ABOUT FIREFLY
Firefly Creative is a nationally recognized youth theatre organization rooted in imagination and community. What began as outdoor, driveway-style performances has grown into a vibrant hub for classes, camps, touring productions, and large-scale community events across the Memphis area. We specialize in musical theatre experiences for children and teens, creating joyful, high-quality productions that meet students where they are and invite them to grow as performers and people. From free school touring productions and pay-what-you-can shows to summer camps and seasonal performances, Firefly exists to make the arts feel welcoming, exciting, and within reach for every family.
At the heart of Firefly Creative is a simple belief: the process is just as important as the product. We are passionate about helping students grow as storytellers by "catching lightning in a bottle"—valuing the experience of every cast member, every parent, and every audience member along the way. Our programs blend professional standards with playfulness, creativity, and care, offering opportunities that feel both meaningful and magical.
Whether you discover Firefly through a school performance, a community event, or your child’s first audition, you’ll find a place that celebrates the little moments, encourages bold creativity, and believes theatre can shape confident, kind, and imaginative humans.
Mission
Firefly Creative is dedicated to bringing imaginative and engaging musical stories to life—empowering young performers on stage and inspiring audiences of all ages through the transformative magic of theatre.
ABOUT THE DIRECTOR
Oakley Weddle is the founder of Firefly Creative and has spent more than 16 years working on and off the stage with young performers across the Mid-South. Homeschooled throughout his childhood, Oakley experienced firsthand how theatre can provide community, structure, and formative “core memories” for young people. He now combines his professional experience in theatre, education, and communications to create high-quality, family-friendly productions that keep theatre within reach for all families.
Oakley holds a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and a master’s degree in Strategic Media from The University of Memphis. His theatre journey began with church plays and community theatre and expanded in high school while working at a local theatre company, where he directed, choreographed, and helped produce youth productions. These formative experiences shaped his belief in the power of theatre to connect, inspire, and build confidence, leading him to establish Firefly Creative.
His teaching emphasizes process over product and prioritizes the experience of every student. By giving young performers real responsibility, creative ownership, and leadership opportunities, Oakley uses theatre as a hands-on learning experience—one that helps students grow into confident, capable, and kind humans, while creating memories they will carry with them for life.