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128 NW Eleventh Ave, Portland, OR 97209 · 503-445-3700 · www.pcs.org
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The first page of the U.S. Constitution on yellowed parchment cropped to highlight the words "We the People" and a portion of Article I.

The United States Constitution

A brief history and description of America's founding document, to help you prepare for What the Constitution Means to Me.

Smiling men and women wearing black robes pose side-by-side in a wood-paneled room; image is cropped so only 6 of 9 justices are visible.

The Supreme Court

As background for What the Constitution Means to Me, read about the origins, role, powers, and current makeup of the United States Supreme Court.

Smiling men and women wearing black robes pose side-by-side in a wood-paneled room; image is cropped so only 6 of 9 justices are visible.

Women’s Rights Movements

At the core of What the Constitution Means to Me is the lack of explicit inclusion of women's rights in the U.S. Constitution. Often called the Feminist Movement, the pursuit of women’s rights has taken several “waves” as the needs of women have evolved over time.

A woman stands with one hand on her hip and one hand to her forehead, partially covering her closed eyes.

Intimate Partner & Family Violence

In What the Constitution Means to Me, the main character, Heidi, describes several instances of domestic violence and violence towards women. The following information was provided to the creative team at our first rehearsal.

A young woman stands speaking demonstratively, holding up a paper in one hand, as an older woman seated at a small writing desk looks on.

Debates

What the Constitution Means to Me features a live debate. Debate is an ancient form of competitive discourse that can take many forms.

Preview image for Dracula & Vampirism: A History

Dracula & Vampirism: A History

How to stop a vampire — and other useful background on Dracula and the history of vampirism. A must-read for all aspiring vampire hunters!

Preview image for World of the Play: 19th Century English Society

World of the Play: 19th Century English Society

A brief overview of the history, culture, and society of the Victorian era in Great Britain provides context for Dracula: A Feminist Revenge Fantasy, Really.

Preview image for An Interview with Playwright Kate Hamill

An Interview with Playwright Kate Hamill

PCS Literary Manager Kamilah Bush talked to Dracula: A Feminist Revenge Fantasy, Really writer Kate Hamill about "monster" stories, the fun of horror, and reclaiming classic stories as a feminist playwright.

Preview image for An Interview with Jillian Snow and David Saffert

An Interview with Jillian Snow and David Saffert

PCS Literary Manager Kamilah Bush spoke to the creators and performers of Liberace & Liza Holiday at the Mansion (A Tribute) about their collaboration, their creative backgrounds, and their obsessions with the larger-than-real-life celebrities who inspired their stage personas.

Preview image for Hair: A History

Hair: A History

A quick look at the original creative team, early productions and the musical's lasting legacy.

Preview image for The Vietnam War

The Vietnam War

Background, escalation and legacy of the war.

A gathering of young, long-haired war protesters on a city sidewalk are bordered by a row of armed soldiers along the adjacent street.

1968: The Year that Changed the World

1968 saw the peak of political unrest in all corners of the world. In America, resistance became a way of existence for many citizens, and new musicals of the era like HAIR brought the explicit and present politics of the moment roaring on stage.

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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