Lan Su Garden Kicks off November With Floral Design Competition

Lan Su Garden Kicks off November With Floral Design Competition

Portland, OR. Move over pumpkins, the Lan Su Chinese Garden is welcoming fall with its Chrysanthemum Festival. The garden kicks off a month of floral programming in November with “Nights of the Golden Flower”, November 3-5th. This is the return of the popular chrysanthemum floral design showcase at the Chinese garden after a 4-years hiatus. (Photo credit Jeff Day Photography)

This juried floral art showcase and competition is headlined by floral artist Donald Yim with participation by over a dozen local floral artists. Ticketed guests will be treated to a special weekend of live music, floral design demonstrations, and large-scale illuminated floral art displays to enjoy in the garden after dark.

During November, Lan Su are visitors are invited to take part in floral art workshops, plant cultivation talks, horticulture tours, and delight in the garden adorned with Chrysanthemums. In traditional Chinese culture, the Chrysanthemum is considered one of the “four gentlemen” of plants (along with plum blossoms, orchids, and bamboo) and a symbol of autumn and perseverance.

Click here for a link to tickets to the chrysanthemum festival

From Lan Su Chinese Garden:

Lan Su Chinese Garden Located at 239 NW Everett Street, Lan Su Chinese Garden is one of Portland’s greatest treasures. A tranquil oasis in the heart of the city, Lan Su is a powerfully inspiring experience that takes you through time, offering a window into Chinese culture, history, and way of thinking. Lan Su Chinese Garden opens 10 am – 4 pm, Sunday through Saturday starting Oct. 15th. Admission is $14.00 with reduced rates for students and seniors. Admissions are available at www.lansugarden.org.

Local Arts Organizations are Gearing up for Fall

Local Arts Organizations are Gearing up for Fall

“The art form of opera has always been shaped by time, and we are excited to be part of its evolution,” shares Sue Dixon, General Director. “This season, we are thrilled to usher in new works, continue to share cultural touchstones, and share opera experiences on and off the stage, bringing our mission, vision, and values to life.”

And the Portland Opera isn’t the only arts organization gearing up. This fall promises to be an exciting season for arts enthusiasts, with a wide range of events and experiences to enjoy. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store from some of the city’s most prominent nonprofit arts organizations:

Oregon Symphony:
Oregon Symphony’s new season is getting underway. Featuring world-class musicians and a repertoire spanning classical to contemporary, this is a musical event not to be missed. Keep an eye out for special guest soloists and conductors throughout the season. First up: SEPTEMBER 30–OCTOBER 2, 2023 Mahler’s First Symphony.

Oregon Ballet Theatre:
Here’s a video about the Oregon Ballet Theatre’s upcoming season.

Portland Center Stage has a production of HAIR, September 30 – November 5, 2023

“Let the sunshine in! With an iconic score that changed pop culture forever, HAIR is as relevant today as it was when it radicalized a generation in 1968. This revolutionary rock musical tells the story of a group of counter-culturalists whose worlds are shaken when one of them receives his draft notice for the Vietnam War. Exploring ideas of identity, free love, community, global responsibility, and peace, HAIR reminds us that history is never far away — and that our collective voice is a powerful tool for change.”

Be sure to check each organization’s website for specific dates, ticket information, and any COVID-19 safety protocols that may be in place. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of Portland’s thriving arts community this autumn!

More about the Portland Opera’s season from the Opera:

Mozart’s comic masterpiece, The Marriage of Figaro, kicks off the season. Set in 18th-century Seville, the adventures of Figaro and Susanna unfold with wit and delight in this satire about nobility and power. Although written over 230 years ago, this empathetic comedy is an enduring example of Mozart’s sublime music, layered with a narrative that reflects on today’s society, too. The Marriage of Figaro will be performed at Keller Auditorium on October 28, November 3, and November 5 (matinee), 2023. The performances will be sung in Italian with English captions.

 

Next, the company will share an evening of music, song, and poetry entitled Enchanted Woods: Shakespeare & Song. Celebrating the anniversary of Shakespeare’s first folio, audience members enter Shakespeare’s woods: a literary place of transformation, love, and magic—with a program inspired by 20th century adaptations of his works. This production is curated in partnership with “Shakespeare’s First Folio: 1623–2023”, a public humanities project at Portland State University in collaboration with other regional arts organizations recognizing and celebrating Shakespeare’s legacy. This unique experience will include a “picnic” of feasting and libations, with cabaret-style seating. Enchanted Woods: Shakespeare & Song will take place at the Gregory K. and Mary Chomenko Hinckley Studio Theatre at the Hampton Opera Center on February 2, 3, 4m, 9, 10, and 11m, 2024. The performances will be sung in English with English captions.

Continuing the season, Portland Opera will present The Snowy Day, an opera in one act based on the beloved children’s book by Ezra Jack Keats. This heartwarming opera, with music by Joel Thompson and libretto by Andrea Davis Pinkney, follows the adventures of young Peter as he explores his snowy neighborhood, encountering new friends and unexpected wonders along the way. The Snowy Day is a perfect introduction to opera for young people, and a bittersweet reminder for audiences of all ages about impermanence and the wonders of youth. First premiered at Houston Grand Opera in 2021, Portland Opera’s production of The Snowy Day will mark the West Coast premiere, and the second production of this opera—continuing the company’s commitment to staging and supporting new works. The Snowy Day will take place at the Newmark Theatre on March 16, 22, and 24m, 2024. The performances will be sung in English with English captions. The matinee on March 24th will be family-friendly, a new way of welcoming the next generation of opera lovers to experience the beauty and joy of opera.

Finally, to mark the centennial of Giacomo Puccini’s passing, Portland Opera will close the 2023/24 season with Puccini: In Concert. Puccini’s works are arguably some of the most popular in opera, with more than 500 productions of La Bohème being performed around the world each year. This one-night-only concert will feature the enduring compositions from La Bohème, Madama Butterfly, Turandot, and Tosca on May 11, 2024, at Keller Auditorium. The performances will be sung in Italian with English captions.

In addition to mainstage programming, the 23/24 season will see continued progress toward the company’s strategic goal of curating collaborations or commissions that harness the creativity and spirit that is unique to this place. In the spring of 2024, Portland Opera will workshop the company’s commission of a new opera, Jubilee, by composer Damien Geter (Portland Opera’s interim Music Director and co-Artistic Advisor) and Librettist Lorene Cary. Connecting the heroic story of the original Fisk University Jubilee Singers with their current Grammy-winning descendants, Jubilee investigates Black legacy, love, death, trauma, and joy. Jubilee will be written for 8 operatic soloists and a 15-piece orchestra and will premiere in March 2026. In the coming weeks, the company will also announce a series of additional projects in development—including information about the next installment in its multi-year commitment to commission new operas about unsung Oregonian heroes for the Portland Opera to Go educational touring program, and special artist-curated public programming in addition to the mainstage subscription season. During the 23/24 season Portland Opera will also collaborate with the creative team of The Factotum, from Lyric Opera of Chicago, to support the development of this excellent and exciting new opera for a future season; as well as continue supporting the development of a new production based on Stephen King’s The Shining. Additional details about these exciting projects are forthcoming.

While new works remain in development, in fall of 2023 the company’s Portland Opera to Go educational division will present a 50-minute adaptation of Rossini’s La Cenerentola for communities throughout the region. Full of whimsy, comedy, and delight, Cinderella is the perfect first opera for kids and adults alike. This lively adaptation of Cinderella is ideal for elementary school students, with modular scenery and age-appropriate staging that focuses on multicultural and international versions of the Cinderella story. In addition to the performance, Portland Opera to Go offers an arts integrated curriculum and classroom visits.

Portland Opera will continue to share opera for free in unexpected places, with Opera a la Cart— Portland Opera’s award-winning mobile performance venue. The cart will be found around town in community gathering places throughout the summer months, at farmers’ markets, city parks, neighborhood festivals, street fairs, wineries and other public events through the Portland metro area and region.

After scaling down and adjusting the Portland Opera Resident Artist program during the pandemic, the company is delighted to welcome a new class of Portland Opera Resident Artists for the season, extending the program back to its 8-month cycle. The incoming roster of artists will be announced soon and will also include the new position of Resident Artist Collaborative Pianist. Portland Opera is grateful to supporters of the Resident Artist program, Community Foundation for Southwest Washington, James Cox and Brenda Nuckton, Eleanor Lieber Auditions Fund of The Oregon Community Foundation, Drs. Fernando and Dolores Leon, George Rowbottom, Drew and Sue Snyder, The Monday Musical Club of Portland, and Carol Turtle, for helping the company support this mission critical program during the ramp out of COVID impacts.

In addition to resident artist program, in 2021, Portland Opera piloted a new program to move the art form forward by providing career advancement opportunities for individuals who have been historically underrepresented in the world of opera, in both administrative and artistic roles. The 2023 Fellowship announcement is forthcoming, along with opportunities for community partnerships and free public performances.

Portland Opera continues a company-wide transformation for strategic growth and fiscal sustainability in the context of COVID interruptions and financial challenges. As a result, this year’s programming represents a smaller season that aligns with the company’s values as fiscally responsible stewards of Portland Opera and its future. To learn more about mission, vision, values, cultural equity, inclusion, diversity, or strategic planning progress, please visit portlandopera.org.

 

Portland Opera 2023/24 Season Casting

 

The Marriage of Figaro 

October 28, November 3, 5m, 2023

Keller Auditorium, 222 SW Clay

Sung in Italian with English captions

The performance is approximately 3 hours, performed with one intermission.

 

Composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Librettists Lorenzo Da Ponte
Count Richard Ollarsaba
Countess Esther Tonea
Figaro Jesús Vicente Murillo
Susanna Leela Subramaniam
Cherubino Deepa Johnny
Doctor Bartolo Matthew Burns
Marcellina Tesia Kwarteng
Also featuring the Portland Opera Resident Artists
Conductor Elizabeth Askren
Director Fenlon Lamb
Scenic Designer Cameron Poreous
Costume Designer Christine Richardson
Lighting Designer Connie Yun

The adventures of Figaro and Susanna unfold with wit and delight in this satire about nobility and power. Count Almaviva is determined to woo Susanna, who is engaged to Figaro—a servant in the household. The betrothed will do whatever it takes to navigate the Count’s advances; and the Countess—fed up with her husband’s infidelities—joins in the chaos, too. This empathetic comedy of twists and turns features sublime musical moments, a healthy dose of irreverence, and is a joyful reminder of our shared humanity.

Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro sparkles with arias, duets and trios that have captivated audiences for centuries, including “Voi che sapete” and “Sull’aria.” Experience this grand and traditional production, set in 18th century Seville, with the dazzling sounds of the Portland Opera chorus and orchestra.

Scenery & properties provided by Arizona Opera.

Enchanted Woods: Shakespeare & Song

February 2, 3, 4m, 9, 10, 11m, 2024

The Gregory K and Mary Chomenko Hinckley Studio Theatre at the Hampton Opera Center, 211 SE Caruthers Street

Sung in English with English captions

The performance is approximately one hour and 40 minutes, performed with an intermission.

Composed by Various composers
Curator & Featured Artist Katrina Galka
Also featuring the Portland Opera Resident Artists
Director Kristine McIntyre
Musical Direction Nicholas Fox

Enter Shakespeare’s forest: a place of magic, love and transformation. Here, to honor Shakespeare’s first folio, we’ll be immersed in an evening of story and song inspired by 20th century adaptations of his enduring works. Through sweet melody and poignant poetry, we’ll celebrate the natural magic of the bard—to honor that which enchants us still, four hundred years later.

Join us in the forest for a picnic, and toast to the magic of Shakespeare! This immersive experience will include cabaret-style seating, libations, as well as savory and sweet treats. We’ll soak in beautiful melodic and tonal music including works by Benjamin Britten, Betsy Jackson King, and other celebrated composers, as we travel through A Midsummer Night’s Dream, As You Like It, The Tempest, and more.

Featuring voice, piano, and a woodwind quintet from the Portland Opera Orchestra

 

The Snowy Day

March 16, 22, 24m, 2024

7:30 PM | 2PM Family friendly matinee

Newmark Theatre, 1111 SW Broadway, Portland

Sung in English with English captions.

 The performance is approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes performed without an intermission

Composed by Joel Thompson
Libretto by Andrea Davis Pinkney, based on the book by Ezra Jack Keats
Peter Flora Hawk
Mama Lianna Wimberley Williams
Billy Adrian Rosales
Also featuring the Portland Opera Resident Artists
Conductor Damien Geter
Director Omer Ben Seadia
Scenic Designer Amy Rubin
Costume Designer Jessica Jahn

Smiling snowmen, snow angels, and warm bubble baths: experience the magic of Ezra Jack Keats’ beloved children’s book come to life on the opera stage. The Snowy Day follows the adventures of young Peter as he explores his neighborhood on a snowy day, making new friends and encountering unexpected wonders along the way.

With music by Joel Thompson and libretto by Andrea Davis Pinkney, the west coast premiere of this new opera is a celebration of imagination, nature, and friendship. The Snowy Day is a perfect introduction to opera for young people, and a joyful reminder for audiences of all ages about impermanence and the wonders of youth.

Commissioned by the Houston Grand Opera
Premiered by Houston Grand Opera in December 2021
Special thanks to the Ezra Jack Keats Foundation

 

Puccini: In Concert

May 11, 2024, 7:30PM

Keller Auditorium, 222 SW Clay Street, Portland

Sung in Italian with English captions.

The performance is approximately 90 minutes, performed without an intermission.

Conductor Damien Geter
Soloist Malcolm MacKenzie
Soloist Karen Vuong
Soloist Anthony Kalil
Also featuring the Portland Opera Resident Artists

 

One hundred years after his death in 1924, we celebrate a one-night-only concert

featuring Giacomo Puccini’s enduring compositions. Experience the drama and passion of these cultural touchstones and iconic music, brought to life by an exciting ensemble of featured guest artists.

The performance will feature selections from Tosca, Turandot, Madama Butterfly, La Bohème, and more! The Portland Opera Orchestra and Chorus will take center stage in this unforgettable celebration of one of the world’s most beloved composers.

 

Subscriptions for Portland Opera’s 23/24 season are available now; and single tickets will be on sale on August 8, 2023. For more information, and to purchase subscriptions, visit portlandopera.org, or call Patron Services at 503-241-1802.

Portland Opera is grateful for the ongoing philanthropic support from our individual patrons and generous donors, James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation, National Endowment for the Arts, Oregon Arts Commission, Oregon Community Foundation, Regional Arts and Culture Council, including support from the City of Portland, Multnomah County, and the Arts Education & Access Fund, special support from The CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Fund, and The Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) program,

Dates, programming, artists, and details for Portland Opera’s 23/24 season are subject to change.

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Contact: Silja Tobin, Manager of Marketing and Communications; [email protected]

MEDIA:
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Patricia Reser Center for the Arts Announces  Inaugural 2022-23 Season Reser Presents programming

Patricia Reser Center for the Arts Announces Inaugural 2022-23 Season Reser Presents programming

Beaverton, OR. The Patricia Reser Center for the Arts (“The Reser”) announces its inaugural 2022-23 Reser Presents season, which includes an eclectic international mix of artists and performances. Pink Martini featuring China Forbes and Storm Large will open the season on September 16, 17, 18 in the intimate 550-seat Mainstage Theater.

This season, The Reser continues to be a vibrant cultural hub in the heart of Beaverton, Oregon. Season highlights include performances by Pink Martini, DakhaBrakha, Amythyst Kiah, Gina Chavez, The Heart of Afghanistan, Mark O’Connor, and many more…

The Patricia Reser Center for the Arts is the first performing arts center of its kind to be built in the Portland-metro area in more than 30 years.

Global Music

DakhaBrakha (2 performances) September 30 & October 1, 2022International Guitar Night February 2, 2023

Edna Vazquez February 3, 2023

Seffarine April 21, 2022

Heart of Afghanistan May 20, 2023

Intersections

Osvaldo Golijov’s Falling Out of Time November 1, 2022

Caroline Shaw & So Percussion November 11, 2022Joe Kye & The Givers May 19, 2023Intersections is a new Reser Presents series of genre-defying artists and attractions

 

Roots MusicAmythyst Kiah October 5, 2022

Watkins Family Hour November 13, 2022

Ron Artis and Thunderstorm Artis December 8, 2022

Gina Chavez March 11, 2023

 

Family Programming

Jazzy Ash & Red Yarn October 8, 2022

Smith and Yarn February 25, 2023Cenicienta: A Bilingual Cinderella Story March 4, 2023

 

Holiday Programming

Kalani Pe’a’s Hawaiian Christmas December 2, 2022Mark O’Connor’s Appalachian Christmas December 23, 2022

This wide-ranging season includes cutting-edge music, theater, and film by award-winning artists and emerging talent working across a broad range of disciplines.

 

“In The Reser’s inaugural season, we are excited to build on the success of this spring’s Grand Opening, and welcome these ‘must see’ artists to Beaverton. This season’s programming truly embodies our mission: to be a place where audiences can discover new favorites, build community, and leave inspired,” said Chris Ayzoukian, Executive Director of The Reser. “It has been exciting to watch thousands of our community members awestruck by the quality of this new gathering place and its programming. We see people connecting around joyous arts and culture experiences, all right here in Central Beaverton.”

The Reser Presents Inaugural 2022-23 Season schedule includes:

·               September 16, 17 & 18 – Pink Martini 

·               September 30 – DakhaBrakha (in concert)

·               October 1 – DakhaBrakha (performing a live score to the silent film, Earth by Alexander Dovzhenko)

·               October 5 – Amythyst Kiah

·               October 8 – Jazzy Ash & Red Yarn

·            November 1 – Osvaldo Golijov: Falling Out of Time

·               November 9 – Film The SixTripleEight – No Mail, Low Morale

·            November 11- Caroline Shaw & So Percussion (co-presentation with Third Angle New Music)

·               November 13 – Watkins Family Hour

·               December 2 – Kalani Pe’a’s Hawaiian Christmas

·            December 8 – Ron Artis II &Thunderstorm Artis

·               December 23 – Mark O’Connor’s Appalachian Christmas

·               February 2 – International Guitar Night

·               February 3 – Edna Vazquez

·               February 5 – Letters Aloud: The Road to Fame

·               February 25 – Smith and Yarn

·               March 4 – Cenicienta: A Bilingual Cinderella Story

·               March 11 – Gina Chavez

·               April 14 – Kingston Trio

·               April 21 – Seffarine

·               May 19 – Joe Kye & the Givers

·               May 20 – Heart of Afghanistan

For further details, continue to check The Reser’s website: thereser.org.

 

In addition to Reser Presents, The Reser is thrilled to host many performances and presentations by arts and culture organizations from across the Metro area. Performances by visiting presenters will be announced on a rolling basis and can be found here: thereser.org/shows-and-events.

 

Click here for high-res artist images and additional press materials.

 

About the Patricia Reser Center for the Arts

The Patricia Reser Center for the Arts (“The Reser”) unites artists, enthusiasts, individuals, and communities, linking each with a sense of shared purpose and a touch of the sublime. The Reser is the cultural heart of a flourishing community centered in Beaverton, OR. It continuously enhances the cultural life of the region, bringing people together in a space that’s warm and welcoming, and where the art we present invites discovery, wonder, and flights of imagination. The Reser eliminates barriers and thrives on access, shared experience, and open hearts. The Reser honors the cultures and customs of its diverse community and, using the awesome power of the arts, creates opportunities for deeper understanding and authentic connections between people. For more information, please visit: https://thereser.org/.

MISSION

We believe in the inherent magnificence of the arts and their extraordinary impact on everyday life. The mission of Patricia Reser Center for the Arts is to foster joy, imagination, connection, and understanding in our diverse community by presenting artistic, cultural, educational, and entertainment opportunities for all.

VISION

Patricia Reser Center for the Arts unites us as artists, enthusiasts, individuals, and communities, linking us all with a sense of shared purpose and a touch of the sublime. The Reser is the cultural heart of a flourishing community centered in Beaverton, Oregon. It continuously enhances the cultural life of our region, bringing people together in a space that’s warm and welcoming, and where the art we present invites discovery, wonder, and flights of imagination. This place eliminates barriers and thrives on access, shared experience, and open hearts. The Reser honors the cultures and customs of its diverse community and, using the awesome power of the arts, creates opportunities for deeper understanding and authentic connections between people.

COMMITMENTS TO THE COMMUNITY

We will present artistic, cultural, educational, and entertainment experiences of quality and relevance, performances and exhibitions that reflect the diverse interests and passions of the people we serve. We will present national and international artists and attractions; provide a performance home for regional arts organizations; promote the interests of artists; engage and develop new audiences; encourage participation in the arts; create opportunities for arts education; enhance the reputation of Beaverton as a regional destination; and strive always to be a genuine and indispensable contributor to the quality of life in our community. We will seek to counter privilege with equity and access and engage thoughtfully with the cultural aspirations of our entire community.

We will keep these commitments with a level of integrity, care, professionalism, and prudent management that honors the City of Beaverton for its extraordinary support and earns The Reser widespread recognition for the excellence of its programs and services.

Portland Opera Announces 2022/23 Season

Portland Opera Announces 2022/23 Season

Portland, OR. Portland Opera’s 2022/23 season will feature the cultural touchstone Carmen. Maya Lahyani (seen above) will make her Portland Opera debut in the title role of Carmen. Also on the schedule, Thumbprint, a new opera inspired by the story of Mukhtar Mai, a trailblazing Pakistani human rights activist; the company’s first production of the iconic and magical Dvořák opera Rusalka; and an exciting one-night-only concert featuring celebrated opera composer and jazz great Terence Blanchard. The season will also include the world premiere of a youth opera inspired by the life and experiences of Beatrice Cannady Morrow for the regional Portland Opera to Go tour, and additional community and educational programming throughout the year.

“It brings us great joy to present the 22/23 season to the city of Portland!” shares Priti Gandhi, Artistic Director. “This year signifies so much for us as a community. As we begin to reconnect with our neighbors, with ourselves – we invite you to come back and reconnect with the power of live opera once again. This is a season that will fill your soul with the thrill of powerful new voices, compelling stories, and brilliant music-making. As we bring beloved classics – as well as debut operas – to our stages, we continue our journey in embracing the many ways this beautiful art form expresses itself.”

Kelly Kaduce, Rusalka, with the water nymphs (Act 3)rin the Minnesota Opera Production of RUSALK

LA Opera’s presentation of Thumbprint, a contemporary opera-theatre work by Kamala Sankaram explores the deep family ties and tribal traditions that empowered Mukhtar Mai to become the first female gang-rape victim in Pakistan to bring her attackers to justice. In lieu of a financial settlement, she requested that a school be constructed for educating girls to help prevent the humiliation of signing their name with only a thumbprint. (Photo Credit: Lawrence K. Ho)

Portrait of musician Terence Blanchard at his home in New Orleans, LA.

The season begins with one of opera’s most loved works—Georges Bizet’s masterpiece Carmen. This grand production, the directorial vision of legendary mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves, will take place at Keller Auditorium November 5, 11, 13m, 2022. Featuring recognizable and melodic gems like the Habanera and the Toreador Song, Bizet’s opera is a true classic. “Portland Opera is excited to present Carmen, an opera that for many people was their first opera, or is their favorite opera,” says Damien Geter, Portland Opera’s Interim Music Director and Artistic Advisor. “The opera abounds with familiar tunes that have crossed into the realm of pop culture. We are so fortunate to be able to bring this timeless classic to Portland under the vision of the one of the world’s most beloved Carmens: Denyce Graves.”

The 2022/23 season continues with Thumbprint, a piece by composer Kamala Sankaram and librettist Susan Yankowitz inspired by the story of Mukhtar Mai—a trailblazing Pakistani human rights activist who is a victim of sanctioned gang rape. “We want to tell human stories that can empower, and lift up women,” shares Sue Dixon, General Director. “Thumbprint does this beautifully when Mukhtar Mai chooses to advocate for her life over the tradition of suicide when dishonor comes to her Pakistani family. Her continued fight for justice for all women, serves as a beacon of hope for those who find themselves in impossible situations.” Portland Opera will present 4 performances of Thumbprint, March 18, 22, 24, 26m, 2023 at the Newmark Theatre.

In April 2023, Portland Opera will present Antonín Dvořák’s Rusalka for the first time in the company’s history. This piece, based on a centuries-old folktale with roots in Slavic mythology, tells the story of a water nymph who falls in love with a prince. “The world of magical creatures and mermaids exists just beyond our realm, waiting in long-ago memories,” shares Priti Gandhi, Artistic Director. “Dvořák’s lush and richly textured soundscape takes this world and transforms it into a musical experience that gently settles into your soul. When the water sprite Rusalka sings her famous “Song to the Moon”, yearning for her human lover, one feels the touch of magic and childhood again.” Portland Opera will present 3 performances of Rusalka April 22, 28, 30m, 2023 at Keller Auditorium.

On May 26, 2023, Portland Opera will welcome jazz great and celebrated opera composer Terence Blanchard to the company for the first time with a special one-night-only concert “Absence: Terence Blanchard featuring the E-Collective and Turtle Island Quartet.” This special event, conducted by Portland Opera’s Interim Music Director and Co-Artistic Advisor Damien Geter, will feature guest soloists soprano Karen Slack, Portland Opera’s co-artistic advisor, and Will Liverman, who was last seen with the company in La Bohème in 2017, as well as the talented musicians of the Portland Opera Orchestra. “What an honor to share the stage with my dear friend the extraordinary Grammy award-winning trumpeter and composer Terence Blanchard,” says Karen Slack. “A prolific artist and an American treasure! I am filled with both gratitude and excitement that Portland Opera is presenting him alongside the thrilling E-Collective band, Turtle Island Quartet and the magnificent baritone Will Liverman. This promises to be a night the city of Portland won’t forget!”

During the 2022/23 season, the company will also continue its commitment to education and community engagement, including Portland Opera to Go, a program that travels to schools and communities throughout the region with 50-minute operas. This fall, Portland Opera will share the world premiere of a new opera inspired by the life and history of Beatrice Morrow Cannady—a renowned civil rights advocate and the co-founder of the Portland, Oregon chapter of the NAACP. Created with composer Dave Ragland and librettist Marry McCallum, this new commission is designed for school and family audiences, with curriculum targeted for students in fourth through 9th grades. This production is set to tour schools and communities throughout the state and region. “We know that the community is still struggling with impacts from school closures during the pandemic,” explains Alexis Hamilton, Manager of Education and Community Engagement. “We are hoping to use our operatic superpowers to help our educational partners re-engage with arts learning and live events as we share Beatrice’s story while helping students to understand the future by engaging and empathizing with our past.”“The ability to realize our mission, vision, and values continues to grow in these moments when we share this beautiful art form together,” adds Sue Dixon, General Director, “and that happens not just on stage or in the recital hall, but in classrooms, in community gatherings, in our business practices, at every level.” Throughout the season, Portland Opera will produce a host of community engagement activities and professional development initiatives. Opera a la Cart, Portland Opera’s mobile performance venue that brings live opera performance directly into the community spaces where people gather will be found around town again in 2022, along with pop-up performances that have become part of Portland Opera’s community activities during pandemic closures. The company will welcome a new class of Portland Opera Resident Artists back to the revamped program for an 11-week intensive and will announce a new roster of artists in the coming weeks. In addition to the program for emerging artists, the company recently piloted a new program for BIPOC artists/administrators, named Portland Opera’s Ensemble Leaders Fellowship program. The 2022 Fellowship announcement is forthcoming, along with opportunities for local internships, community partners, and free public performances. To learn more about cultural equity, inclusion, diversity, or strategic planning progress, please visit portlandopera.org.

Here are more details about the season: 

Portland Opera 2022/23 Season Casting

Carmen – Georges BizetNovember 5, 11, 13m, 2022

 

Keller Auditorium, 222 SW Clay

Sung in French with English captions 

The performance is approximately 3 hours, performed with one intermission. 

In addition to the ticketed performances at Keller Auditorium, digital access will be available for a limited time on Portland Opera Onscreen.  

 

 

Composer

Georges Bizet

Librettists

Henri Meilhac & Ludovic Halévy

Carmen

Maya Lahyani

Don José

Matthew Pearce

Escamillo

Richard Ollarsaba

Micaëla

Ariana Wehr

Zuniga

Darren Drone

El Dancairo

Zachary Lenox

 

Conductor

Michael Ellis Ingram

Original Production & Staging

Denyce Graves

Associate Director and Choreographer 

Eric Sean Fogel

Scenery & Properties Designer 

Riccardo Hernandez

Costume Designer 

Oana Botez

Lighting Designers 

Robert Wierzel & Amith Chandrashaker

Set in early 1820s in Seville, Spain. Carmen is a factory worker, free spirit, and the toast of the town. She is brave, beautiful, and independent. She falls in and out of love like “a rebellious bird that no one can tame.” Then one day, in the busy streets outside of the bullfighting ring, her ex violently and tragically rejects her choice to move on.

Known for her legendary portrayal of the title role of Carmen, Denyce Graves makes her directorial debut with this production, which will first be staged by Minnesota Opera in May. Eric Sean Fogel makes his Portland Opera debut as Associate Director and Choreographer, along with conductor Michael Ellis Ingram, who leads the Portland Opera Orchestra and Chorus.

Mezzo-soprano Maya Lahyani, a regular on the Metropolitan Opera stage, makes her Portland Opera debut in the title role of Carmen, a role she has previously sung with San Francisco Opera, Arizona Opera, and Opera Maine. Matthew Pearce, currently a Cafritz Young Artist at Washington National Opera, makes his Portland Opera debut as Don José. The cast also features Richard Ollarsaba as Escamillo, Ariana Wehr as Micaëla, and Darren Drone as Zuniga, all in their company debuts, as well Zachary Lenox, last seen on the Portland Opera stage in the 2021 production of Tosca, as Sciarrone.

Thumbprint – Kamala SankaramMarch 18, 22, 24, 26m, 2023

Newmark Theatre, 1111 SW Broadway

Sung in English with English captions 

The performance is approximately ninety minutes, performed without an intermission.  

In addition to the ticketed performances at the Newmark Theatre, digital access will be available for a limited time on Portland Opera Onscreen 

 

Composed by

Kamala Sankaram

Libretto by

Susan Yankowitz

 

Mukhtar 

Maya Kherani

Mother/Minister/Reporter 

Indira Mahajan

Father/Judge/Reporter/Mastoi 

TBA

Faiz/Police/Reporter/Villager 

Alok Kumar

Shakur/Abdul/Imam/Reporter/Mastoi/Villager 

Omar Najmi

Annu/Young Girl/Reporter 

Samina Aslam

 

Conductor

Maria Badstue

Director

Omer Ben Seadia

Thumbprint is inspired by the story of Mukhtar Mai—a trailblazing Pakistani human rights activist who is a victim of sanctioned gang rape. She defied expectations to take her own life after the attack, deciding to live and seek justice. Her hope: open a village school for girls to learn to read and write, so that they may avoid the humiliation of signing their names with only a thumbprint.

          

This libretto originates from a series of interviews with Mai, paired with a score that is a dynamic collision of Hindustani and European opera influences. This piece features flute, violin, viola, upright bass, piano, and percussion.

Conductor Maria Badstue, recipient of a prestigious 2019-2021 Taki Alsop Conducting Fellowship, makes her Portland Opera debut conducting Thumbprint. Omer Ben Seadia, whose recent credits include productions at Houston Grand Opera, Canadian Opera Company, and Calgary Opera, makes her debut as stage director.

Soprano Maya Kherani, whose credits include roles with Glyndebourne, Opera San José, and a recent performance locally with the Portland Baroque Orchestra, makes her company debut in the role of Mukhtar Mai. Soprano Indira Mahajan, winner of the Kennedy Center’s Marian Anderson Vocal Award, makes her Portland Opera debut as Mukhtar’s Mother, the Minister, and Reporter. Tenor Alok Kumar, whose recent credits include roles at the Metropolitan Opera, Royal Opera House Covent Garden, and Los Angeles Opera, makes his debut as Faiz, Police Office, Reporter, and Villager. Also making their Portland Opera debuts, tenor Omar Najmi sings the roles of Shakur, Abdul, Imam, Reporter, Mastoi, and Villager, and soprano Samina Aslam sings the roles of Annu, Young Girl, and Reporter.

Originally commissioned by Beth Morrison Projects and the Here Center for the Prototype Festival, Thumbprint premiered in 2014 at the Baruch Performing Arts Center.

 

Mukhtar Mai is still striving for change, justice, and safety. Learn more about The Mukhtar Mai Women’s Organization and her activism at portlandopera.org 

 

 

Rusalka – Antonín DvořákApril 22, 28, 30M, 2023

Keller Auditorium, 222 SW Clay Street, Portland

Sung in Czech with English captions. 

The performance is approximately 3 hours, performed with two intermissions.  

 

In addition to the ticketed performances at Keller Auditorium, digital access will be available for a limited time on Portland Opera Onscreen  

Composed by

Antonín Dvořák

Libretto by

Jaroslav Kvapil based on the fairy tales of Karel Jaromír Erben and Božena  Němcová

 

Rusalka

Karen Vuong

The Prince

Limmie Pulliam

Vodnik “The Spirit of the Lake”

Andrew Potter

Ježibaba

Jill Grove

The Foreign Princess

Othalie Graham

 

Conductor

Elias Grandy

Director

Eric Simonson

Scenery and Properties Designer 

Erhard Rom

Costume Designer 

Kärin Kopischke

Projection Designer 

Wendall K. Harrington

Lighting design 

Robert Wierzel

 

In this centuries-old folktale with roots in Slavic mythology, a water nymph falls in love with a prince. With the help of the moon and a witch, she defies her father’s advice— giving up her home and voice to win the prince’s love on dry land. When it does not go to plan, the regretful prince seeks redemption, and heartbreak reigns in the land of true love.

Elias Grandy, General Music Director of the Opera and Philharmonic Orchestra Heidelberg makes his Portland Opera debut conducting Rusalka. Eric Simonson, writer and director for film, television, theatre, and opera, makes his company debut as stage director. Scenery and Properties are designed by Erhard Rom, costumes are designed by Kärin Kopischke, projections are designed by Wendall K. Harrington, and lighting is designed by Robert Wierzel.

Soprano Karen Vuong, whose recent credits include roles with Seattle Opera, Washington National Opera, and Tiroler Festspiele, makes her Portland Opera debut in the title role of Rusalka. Tenor Limmie Pulliam, whose recent credits include roles with the Los Angeles Opera, and Vashon Opera, makes his debut as the Prince. Mezzo-soprano Jill Grove makes her company debut as Ježibaba, a role she has sung with Lyric Opera of Chicago, Houston Grand Opera, as well as New Orleans Opera. Also making their Portland Opera debuts are bass Andrew Potter as Vodnik “The Spirit of the Lake,” and soprano Othalie Graham as the Foreign Princess.

Scenery, properties, projections, and costumes for this production were constructed by Minnesota Opera Shops and are owned by Minnesota Opera and Boston Lyric Opera.  

 

 

Absence: Terence Blanchard featuring the E-Collective and Turtle Island Quartet 

A One-night-only ConcertMay 26, 2023, 8:00PM

Keller Auditorium, 222 SW Clay Street, Portland

Sung in English with English captions. 

The performance is approximately 1 hour, 50 minutes. 

 

  

Conductor

Damien Geter

Soloist

Karen Slack

Soloist

Will Liverman

 

E-Collective 

Trumpet/Synths

Terence Blanchard

Guitar

Charles Altura

Piano/Keyboard/Synths

Taylor Eigsti

Electric Bass

David Ginyard, Jr.

Drums

Oscar Seaton

 

Turtle Island Quartet  

Violin

David Balakrishnan

Violin

Gabriel Terracciano

Viola

Benjamin von Gutzeit

Cello

Naseem Alatrash

 

In May 2023, Portland Opera will welcome two-time Oscar nominee, six-time Grammy-winner, and acclaimed opera composer (Fire Shut Up In My Bones and Champion) Terence Blanchard to the Keller Auditorium for an exciting one-night-only gala celebration.

This special event, conducted by interim music director and co-artistic advisor Damien Geter, will feature the E-Collective, Turtle Island Quartet, guest soloists soprano Karen Slack, Portland Opera’s co-artistic advisor, and Will Liverman, as well as the talented musicians of the Portland Opera Orchestra.

This performance is an optional addition to a season subscription. Single tickets are available from $35. A limited number of post-show celebration reception tickets are available for $250, in part as a tax-deductible contribution in support of Portland Opera’s bright future.

Subscriptions for Portland Opera’s 22/23 season are available now; and single tickets will be on sale on May 24. For more information, and to purchase subscriptions, visit portlandopera.org, or call Patron Services at 503-241-1802.

Portland Opera appreciates the ongoing support of our generous donors, The Collins Foundation, James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation, National Endowment for the Arts, Oregon Arts Commission, Oregon Community Foundation, Regional Arts and Culture Council, including support from the City of Portland, Multnomah County, and the Arts Education & Access Fund, special support from The CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Fund, and The Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) program. 

Dates, programming, artists, and details for Portland Opera’s 22/23 season are subject to change. Portland Opera is committed to the health and safety of our audiences, artists, and company members. The company is working with health authorities and medical advisors to continue to adhere with local, state, and federal guidelines. To create a safe and enjoyable experience for all, Portland Opera may implement staff and patron precautions, which may include face coverings, symptom screenings, temperature checks or other recommended safety measures.  

Oregon Ballet Theatre Fans Will Sink Their Teeth into Dracula

Oregon Ballet Theatre Fans Will Sink Their Teeth into Dracula

Portland, OR. Oregon Ballet Theater (OBT) has announced it will take a uniquely Portland approach to the month of love with the premiere of Ben Stevenson’s Dracula.  It’s based on Bram Stoker’s 1897 gothic novel of the same title. (Photo credit, Kat Luber courtesy Tulsa Ballet). The music is by Franz Liszt and will be performed live by the OBT Orchestra.

Set in the 1800s, the story follows Count Dracula’s fascination with his lawyer’s fiancée, Mina, after losing his beloved wife, Elizabeth, to suicide.

Ben Stevenson, the choreographer of this ballet, has created dozens of full-length ballets for companies in the U.S. and abroad. To create Dracula, Stevenson used the format of the great story ballets of the 19th century.

Here’s more information from OBT:

Dissatisfied with his bevy of undead brides, Count Dracula fixates on Svetlana, a young girl on the cusp of engagement, to satiate his thirst for fresh blood. Abducted by Dracula’s faithful henchman Renfield, Svetlana is dragged away to the Count’s castle from where she may never escape but for the heroism of her true love, Frederick.

Recommended for ages 8 and up.

Showtimes & Tickets

Buy Tickets to Dracula

• Please note the that OBT Box Office is currently unavailable for walk-up sales at our Bancroft studio location.
• All patrons are required to show proof of vaccination or negative Covid-19 test taken within 72 hours of the performance. Details HERE

Purchase with confidence! Our priority is the health and safety of our patrons. We recognize that it may be difficult to plan during these uncertain times, that’s why we have adjusted our exchange and refund policies on future programming that may be impacted by the COVID-19 virus. Read MORE.

About Oregon Ballet Theatre:

OBT is the largest professional ballet company in Oregon, employing nearly 200 people and attracting artists from around the globe with our reputation for excellence. The company is rooted in the traditions of classical ballet, with a repertoire that ranges from the great classics to premieres from some of the most exciting choreographic voices in the field today. Our mission is dedicated to the vitality of, and access to, world-class ballet performance and training in our region.

February 4th is National Wear Red Day for Heart Health Awareness

February 4th is National Wear Red Day for Heart Health Awareness

Portland, OR. Women who think they’re healthy often misread the symptoms of a heart attack because they don’t think it could happen to them. That’s why it’s crucial to learn about heart attacks, know your numbers and live heart-healthy. Now is a good time to review some basics about the Warning Signs & Symptoms of Heart Attack and Stroke.

Heart attack and stroke are life-or-death emergencies — every second counts. If you think you or someone you’re with has any symptoms of heart attack or stroke, call 911 immediately. The Oregon Chapter of the American Heart Association has some important information about heart health.

Signs and Symptoms of Heart Attack

If you have any of these signs, call 9-1-1 and get to a hospital right away.

  1. Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of your chest. It lasts more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back.
  2. Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
  3. Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
  4. Other signs such as breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.
  5. As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort.

    But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back or jaw pain.

What do I do if I’m having a heart attack?

If you experience any of these signs or symptoms:

  • Dial 911 immediately, follow the operator’s instructions and get to a hospital right away.
  • Don’t drive yourself to the hospital.
  • Try to stay as calm as possible and take deep, slow breaths while you wait for the emergency responders.

There is a technique called Hands-Only CPR that is recommended if you should see a person who needs CPR. Here’s a video about it:

Signs and Symptoms of Stroke

If you have any of these signs, call 9-1-1 and get to a hospital right away.

  1. Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
  2. Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
  3. Sudden trouble seeing or blurred vision in one or both eyes
  4. Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
  5. Sudden severe headache with no known cause

From the Oregon Chapter of the American Heart Association:

A Culture of Health in Oregon & SW Washington

We’re working to create a world free of heart disease and stroke – a world where everyone can live your healthiest life. We know that true health is influenced by the places you live, learn, play and pray. Our work in Oregon & SW Washington includes working with local industries to improve the health of workers, increasing access to healthy food in our community, teaming up with city and state leaders to promote health policies, and providing our kids with more opportunities to be active in school.

Contact Us

4380 SW Macadam Avenue #480
Portland, OR 97239
(503) 820-5300

Oregon Zoo Offers Two Experiences For ZooLights This Holiday Season

Oregon Zoo Offers Two Experiences For ZooLights This Holiday Season

PORTLAND, OR. Whether you want to explore ZooLights from the comfort of your own car or walk around with your family and friends, Portland Zoo has an ‘enLIGHTening’ experience for you.

ZooLights Walk Night allows you to walk through a display of more than 1.5 million lights with your family and friends, while ZooLights Drive Nights in January lets you explore the magic while in your car.

Visitors drive through ZooLights.

A child and adult enjoy ZooLights on foot

This ZooLights event is presented by the U.S. Bank. Open Nov. 19, 2021 to Jan. 9, 2022 (excluding Christmas Day, Dec. 25), advance timed online tickets required; no walk-up ticket sales

ZooLights is a separately ticketed event. Admission to ZooLights is not included with a daytime admission ticket. All daytime visitors must leave the zoo when the zoo closes at 4:00 p.m. to prepare for ZooLights, even if you have the same night ticket for ZooLights. Your ZooLights admission ticket will be scanned for separate entry at that time.

The zoo comes alive in animal-themed lights, however no animals will be viewable at this event.

All reservations must be made online.

Discounted ZooLights admission is available for Oregon and Washington individuals and families who qualify for a variety of income assistance programs. To see if you are eligible and to purchase tickets visit Oregon Zoo Discounts.

For more information, visit: shop.oregonzoo.org/#/SpecialEvents/ZooLightsDrive

 

Wy’East Mountain Academy Launches Financial Aid Program With Fundraiser

Wy’East Mountain Academy Launches Financial Aid Program With Fundraiser

Portland, OR. Wy’East Mountain Academy is an outdoor-oriented, action sports academy designed to develop students in the classroom as well as in the outdoors. The organization is launching a nonprofit foundation to help offer financial aid to students who otherwise would not be able to attend.

Most students attending Wy’East Mountain Academy are enrolled in Edgenuity, an accredited online elementary and secondary school. The school’s web-based curriculum meets Oregon state standards while licensed teachers provide the instruction online.

The academy enrolls students ages 12 to 19 who want to combine a rigorous academic setting with skiing, snowboarding, skateboarding, mountain biking, and other outdoor recreation sports.

Wy’East Mountain Academy offers sport-specific coaching that facilitates athletic progression at all levels, from just starting out to competing professionally. Its first annual Good in the Woods fundraising celebration will be held on Friday, December 17th, 2021. The goal is to bring families and supporters together to celebrate the new 501c3 not-for-profit status and to raise $50,000 in scholarship funds so administrators can extend the Wy’East Mountain Academy experience to more students. To help reach the goal, there is a Penny for Penny match on all proceeds raised.

Student at Wy’East academy on graduation day.

The school holds a parent’s weekend each year.

Kevin English, Academy President, explains the plan to raise $50,000. “The goal of Good in the Woods is to help raise funds for tuition assistance. When you look at any of these sports we’re talking about, they’re incredibly resource-intense, these are not inexpensive sports in the first place, and then you couple that with a boarding school, it really limits the number of people who can afford to do something like this.”

Unique silent bid items include fun items like snowboarding & skiing gear, IKON pass, renowned action sports photography, and airline tickets. “Adversity is nothing new to this school,” English said when talking about challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Our team, coming from this action-sports world, is really all about risk mitigation. When you’re a high-performance athlete, that’s all you’re doing, you’re never eliminating risk, but just learning to mitigate existing risks and I think that’s what we’ve done with the school and we’ve navigated it rather well.”

From Wy’East Mountain Academy:

Wy’East Mountain Academy (formerly Windells Academy) is a world-class outdoor-oriented, action sports academy designed to develop driven and talented students in the classroom as well as in the outdoors. Wy’East enrolls students ages 12 to 19 who want to combine a rigorous academic setting with skiing, snowboarding, skateboarding, mountain biking and other outdoor recreation sports. To this end, we offer sport-specific coaching that facilitates athletic progression at all levels, from just starting out to competing professionally. We enable students to learn, train and participate in sports year-round while attaining high school or college credits that are transferable in or out of any US accredited school, national or international.

The meaning of Wy’East.

“Wy’East” is the original name for Mt. Hood, given by the Multnomah people who first inhabited its nearby lands. That this mountain draws us together is central to our spirit of adventure and achievement. It is this special place we call home and to which we pay homage.

What we believe.

Our mission is life improvement through people, place, and passion. We believe that if you put the right people in the right place, with shared passions and college preparatory academics, you’ll not just improve the life of young person, but change the world by helping to create driven and compassionate citizens.

Our vision is to be a top ten globally rated outdoor academy with alumni who are helping to improve the world.

Our core values are embodied in these words:

* Relationship-Based * Refreshing * Influential * Authentic * Welcoming *Uninhibited * Genuine *Credible *

* Progressive * Caring * Socially Responsible and Community-Minded * Passionate * Purpose Driven * Humorous *

* Imaginative * Diverse Perspectives *

For more information or ways to contribute, check out the website, or email [email protected].

OSU President’s Dinner Honors Major Donors With Hybrid Event

OSU President’s Dinner Honors Major Donors With Hybrid Event

Portland, OR. Oregon State University supporters celebrated the impact of philanthropy at the President’s Dinner on October 26th. It was a multi-access event for 150 in-person guests at the Portland Art Museum and additional 200 participants online. Alumni emcees Lamar Hurd from Trail Blazers Broadcasting and Cathy Marshall of KGW Television (pictured above) led the program filled with stories of students and faculty.

Organizers say, “With this year’s President’s Dinner, we were able to blend the best of both worlds and offer guests the choice of how they wanted to participate. Our in-person offering was designed with COVID safety in mind – vaccination required and a smaller number of attendees than in the past. We also got creative with ways to connect our in-person guests with those joining virtually. We had a live chat feature and placed iPads on each table to help make sure our in-person and virtual guests has a shared experience.”

The OSU Foundation hosted the event, celebrating a record 25 households and organizations that have recently joined the Milton Harris Society, which honors OSU donors for lifetime gift commitments of $1 million or more.

The OSU Foundation hosted the event, celebrating a record 25 households and organizations that have recently joined the Milton Harris Society, which honors OSU donors for lifetime gift commitments of $1 million or more.

OSU Foundation President and CEO Shawn Scoville said, “One silver lining of the pandemic has been finding new ways of engaging alumni and friends in the life of the university, regardless of where they live.”

OSU Interim President Becky Johnson discussed OSU’s work related to the pandemic and climate impacts, aided by donors who invest in faculty. “I’m proud that OSU is a leader in providing access to affordable higher education among top research institutions,” she continued. “This year’s entering class is the most diverse in our history. About one-fourth of Corvallis students and one-third of OSU-Cascades students are the first in their families to attend college. Much of this would not be possible without your support, and I’m profoundly grateful for your generosity.”

Here’s a video about the new members of the Milton Harris Society:

From Oregon State University Foundation:

Here’s a list of the new Milton Harris Society members:

Robin & W. Charles “Chuck” Armstrong, ’66
Todd A. Baker, ’94
Eastern Oregon Coordinated Care Organization
Susan Hamm Fritz, ’69, & Dennis W. Fritz, ’64, M.S. ’67
Kristin Gilley Fritz, ’88, & Michael W. Fritz, ’88
Robert M. Goldstein, ’77
Sheila and J. Michael Goodwin
Eric H.I. Hoffman, ’79, & Janice Kelleher Hoffman, ’81
Marilyn & Ronald R. Hudson, ’69
Paula D. & Kenneth S. Krane
Marilyn K. & Russell V. Kuhns, ’68
Christine Pullin Levy, ’70, & Thomas H. Levy, ’70
Lone Rock Resources
David A. Montagne, ’87
Dixie L. & Kelly C. Morgan, ’79
Northwest Farm Credit Services
Gwendolyn A. & Michael D. Purdy, ’76
Roy L. Rogers, ’56, Family
Roundhouse Foundation
Kelly K. Douglas & Eric H. Schoenstein, ’88
Nancy Billingsley Searles, ’71, & V. Kent Searles, ’71
Linda K. & Murray L. Smith, ’59
Nancy M. & Edwin M. Squires
Sunderland Foundation
Unique Botanicals LLC
 

Watch videos from the 2021 President’s Dinner:

The Oregon State University Foundation seeks to create a better world by inspiring support of – and for – OSU. The OSU Foundation partners with OSU to engage the community, inspire investment and steward resources to enhance the university’s excellence and impact.

Autism Society of Oregon Holds In-Person Fundraising Walk

Autism Society of Oregon Holds In-Person Fundraising Walk

Portland, OR. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic prompted the Autism Society of Oregon (ASO) to shift towards a virtual walk fundraiser rather than their standard in-person event. This year the organization is back in full swing for its annual Autism Walk fundraiser at Oaks Park in SE Portland on August 15th. The event will include a wide variety of fun activities for individuals with autism and their supporters.

ASO says the event will be “a family-friendly, autism-friendly community event celebrating the people we love on the autism spectrum.” Some of these activities include the half-mile walk that gives the event its namesake, a photo booth, a water display courtesy of Portland Fire and Rescue, and sewing/needlecrafts with PDX Stitch. Additionally, the nonprofit has partnered with several local groups and organizations such as Cosplay Characters for Kindness and Portland Ghostbusters who dress up as fictional characters and attend charity events for photos and to make attendees smile. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 concerns, the event will not include face painting as it normally would in a non-pandemic year. Those interested in attending the Autism Walk can register for the event to help raise funds for it here.

A group of people dresses as Star Wars characters hold the ASO banner at a previous event.

All funds raised for the Autism Walk will go towards ASO’s various programs and resources designed to support people on the autism spectrum. ASO aims to maximize the quality of life of Oregonians on the autism spectrum, guiding them towards self-determination and working to end societal stigmas against autism. Money raised at this event will be used to create further educational materials on what autism is, and resources for those on the spectrum and their families such as a sensory booklet and cookbook which can be downloaded off the organization’s website. In addition to informational resources, funding for ASO will also go towards the organization’s initiatives to directly support those affected by autism and their families, including the “take a break” and “take a breather” programs which put vouchers or tickets for activities or monetary funds into the hands of autistic Oregonians and their caregivers.

In addition to these programs, ASO also hosts workshops, classes, and webinars to educate Oregon about autism and how to approach it. Further, the organization has supplied its supporters with a directory of support groups for those with autism as well as a comprehensive list of scholarships and financial aid for autistic individuals to apply to. All of these helpful and informative resources can be supported by registering for the Autism Walk fundraiser this Sunday, the 15th from 9:00 AM- 12:00 PM. Registering for the event will also make those interested in attending eligible for a discount coupon on ride bracelets at Oaks Park, to be used at noon once the rides open. Ride bracelets for the event at Oaks Amusement Park can be purchased here.

A large crowd in attendance at a previous Autism Walk event hosted by ASO. The organization expects lower attendance in 2021 than in previous years due to COVID-19 concerns.

For other ways to support ASO’s mission, the organization has have a donation page on its website. If readers would like to attend other upcoming events hosted or sponsored by the organization, all upcoming events can be found within the Autism Society of Oregon’s event calendar.