueskin, voted unanimously to move forward with the proposed partnership.

Information about the upcoming Pegasus Playhouse camp experiences at OCT is forthcoming, and will be shared across social media channels and at octheatre.org.