Our Roots
The Evans Academy Story
The Evans Children's Academy of Performing Arts was born from a simple belief: that every child in Ponca City deserves access to quality arts education.
The Evans Children's Academy of Performing Arts is named in honor of the Evans family, whose generosity and vision helped establish performing arts education as a cornerstone of the Poncan Theatre's community mission.
The Academy was established through a generous $25,000 gift from the Evans family, whose vision helped make performing arts education a cornerstone of the Poncan Theatre's community mission. Under the guidance of dedicated instructors and the support of the Poncan Theatre board, it has grown into one of Ponca City's most beloved youth programs.
Today, the Evans Children's Academy runs a summer musical theatre camp for students ages 7–12. The camp culminates in a live performance on the Poncan stage — giving every participant the chance to shine under the same lights where professional touring companies perform.
The Academy's scholarship program ensures that financial circumstances never prevent a talented, motivated young person from participating. Each year, the Poncan Theatre awards scholarships to eligible students, funded through donations from the community and our generous donors.
Our Legacy
“The arts change lives. Every child who walks through our doors leaves with more confidence, more creativity, and a deeper connection to their community.”
— Evans Children's Academy