Every season, six small local theaters in Olympia create works meant to inspire and connect the community. The Oculist, the newest addition, is a beautifully funny show exhibiting the power of local theater.

There are six local theaters in Olympia producing beautiful seasonal shows that attempt to exhibit the art and passion within the community. One of these spectacles is The Oculist which exhibits everything a local show tries to be.

The Oculist is a musical comedy inspired by the true story of an eye doctor who traveled around Europe using his apparent god-like treatments on peasants at the end of the Renaissance period. The show focuses on twisted humor, grotesquely bright costumes, and features 13 local actors who pour their heart and soul into creating a performance the community will remember.

Unlike large-scale production theaters on places like Broadway, local shows can go beyond the set of theater. Stella RS, band member and writer for the Oculist, explained how “the play is definitely punk theater. It’s raw and handmade, not like something polished with spinning stages.” This allows for a production that stands apart from traditional theater, offering a refreshing and unconventional experience.

Buying tickets for shows like the Oculist isn’t just supporting a business, but also people you might know. “It’s your friend doing art, it’s your neighbors doing art, it’s the people you see around town doing art,” said Harrison Hannon, ensemble member for The Oculist.

Small shows like The Oculist demonstrate that art can leave a lasting impact, even without big budgets. As Stella RS said, “It’s important for people in the community to know that you don’t need a bunch of money or resources to create things that have impact.” By using local talent and materials, productions like The Oculist prove that creativity and passion are what truly resonate with the audience.