Our Mission

The Off Center is an organization that brings people of any background together to experience curious stories and experiences.  We believe in the intrinsic value of gathering and exploring thoughts that we’ve never thought.  We encourage novelty and disruption.  Discovery is a basic human need.

The work that we create and support is off center.  This may mean many things, but it always invites participants to see something askew, possibly something previously unconsidered, maybe something disquieting.  Often the subjects we investigate are not common subjects.

While we place no emphasis on a particular message or cause for a work of performance or literature, we celebrate the infinite places and points of view that can be shared through story, performance, and shared language. 

Because this kind of openness can only be achieved with respect for all, we refuse to support racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, or any other form of oppression.

Some of the ways we choose to gather include:

• Story slams

• Theatre

• Poetry Readings

• Lectures

• Author events

• Classes

• Open mic nights

• Staunton Literary and Performing Arts Festival (SLAP)

We strive to create community and collaboration among individuals, organizations, and businesses within the Staunton area.