Portland Center Stage logo
128 NW Eleventh Ave, Portland, OR 97209 · 503-445-3700 · www.pcs.org
Portland Center Stage logo

The Body of an American

The Body of an American
October 2 – November 4, 2012
In the Ellyn Bye Studio

The Body of an American

  • By Dan O’Brien
  • Directed by Bill Rauch
  • Inspired in part by the book Where War Lives by Paul Watson

JUMP TO: Dates, Run Time, Playbill, & More

War reporter Paul Watson has witnessed some of the most devastating scenes in modern history, and created perhaps the most disturbing image of modern warfare: the photograph of a dead American soldier being dragged through the streets of Mogadishu. As the ghosts of the tragedies he’s recorded bear down on him, his story catches the attention of playwright Dan O’Brien, who’s battling ghosts of his own. In locations as varied as Kabul, Los Angeles and the Canadian High Arctic, the two men form a tentative friendship in a quest for absolution. The Body of an American is the story of their relationship, and the roles each take in helping the other process the responsibilities, and the damages, of bearing witness.

The Body of an American was a highlight at JAW in 2011; PCS is pleased to welcome Oregon Shakespeare Festival Artistic Director Bill Rauch for his first show here, part of our 25th Anniversary celebration.


The Body of an American Photo

More Photos

The Body of an American Photos & Artwork
Tap Image for More

Portland Center Stage is committed to identifying & interrupting instances of racism & all forms of oppression, through the principles of inclusion, diversity, equity, & accessibility (IDEA).

Learn More