Over the past 30+ years we have evolved from the vision of Karen Freeborn, founder and dedicated theatre professional, into a vital part of the arts education scene in Ottawa.

In 1989 Ottawa School of Theatre began as Orleans Young Players under the direction and development of Karen Freeborn- founder and Artistic Director from 1989-1997. It began with one class of 16 students aged 9-11. By 1997 there were 120 students in regular weekly classes, as well as Summer Theatre Camps.

Today, we offer over 30 different classes and summer programming in both English and French, employ more than 15 local theatre professionals and produce more than 50 student performances per year.

Ottawa School of Theatre is one of the resident arts partners in the Shenkman Arts Centre , enabling us to provide our students with access to a professional theatre setting for all classes, rehearsals and performances as well as access to visual arts and pottery shows and classes. 

The mission of Ottawa School of Theatre is to offer excellence in theatre education and experience that is accessible to students of all ages.

Our vision is to be a creative catalyst for self-confident performers and discerning and appreciative patrons of the arts in our school and the greater community.

Honour Kathi Langston's legacy by empowering young artists

In June 2022, after 20 years of leading the Ottawa School of Theatre, our beloved Kathi Langston retired from her position as Artistic Director.

In honour of her fantastic work in building the school we know and love, we have launched the Kathi Langston Scholarship. We're asking for your help to build this fund, which will help young people access theatre education -- the perfect way to celebrate what Kathi stands for. 

Starting in 2023, the Kathi Langston Scholarship will grant two $1000 awards to OST students to pursue their post-secondary studies in the performing arts. The two awards will be dedicated to one student from our English classes and one from our French classes.

In addition, we will grant two $500 awards to existing OST students, one pursuing studies in English and one in French, to be used towards continuing their OST studies. 

Help us to honour Kathi and empower our theatre students by making a tax deductible donation to this scholarship fund.