What is Off Center? A space to take creative risks.

Off Center for the Dramatic Arts (affectionately known as Off Center or the OC) is a registered non-profit 501(c)3 organization created in 2010 to provide affordable performing and creation space for  theatre companies and performance artists.  For ten years, Off Center played host to not only theatrical events (including full productions, staged readings and new works) but also musical performance, comedy, lectures, community gatherings and workshops in performing and creative arts.
In March 2020, the Off Center venue was forced to close the doors in response to the COVID-19 crisis.  Our equipment went to temporary storage, and we halted public events to survive this bitter season.  As the world re-opens, the Off Center Board and volunteers begin our search for the perfect new home for independent and emerging performance creators in Burlington. 

In March 2023, we opened again in a newly built theater in the New North End of Burlington, at 1127 North Avenue, heralding an exciting new era for the Off Center, with updated technology and lighting, and an easily-accessed space with ample parking and nearby restaurants.​

Join our Community of Artists and Audiences

Off Center for the Dramatic Art is a 100% volunteer organization.  Operated by our board of directors, every aspect of the organization - from building the risers, hanging the lights, cleaning the bathrooms, planning festivals and keeping the books - is run by a community of local artists and audiences passionate about the need for affordable, professionally equipped performance and rehearsal space.  We value the opportunity accessible space affords artists to take risks producing new work, to experiment with new ideas, to explore favorite works with fresh eyes.  Everyone is welcome at Off Center - the work we do to build and maintain space subsidizes rental costs to lower barriers and make theatre production and performance creation available to all. ​
If our mission moves you, become an Off Centrist! 
We are actively seeking new artists, volunteers and supporters to join our team as we plan our next act. 
For more information on participating in Off Center planning and future events
 email [email protected].