A Look Back at Portland Center Stage in 2011

Portland Center Stage is constantly hosting events to recognize and thank some of its generous sponsors. Here’s a look at a few from this past year! Ted and Julie Vigeland joined hundreds of others who celebrated in style at Portland Center Stage’s 2011 Annual Gala. (Photo credit, Joni Shimabukuro)

Now in its 24th season, Portland Center Stage (Chris Coleman, Artistic Director) is the largest producing theater in Portland. Established in 1988 as an offshoot of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, PCS became an independent theater in 1994 and has been under the leadership of Artistic Director Chris Coleman since May 2000.  Portland Center Stage’s home since Fall 2006 — the Gerding Theater at the Armory — is the first historic rehabilitation on the National Historic Register, and the first performing arts venue, to achieve a LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) Platinum rating. PCS also offers a variety of education and outreach programs for curious minds from six to 106, including discussions, classes, workshops and partnerships with organizations throughout the Portland metro area.

Every year, PCS pulls out all the stops for their Annual Gala.  In 2011, the theme was “It’s a Mod, Mod, Mod, Mod World”, an homage to the 60’s and all its psychedelic glory.  The Gala is a celebration of what PCS has accomplished in the past year, and a way to build energy and enthusiasm for the year to come.  Tickets begin at $350, and guests are treated to food, dancing, entertainment and a live auction. Next year’s gala is already in the works, with a theme that recognizes the Blues and its Southern roots, and ties in nicely with their last show of the season It Ain’t Nothin’ But the Blues. PCS knows how to throw a party, which means next year’s Blues Gala will be an event you won’t want to miss.

 

 

2011 was a year of great theater and patron appreciation at Portland Center Stage.  To thank their generous sponsors, PCS invites them to Opening Night Dinners – a private party with a catered dinner in their beautiful Armory, followed by the show. Here are some photos from this years Opening Night Dinner before the premiere of One Night WIth Janis Joplin in May 2011.