At Newlook Performing Arts, our mission is to bring together diverse individuals and communities, offering enriching artistic experiences that cater to all ages in an inclusive, accessible environment. Our nonprofit theater aims to ignite passion for the performing arts, nurturing personal and artistic growth.

Ohlook Performing Arts Center debuted in 2002 with just four students in its first class (two of whom were family members!). Founded by professional singers Matthew Lord and Jill Blalock Lord, the center quickly gained a reputation as a welcoming space where children could freely express themselves. This tiny theater school emphasized opportunity over competition, fostering a positive and caring environment.

Over the years, Ohlook grew significantly through word of mouth. Each year, hundreds of children, from age 3 and up, participated in our classes. In its first six years alone, Ohlook produced an impressive 52 musicals and straight plays. While most schools typically produced only one musical and one or two plays annually, Ohlook provided young actors with numerous opportunities to study and gain experience.

Each semester, Ohlook offered classes and productions designed to help students grow, not just as performers but as individuals. Our top priority was to increase confidence and self-esteem among our students. We created a safe environment where students could explore, fail, and succeed without fear. At Ohlook, we rewarded effort, not just natural talent, believing that nurturing hard work allowed true talent to shine.

Ohlook also took pride in bringing in professionals to work with our students, providing them with unique insights into the theater industry. We were the only children’s theater in the metroplex to host so many high-caliber professionals. Over the years, we welcomed Anthony Rapp (original cast of “Rent” on Broadway), Jay Hunter Morris (international opera star), Keith Buterbaugh (from Broadway’s “Company,” “Phantom,” and “Sweeney Todd”), Candace Evans (international director/choreographer/actor), Thomas Douglas (conductor and coach at Carnegie Mellon University), Marla Mindelle (“The Drowsy Chaperone”, “Titanique”), Tony Award winner Lindsay Mendez (“Carousel,” “Wicked,” “Merrily We Roll Along”), and Corey Cott (Broadway’s “Bandstand,” “Newsies”), among several others.

Theater was like a family at Ohlook, and our older students and alums even named us "Ohlookians."

In 2020, a tragic worldwide pandemic struck, dealing a severe blow to the theater arts. We knew we would eventually come back strong, but in the meantime, the original founders of Ohlook pursued new ways to create and grow in different endeavors. When the pandemic subsided and it was safer to perform in person, they found themselves with two grown children and successful new businesses. Ohlook took a hiatus.

In 2024, a small group of both old and new Ohlookians decided to renew the original spirit of Ohlook, and we dubbed the theater "Newlook" with a respectful nod to our roots. We are committed to continuing to bring exemplary theatrical education to any and all students who wish to learn, and to provide our students and the community with productions of the highest standard.

As we transition to new leadership, we cherish the legacy that brought us here and hope you'll continue to be a part of our family. Welcome to Newlook Performing Arts Center!