Reviews of "Astoria: Part One"
An Examination of the American Democratic Experiment
"This is broad-stroke storytelling, whisking us across oceans and through vast wilderness, yet it is flecked with lots of human-scale color and detail — boisterous bursts of song and dance, simmering personality conflicts, harrowing survival challenges, bits of bawdy humor. ... as both adapter and director, Coleman’s done a fine job at a massive and tricky task, remaking history into theater." -Oregon ArtsWatch
A Sweeping, Tense Drama
"In vision, depth of talent, and budget, Astoria is comparable to The Crown, Marco Polo, Frontier or any other prestige period drama saved in your Netflix queue. Even better: This monumental miniseries is live. ... Stop streaming for a night and go live. And settle in for a sweeping, historical theater event that just won't fit on an iPad or phone screen." -The Oregonian
An Outstanding Production
"Coleman transformed a history book into a live action-adventure play that pushes the limits of most theatrical performances. Under his pen, the silent characters of Peter Stark’s book become flesh and blood, conflicted and conflicting, altogether larger than life. ... an excellent and engaging play from a number of perspectives ..." -Judy Nedry
Rich Storytelling
"Astoria: Part One is a riveting play of epic proportions, a fine-detailed work with a sweeping narrative. ... In this world of period and fantasy miniseries, Coleman has created a spirited story of adventure and survival. It's exciting storytelling in the hands of a masterful director with a big vision and, like Astor's, a marvelous dream." -EDGEMedia
A Colossal Undertaking
"Coleman and the cast do an incredible job of bringing the history to life via the stories and struggles of the men -- and woman -- who made up the traveling parties ... If you like history, or history plays, you'll certainly enjoy Astoria." -BroadwayWorld
Full of Period-Piece Peril
"Astoria is more interested in examining power structures as they were than in rewriting them: It's a subtle but intricate portrait of the era of westward expansion." -Willamette Week
A Terrific Ensemble
"Coleman has done an outstanding job of bringing this epic story to life (and, remember, this is only Part One). His use of space to tell the tale and casting and developing the story so that it is always clear as to who’s who and what’s happening, is a tribute to his skill as an artist." -Dennis Sparks
What people are saying on Facebook:
"Excellent production. Powerful set, riveting story line, and strong actors. Loved the French boat men's songs!"
"Thank you for the most excellent show tonight! I was definitely at the edge of my seat all show! Amazing work by the whole cast!"
"We saw it on Sunday and were amazed! Having read the book last year we thought a stage rendition would be almost impossible. But, Chris Coleman did the impossible! We absolutely recommend the play and the book!"
"Bravo and thank you - my family (including my teenage boys) really enjoyed the show and had great conversations afterwards."
"Read the book last year and loved it. Went to the play last Thursday with a meet and greet with the author Peter Stark. Absolutely wonderful. Can't wait for part two."
"It is a fabulous production. Well worth seeing and anticipating the next one."
"I had listened to the book on CD and couldn't imagine how this could be made into a play. Fortunately more creative minds than mine, created an engaging and historically accurate play. Highly recommended!"
Reviews of "Astoria: Part Two"
"Astoria is a great way to learn the history behind the place we all call home. It reminds us to be grateful to the people who sacrificed their lives, as well as recognize the cultures that had been here long before Astor conceived his plan.”
A Family History Unfolds On Stage
In 1811, Alexander McKay and his son Thomas arrived at the mouth of the Columbia River aboard the Tonquin ship as members of the Pacific Fur Company. 206 years later, in 2017, Alexander’s great-great-great-great-grandson, Bob Nelson, settled into a seat at The Armory to watch Astoria: Part One.
Art Installation by Portland Cherokee Artist Brenda Mallory
The Armory will host Recurring Chapters in the Book of Inevitable Outcomes, an art installation by Brenda Mallory, a local artist and member of the Cherokee Nation. Now through the run of And So We Walked.
The Astor Expedition Ale
In celebration of Astoria: Part Two, we've partnered with the Astoria-Warrenton Chamber of Commerce and five Astoria brewers to create a limited edition beer to commemorate the 19th century expedition.
Reviews of "Astoria: Part Two"
"Astoria is a great way to learn the history behind the place we all call home. It reminds us to be grateful to the people who sacrificed their lives, as well as recognize the cultures that had been here long before Astor conceived his plan.”
Specialty Cocktails Inspired by "Astoria: Part Two"
Resident Mixologist and The Armory Bar Supervisor Melissa Larrabee writes about creating the delicious specialty cocktails inspired by Astoria: Part Two.
A Family History Unfolds On Stage
In 1811, Alexander McKay and his son Thomas arrived at the mouth of the Columbia River aboard the Tonquin ship as members of the Pacific Fur Company. 206 years later, in 2017, Alexander’s great-great-great-great-grandson, Bob Nelson, settled into a seat at The Armory to watch Astoria: Part One.
Art Installation by Portland Cherokee Artist Brenda Mallory
The Armory will host Recurring Chapters in the Book of Inevitable Outcomes, an art installation by Brenda Mallory, a local artist and member of the Cherokee Nation. Now through the run of And So We Walked.
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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