Reviews of "Astoria: Part Two"
Theater of Epic Proportions
"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.”
–BroadwayWorld
A Harrowing Tale
"I'm here to tell you that even if you haven't seen Part One, even if you're as faceblind as I am, you can thoroughly enjoy PCS' beautifully produced, thought-provoking, action-packed, fully-contained epic Astoria: Part Two." -Ut Omnia Bene
Sweeping Historical Drama
“Grandly rustic and versatile scenic design, a wealth of colorful costumes ... rousing songs ... well worth a visit.” –Oregon ArtsWatch
A Huge Success
"Bigger than life, complicated characters with differing agendas populate his stage, fight their battles, tell their stories, and bring the audience into this historic adventure convincingly and with passion." -Judy Nedry
Epic and Impressive
"A must-see because it dramatises a pivotal moment in your country's history in vivid and unexpected ways." -The Crippled Critic
What people are saying on Facebook:
"A terrific experience ... It’s like Hamilton, but with French voyageur tunes instead of rap. I consider it a must-see."
"Absolutely fabulous. I was literally moved to tears."
"An astonishing theatrical achievement and certainly the most creative biographical work I’ve ever seen."
"Intense and poignant. They managed to capture the experience in an unforgettable montage. Great study in leadership and personality too as well as the survival challenges of the wild Pacific Northwest!"
"Excellent production. So worth your time!"
"I was totally swept away and honestly felt I was there with them reliving history."
"A multi-layered theater experience ... very satisfying."
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.
The Music of Astoria
From the French Canadian voyaguer songs to traditional American folk songs, explore the music in Astoria.
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.
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.
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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