Founded in December 2020, Southern Plains Productions, Inc. (SPP) was established with a vision to enrich the cultural ecology of Oklahoma City and expand access to the performing arts. Through professional live theatre, arts education, and new work development, the organization seeks to reimagine live theatre with innovative artistic experiences that spark conversations and bring the Oklahoma City community together. 

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Southern Plains began as a creative playground for early-career artists, a place to take risks, develop new work, and build professional experience. For many artists, SPP provided their first paid theatre job. Today, the organization’s alumni have gone on to perform leading roles both on and off Broadway, in national and international tours, and in commercials, feature films, and other professional productions across the globe.

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From its earliest seasons, SPP has valued accessibility, innovation, and artistic excellence. Initially operating as a site-specific summer stock theatre, the organization produced pop-up performances in nontraditional spaces, intentionally moving beyond conventional theatrical venues. This approach reflected a belief that access to live theatre should not be limited by high ticket prices & elitest environments that can make the arts feel exclusive. By meeting audiences where they are and building relationships within the community, SPP has worked to cultivate trust and develop a broader, more inclusive audience for the performing arts.

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Community partnerships have been central to this mission. In 2024, SPP partnered with Hearts for Hearing and Science Museum Oklahoma to produce Silent Sky, the story of astronomer Henrietta Leavitt and her groundbreaking contributions to astronomy. With guidance and accessibility support from Hearts for Hearing, the production helped make the theatrical experience more welcoming to deaf patrons. The collaboration with Science Museum Oklahoma further demonstrated how the arts and sciences can intersect to inspire learning.

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Today, following six consecutive seasons of programming, Southern Plains Productions has grown into a professional, year-round regional theatre committed to strengthening Oklahoma City’s arts ecosystem. Its programming includes acclaimed productions, free public performances, student matinees, an expanding studio and arts education program, and the development of new theatrical works.

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Southern Plains Productions primarily serves Oklahoma City and surrounding communities, with particular attention to emerging and early-career artists, students, and audiences who have historically faced barriers to participation in the performing arts. SPP works to ensure that professional theatre is not a privilege for a few, but a vibrant and welcoming resource for the entire community.