ORCA Celebrates Grand Opening Honoring Otis Redding’s Legacy in Macon, GA
The Otis Redding Foundation proudly announces the opening of the Otis Redding Center for the Arts (ORCA) in Macon, Georgia. This state-of-the-art facility, located in the heart of Central Georgia, will offer comprehensive arts education to youth aged 5 to 18, with additional programming for toddlers and senior citizens scheduled to begin later this year.
ORCA's innovative curriculum blends music and arts education with cutting-edge technology, providing dedicated spaces for creativity, including seven creative labs, five private lesson rooms, and an amphitheater. It will also offer programs utilizing the latest technological tools to enhance artistic experiences. ORCA has established valuable partnerships with the Bibb County School District, Roberts Academy at Mercer University, and various local schools and organizations.
ORCA embodies the spirit and vision of Otis Redding, the iconic musician, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and Macon native, whose lifelong dream was to establish a creative haven for future generations. During his life, Redding actively pursued his passion for education and community, investing heavily in initiatives aimed at youth empowerment through music. Following his untimely passing in 1967, his widow, Zelma Redding, President and Founder of the Otis Redding Foundation, has passionately carried on his legacy. Mrs. Redding, alongside her family, continues managing Redding's extensive estate and music catalogue and advancing his charitable work. Reflecting on the opening of ORCA, Zelma Redding stated, “Being able to turn that dream into a reality with the help of my children, grandchildren, and all who support us, means more to me than words can express.”
The 15,000-square-foot center includes seven creative labs, five private lesson rooms, an amphitheater, and dedicated spaces that integrate music and arts education with cutting-edge technology. ORCA is conveniently located near the Otis Redding Museum at 339 Cotton Avenue, further enriching Macon’s vibrant cultural community.
ORCA's grand opening events kick off on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring the Redding family, Macon Mayor Lester Miller, Macon Chamber of Commerce representatives, city council members, and special guests. The celebrations will also highlight upcoming programming, including the “Creative Labs” and arts education programs such as the popular annual events: the Otis Music Camp (March 18–25, 2025) and Summer Music Arts Camp (July 14–25, 2025).
Karla Redding, Vice President and Executive Director of the Otis Redding Foundation, emphasizes the center’s alignment with Otis’s passion for youth empowerment and community education. In her words, "ORCA stands as an enduring reminder of Otis's commitment—not only as a legendary artist but as a humanitarian devoted to enriching the lives of young people."
Adding to Otis Redding’s ongoing legacy, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in October 2024. Additionally, a biopic titled Otis & Zelma, featuring John Boyega and Danielle Deadwyler, is currently in pre-production.
For further information on ORCA and its programs, please visit www.orcamacon.org.
