The Oregon Trail
- Previews are Oct. 29 - Nov. 3 | Opening night Nov. 4
- By Bekah Brunstetter
- Directed by Rose Riordan
JUMP TO: Dates, Run Time, Playbill, & More
You have died of dysentery! For those who grew up playing “The Oregon Trail” computer game, dysentery was serious business. In this fresh and funny retelling of our history, two Janes traverse The Oregon Trail. “Now Jane” is playing the computer game in 1997; “Then Jane” is in a covered wagon in 1848. A judgey game show narrator, a domineering sister and two oxen try to corral the two Janes. Fate maneuvers them both to a conclusion that changes their lives and sends them to the end of the trail.
Run Time:
Approximately 90 minutes; no intermission.
Who’s Who:
View the cast and creative team bios.
Playbill:
Explore the playbill.
Note:
Recommended for ages 17 and up. Contains mature content, explicit language, sexual situations and partial nudity. Children under 6 are not permitted at any production at The Armory. If you die of dysentery and can’t make it to the show, we will NOT refund your tickets.
Perspectives Series:
Post-show conversations following the matinee performances on November 6, 12 and 13.
Resource Guide:
Download resource guide (PDF)
More About This Production
Reviews of "The Oregon Trail"
"With a script that's brash and funny, a cast of talented actors with great comedic timing, and deft set design, The Oregon Trail is a fun show ... for anyone who grew up playing "Oregon Trail" or came of age in the '90s, The Oregon Trail hits all the marks."
10 Beloved Coming of Age Stories (For Girls)
From The Outsiders to Little Women, Growing Pains and My So-Called Life, Bekah Brunstetter's play The Oregon Trail has us reminiscing about our favorite coming of age tales.
"The Oregon Trail" Cast and Creative Team
Learn about the team battling dysentery in The Oregon Trail.
Perspectives series for "The Oregon Trail"
Join The Armory in partnership with PIGSquad, Rose City Games and the Oregon Games Organization for a series of 30-minute post-show discussions following select Sunday matinee performances of Oregon Trail.
Resource Guide for Educators: The History of the Game
What The Oregon Trail game meant for one pre-teen girl
In Photos: "The Oregon Trail" in Rehearsal
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the cast and director in rehearsal for The Oregon Trail.
10 Things You May Not Know About "The Oregon Trail"
Grab your JanSport backpack and brush up on 10 facts about "The Oregon Trail" computer game you wish you had known in elementary school.
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.
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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).
Production Sponsors
2016–2017 Season Supporting Sponsors
