"Streetcar" in Pop Culture
The Tennessee Williams classic A Streetcar Named Desire, which was famously adapted in 1951 for the big screen, has been seen by millions on stages across the world. With many quotable lines and a timeless theme, it has appeared numerous times in subtle and not so subtle ways on the silver screen. Blanche’s most famous line “I have always depended on the kindness of strangers,” has been used in many popular television series such as M.A.S.H. and Saved by the Bell.
The Simpsons dedicated an entire episode to the American classic in an episode titled “A Streetcar Named Marge,” wherein Marge is cast in the starring role as Blanche DuBois. During her time in the production, Marge starts to see similarities between Homer and Stanley and becomes angered with him, just as Blanche does with Stanley in the play. While The Simpsons episode ends on a happier note than the play, many of the play's themes are conveyed throughout the episode with a dash of Simpsons’ humor.
Seinfeld referenced Streetcar in an episode where Elaine accidentally takes one too many muscle relaxers before going out to dinner. When meeting Jerry’s aunt Stella, Elaine does her best Stanley impersonation.
Modern Family has paid homage to this Tennessee Williams play in reference to the famously shouted words “Stelllllaaaa!” Gloria has lost her dog Stella and enlists the help of Cam to help locate her. While helping Gloria, Cam comes to the realization that he is like a modern day Stanley.
More about A Streetcar Named Desire:
Journalism Student Visits "Streetcar"
A journalism student from Clark College visited PCS last week to learn about Streetcar and write a news story for one of her classes.
Reviews of "A Streetcar Named Desire"
"Sixty years after its debut, Williams' masterpiece still has the power to seduce and shock." –The Oregonian
"A Streetcar Named Desire" Cast and Creative Team
Learn about the incredible cast and creative team we've assembled for this production.
Emily Mann's "Streetcar" Script Revisions
PCS received permission from the Williams' estate to use Emily Mann's slightly revised version of the script, which was first presented on Broadway in 2012, featuring black cast members in the leading roles.
Complete Casting Announced for “A Streetcar Named Desire”
Demetrius Grosse and Deidrie Henry from NBC’s Game of Silence will play Blanche and Stanley, joined by two other television regulars: Kristen Adele as Stella and Keith Eric Chappelle as Mitch.
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
