Reviews of Frida ... A Self Portrait
What Critics are Saying
"The back and forth between Kahlo’s and Severo’s stories is the edge that makes this a bigger story than a self-portrait of Kahlo or reflection of the author. It broadens the reach of what we all have in common with one another." - Oregon ArtsWatch
What Audiences are Saying
"Frida shattered me. Vanessa Severo weaves her own story and discovers Frida's life in characters and movement. The pain and joy of life, triumph of self-discovery, power in learning and owning who you are...I'm going to think about it for a long time. Go see it."
"Incredible. There is nothing like it. Vanessa is astounding."
"Such a great actor, and innovative use of stage and props. The shift between Vanessa's role as Frida and her authentic self added to the emotion of it."
"Raw, visceral, brilliant and moving."
"It was fantastic!!!! So creative and real and Vanessa Severo is amazing. We were thrilled."
"Magnificent, flawless, moving."
"Unique. Engaging. Informative. Funny. Maximum entertainment!"
"Ahmazing and even better than I’d hoped for! The production was brilliant and imaginative, honoring Frida, her passion, and her legacy."
"Vanessa Severo’s performance was breathtaking. From the moment she walked on the stage as herself to the moment of Frida’s death. Brilliant."
"It was imaginative, well crafted, funny, and beautifully done."
More about Frida … A Self Portrait:
Vanessa Severo on OPB
OPB's "Think Out Loud" talked to writer and performer Vanessa Severo about the evolution of the show, and about the parallels she draws between Frida Kahlo’s life and her own experience as an artist and a person with a disability.
Live Sketch Artists for Frida ... A Self Portrait
We invited local artists to bring their sketchbooks to a performance of Frida ... A Self Portrait and draw whatever inspired them about the experience. Here are the results!
Frida's Paintings
There are six Frida Kahlo paintings represented in Vanessa's performance, can you figure out which ones? Discover one hundred of Frida's works and try to spot the ones in the show!
From the Director: Joanie Shultz
The director of Frida ... A Self Portrait discusses Frida Kahlo's legacy as a woman and historical figure, and reflects on how writer/performer Vanessa Severo finds the truth of Frida's humanity while exploring her own.
Behind the Curtain: An Interview with Vanessa Severo
In this 2019 interview, the writer and performer of Frida ... A Self Portrait unveils how she came to blend Kahlo’s life with her own experiences.
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).
Season Superstars
Season Supporting Sponsors
