Templeton Performing Arts Center Foundation launches youth theater program
Program offers camps, workshops, and productions for local children and teens
– The Templeton Performing Arts Center Foundation announced the launch of TPAC Playhouse, a youth-centered theater program at the Templeton Performing Arts Center in Templeton on Dec. 10.
The program is designed to nurture local talent and expand arts access by offering children and teens a place to learn, collaborate, and perform on a professional stage while developing creativity, confidence, and life skills.
Through children’s plays, acting camps, workshops, performance intensives, and hands-on learning experiences, Playhouse will offer participants opportunities to explore theatrical production onstage and behind the scenes. A featured activity, “A Play in a Day,” will challenge youth to create, rehearse, and perform an original production in under 24 hours.
“The creation of Playhouse marks an important next step for the TPAC as a true arts hub for our community. I’ve seen how theatre can shape young people in ways that last a lifetime, building confidence, communication, and teamwork. It’s important to me that the TPAC is not only known as North County’s premier indoor performance venue, but also as a place where young artists can begin their journey in a real theatre space,” said Ryan Flores, Managing Director of the Templeton Performing Arts Center. “I couldn’t be more excited for this next chapter for the TPAC.”
In addition to youth programming, Playhouse will bring family-friendly productions and national performers to the Templeton Performing Arts Center stage. The Foundation states the goal is to provide local audiences access to entertainment while exposing young participants to professional-level theater.
The Foundation developed Playhouse in response to a regional need for arts education and youth performance opportunities in northern San Luis Obispo County. The initiative emphasizes experiential learning on a professional stage and aims to support skill-building, confidence, and community connection.
“I’ve been in the children’s performing arts arena for over a decade, and I’ve watched programs and budgets get cut in many school districts and private schools. The TPAC Playhouse program will help fill the need for arts education for children throughout San Luis Obispo County,” said Vicki van den Eikhof, President of the Templeton Performing Arts Center Foundation. “We’re looking forward to providing quality instruction and opportunities for youth to discover and develop their unique talents. There’s a place for everyone in the theatre.”
The first program under Playhouse is Neverland, a three-week performance camp concluding with shows on Jan. 23 and Jan. 24. For audition information, the Foundation directs participants to visit TempletonPAC.org or email Playhouse@TempletonPAC.org. Additional Playhouse activities and productions will be announced in the coming months.
