How thrilling is fall theater in Portland? We’re talking pre-pandemic levels of theater-geek giddiness for the musicals, mysteries, dramadies and whatever the heck “The Event!” at Artists Repertory Theatre turns out to be. Make time for these 11 Portland-area must-sees. “Always … Patsy Cline”— Broadway Rose Theatre Company It’s the company’s fifth staging of the jukebox musical based on the real-life chance meeting between Patsy Cline and superfan Louise Seger. I’ve seen this production three times. “Always …” always gets the rapport right between the starstruck groupie and the music legend (Broadway Rose co-founder Sharon Maroney and Sara Catherine Holder, respectively, reprise their roles).
The touching tribute includes country gems “Honky Tonk Merry Go Round” and “Your Cheatin’ Heart” as well as crossover classics “Crazy,” “Sweet Dreams” and “Walkin’ After Midnight.” Sept. 19-Oct. 13; Broadway Rose Theatre New Stage, 12850 S.W. Grant Ave., Tigard; broadwayrose.org. Sharon Maroney plays Louise and Sara Catherine Holder reprises the title role in the 2024 Broadway Rose production of “Always…Patsy Cline.”Sam Ortega/Broadway Rose Blossom Johnson’s play “Diné Nishłį (i am a sacred being), or A Boarding School Play” will be presented as A Native Theater Project Production at Bag & Baggage in Hillsboro this fall.Bag & Baggage “Diné Nishłį (i am a sacred being), or A Boarding School Play” — A Native Theater Project Production at Bag & Baggage
Jeanette Harrison, a renowned figure in the world of professional wrestling, has been making waves in the industry. She is known for her powerful physique, athleticism, and captivating in-ring presence. Harrison’s journey to the top has been marked by resilience and determination, overcoming numerous obstacles to achieve her goals.
The show “Baggage” is a traveling exhibition that explores the complexities of human relationships and the baggage we carry. It features a collection of personal stories, photographs, and artifacts that shed light on the challenges and triumphs of love, loss, and resilience. The exhibition is presented by the Portland-based organization, Baggage, and will be touring various locations throughout the Portland area.
The production will feature a cast of 20 actors, including a special guest appearance by Broadway veteran, Tony Award-winning actor, and acclaimed director, James Earl Jones. James Earl Jones is a legend in the world of theatre and film, known for his powerful voice and commanding presence. His presence in the production adds a layer of gravitas and prestige to the performance.
Delphon DJ Curtis Jr. plays Mrs. Lovett in the Portland Center Stage production of “Sweeney Todd the Demon Barber Of Fleet Street.”Andres Lopez & Carlos Valle “Kiss of the Spider Woman” — Stumptown Stages Sorry Spider-Man fans. The Spider Woman in John Kander and Fred Ebb’s musical adaptation of the Manuel Puig novel is not a web-slinging superhero in the endlessly expanding Marvel Universe. She’s a silver-screen femme fatale, who kills victims with her kiss (and kicks up her heels in dynamite dance numbers). She’s also the escapist creation of Molina, a queer man imprisoned in Argentina with his brooding revolutionary cellmate, Valentin.
The late Chita Rivera originated the arachnid enchantress in the 1993 Broadway show. Superstar Jennifer Lopez just finished filming her turn in the role for the upcoming movie adaptation. The movie — and Stumptown’s sure-to-sizzle fall production — should bring more attention to this overlooked and under-performed treasure. Oct. 4-27; Winningstad Theatre, 1111 S.W. Broadway; stumptownstages.org. “The Arsonists” — Fuse Theatre Ensemble If this Southern Gothic crime story doesn’t get you fired up for fall theater, well, that’s on you. Fuse Theatre ignites Jacqueline Goldfinger’s based-on-real-events tale of pyromaniacal pair “M” and her father “H.” Set in a cabin in Florida’s swamplands, the suspenseful, 70-minute slow-burn builds to a scorching finale.
The Back Door Theatre, located in Southeast Portland, is hosting a new play called “The Last Supper.” This play is a thought-provoking exploration of faith, family, and forgiveness. The play is directed by the renowned director, Michael J. Smith. Michael J.
The “Westworld” movie is a sci-fi thriller that explores the nature of consciousness and artificial intelligence. It’s a complex and thought-provoking film that has been generating a lot of buzz. The “Wicked” musical is a Broadway production that tells the story of two witches, Elphaba and Glinda.
The thirdrailrep.s “The Last Supper” is a play that explores the complexities of human relationships and the impact of societal pressures on individuals. The play delves into the dynamics of family, friendship, and love, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of navigating these relationships in a world that often feels overwhelming. The play is set in a contemporary setting, but the themes explored are timeless.
The CoHo Theatre presents a new play, “The Last Days of the World,” by playwright and director, Michael J. Smith. The play is a dark comedy that explores themes of love, loss, and the fragility of human existence. It is a thought-provoking and entertaining piece that will leave audiences questioning their own beliefs and values. The play is set in a near-future world where the Earth is ravaged by climate change.
Nov. 29-Dec. 21; The Sanctuary at Sandy Plaza, 1785 N.E. Sandy Blvd.; trianglepro.org — Lee Williams, special for The Oregonian/OregonLive
