Reviews of Redwood
What Critics are Saying
"Allen, who also appears in the production, splices together race, identity and genealogy in a provocative piece that couldn't feel more timely in an increasingly multiracial America ... a challenging, memorable production that bodes well for the company’s Wolf era." – The Oregonian
"Redwood is an insightful, funny, of-the-moment (occasionally tear-inspiring) play about race and identity ... The play recognizes the horrors of our collective past and the complexity of our present, while looking optimistically toward the future." – BroadwayWorld
"Allen’s genius lies in her ability to grapple with the issues of our history and our country’s racism in its many incarnations; to play real, hard and fair to get every member of the audience engaged in what she is saying; and to do it with comedy, wit, and grace." – Judy Nedry
What Audiences are Saying
"Hilarious, meaningful, and grounded! The stylization of the vignettes was phenomenal and felt incredibly new and refreshing onstage."
"Captivating and super entertaining."
"A clever, thought-provoking, important play. Go see it!"
"So gorgeous! I will never forget this riveting dance!!"
"Wonderful, shocking and funny at the same time. I would see it again!"
"Everything about the show was superb. The ending was unexpected and sudden and I loved it."
More about Redwood:
The Original Music of Redwood
By turns electric, haunting, and joyful, Derek A. Graham's original score enriches the world of Brittany K. Allen's sharp, compassionate comedy. Listen to the full soundtrack now, plus a song inspired by the play.
Live Sketch Artists for Redwood
We invited local comic artists to a dress rehearsal of Redwood to sketch their impressions of the show. Check out the results!
Our Tangled Roots: An interview with Redwood playwright and performer Brittany K. Allen
In Redwood, Brittany K. Allen uses her signature playfulness, verve, and bold theatricality to scale the branches of our shared American lineage. Here, she digs into the genesis of her new play — our 28th world premiere to date and the very first selected by Artistic Director Marissa Wolf.
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!
Adult Class : TWELFTH NIGHT, Before & After
Join veteran actor Joe Costa for a unique opportunity to take a “deep dive” into both Shakespeare’s text of Twelfth Night, and the PCS Production. Participants will read the play out loud as a group, with “intermissions” provided for lively discussion of themes and content. Interested participants will have a chance to act in selected scenes, guided by the instructor.
Improv Comedy: Love, Shakespeare
Witness the Magic of unscripted Elizabethan comedy! Step into the offbeat world of Love, Shakespeare, where seasoned Portland comedians attempt something audacious: performing a fully improvised Elizabethan play based on your suggestions!
Albina Music Trust presents A Brown Branch Christmas
Celebrate this holiday season with A Brown Branch Christmas at Portland Center Stage. Now in its fourth season, this two-night big band celebration features directors Domo Branch and Charlie Brown III guiding a heavy 15-piece lineup of regional and national musicians.
BIPOC Affinity Night DJ Party with ALoSo
Join us for a double feature BIPOC Affinity Night, featuring a live DJ set by ALoSo, plus holiday craft market vendor tables, art exhibits by Albina Music Trust Wall to Wall Sound and Jason Hill's Favorite Things, with complimentary select drinks provided by Multnomah Whiskey Library and Deschutes Brewery while supplies last.
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!
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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