From The Director: Rose Riordan on "Kodachrome"
We were first introduced to Kodachrome in 2015 as part of JAW, our annual playwrights festival, when it was workshopped under the title Colchester. During the Big Weekend of public readings, it became clear that this play was special and one we wanted to premiere in an upcoming season. The new title, Kodachrome, is a nod to the central character, The Photographer, and to the process of life.
The story in this play is less about plot and more about the moments that we all live through. Each of the characters in the small, Northeastern town of Colchester are trying to connect — to love, to themselves, to someone else — or, in some cases, to disconnect. The Photographer is our narrator and witness. She knows the characters well and makes observations through her lens, not only as a photographer, but as a friend and fellow inhabitant of this town.
I like plays that ponder existence through small ordinary moments. As I’ve been preparing to go into rehearsals, I keep thinking about this quote from the play that shall not be named:
Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow,
Creeps in this petty pace from day to day,
To the last syllable of recorded time;
And all our yesterdays have lighted fools
The way to dusty death. Out, out, brief candle!
Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player,
That struts and frets his hour upon the stage,
And then is heard no more. It is a tale
Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury,
Signifying nothing.
Mr. Shakespeare. Such a way with words.
More about Kodachrome:
Reviews of "Kodachrome"
"Kodachrome is somewhere between an ensemble love story, a mischievous comedy and a supernatural dream."
NEA Grant for JAW: A Playwrights Festival 2018
We've been selected to receive a $15,000 Art Works grant from the National Endowment for the Arts for JAW festival 2018.
Winter Improv Labs
Grow from "yes, and..." to your first completely improvised scene in Improv Labs at The Armory. Take one for fun or both to master your improv skills!
"The Color of Longing" Art Exhibit
Through the run of Kodachrome, enjoy "The Color of Longing," a collection of photographs curated by our neighbors at Blue Sky Gallery.
Behind the Scenes of "Kodachrome"
Get a sneak peek look at Adam Szymkowicz's new play about love in unlikely places directed by Rose Riordan.
A Brief History of Kodak's Kodachrome
Explore the history of the iconic Kodachrome, one of the first successful color materials used for both cinematography and photography.
Playwriting Class with "Kodachrome" Playwright Adam Szymkowicz
Learn how to structure a play out of found text with Kodachrome playwright Adam Szymkowicz. February 10, 2-4 p.m.
Current & Upcoming
Improvisation Classes for Beginners
Whether you're looking to get more confident in social situations, think quicker on your feet, or get in touch with your imaginative side, these "one-off" improv classes will set you on the path to success!
Donate to the p:ear Giving Tree
Every winter, youth at p:ear are looking for basic needs such as socks, backpacks, bus tickets, gift cards, art supplies, and other items. The Giving Tree helps p:ear fuel their mission to provide mentoring services to Portland’s homeless and parent-less young people.
Winter Teen Academy: Scene Work
Calling all teens! Are you looking to expand your acting skills and be the best scene partner you can be for your fellow actors? In this class, we will dig deep into scene study, character motivation, and active listening, while learning the necessary questions to ask in every rehearsal situation. You'll develop fuller characters and deeper relationships on stage by partnering in scene work — and have lots of fun too!
Acting Shakespeare: Monologues
Dive into the world of the Bard and explore the excitement of performing Shakespeare!
Foundations of Improvisation
Looking to expand your knowledge and skills of improvisation? Whether you did theater in high school and want to jump back in, are looking to find creative connections with others, or are a theater professional looking to deepen your training, this course is perfect for you!
Join the Party! The fundraising party of the year!
Theater Lovers Bash is coming April 11, 2025! Featuring David Saffert and Jillian Snow back by popular demand in a special one-night-only performance as Liberace and Liza!
Portland Center Stage is committed to identifying & interrupting instances of racism & all forms of oppression, through the principles of inclusion, diversity, equity, & accessibility (IDEA).
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