Diamonds Under the Stars
Ojai Performing Arts Theater
Gala 2025
Celebrating Joan Kemper
Saturday, July 12th 2025 at Maison Ojai
OPAT Presents World Premiere
MARY SHELLEY
YEAR WITH NO SUMMER
By Jule Selbo Directed by Richard Camp
AUGUST 8-10 & 15-17
This world-premiere script, written by Jule Selbo, reframes history through a modern lens: female authorship, climate anxiety, and the power of creation in a collapsing world.
About Ojai Performing Arts Theater:
Raising the Bar for Local Theater in Ojai
OPAT produces professional theater rooted in Ojai and powered by collaboration. We create high-quality productions that bring local and professional artists together—entertaining today, while investing in the valley's creative future.
Vision
We envision Ojai as a vibrant, creative home where emerging artists are nurtured and world-class artists return to give back, building a living theatrical legacy right in our own backyard.
Mission Statement :
Ojai Performing Arts brings professional, inspiring theater to life through collaboration between local talent and world-class artists. We invest in Ojai's creative future through bold productions, artist development, and community engagement.
Our core values
ARTISTIC EXCELLENCE THROUGH PROFESSIONAL COLLABORATION
We pursue excellence by uniting world-class professionals with local talent. Our work demands skill, training, and vision—not just enthusiasm.
In Practice:
Casting Broadway veterans alongside prepared local performers
Hiring working professionals for creative teams
Implementing industry-standard production protocols
LONG-TERM INVESTMENT IN LOCAL TALENT
We believe in nurturing artists from within our community, creating a self-sustaining cycle that enriches both our productions and Ojai's creative future.
In Practice:
Offering scholarships for advanced professional training
Creating artist exchange partnerships
DEEP CONNECTION TO OUR COMMUNITY
We are grounded in Ojai. Our work reflects its values, responds to its challenges, and amplifies its voice.
In Practice:
Producing shows that connect with Ojai's environmental values
Creating outreach programs for underserved populations
Selecting works that both reflect and challenge our community
FINANCIAL INTEGRITY & SUSTAINABLE GROWTH
We manage resources with clarity, care, and a long-term perspective.
In Practice:
Publishing accessible financial reports
Maintaining diverse revenue streams
Building reserves for creative risk-taking