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Crossing Mnisose

Protect the water. Remember the sacrifice.

April 13 – May 5, 2019
On the U.S. Bank Main Stage

Crossing Mnisose (“minne-show-she”) tells the story of one of America's first feminists, Sacajawea, and draws a line from a completely original view of Lewis and Clark to the present day, as descendants of the Dakota and Lakota Nations continue their fight for the Mnisose (or what Europeans named the “Missouri River”) and the lands that contain the burials of their ancestors. From celebrated playwright, activist, and attorney Mary Kathryn Nagle (Cherokee Nation), whose Manahatta captivated audiences at Oregon Shakespeare Festival. 

Commissioned by Portland Center Stage at The Armory | World Premiere 

Run Time
Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, with one intermission.

Who's Who
View the Cast and Creative Team

Playbill
Explore the Program

Prologues
Join us for brief informational talks at 6:55 p.m. before every weeknight performance. Does not include preview performances.

Q&As
Post-show discussions with cast and crew follow matinee performances April 25, 27, May 2, and 4.

Access Dates
Open Captioned - April 27, 2 p.m.
Audio Described - April 28, 2 p.m.
Sign Interpreted - May 2, 7:30 p.m.

Note
Recommended for ages 15 and up. This production contains loud noises, combat, domestic violence, strong language, and fog/haze. Children under 6 are not permitted at any production at The Armory. Learn more by calling 503-445-3700 or emailing .

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Crossing Mnisose

  • Previews Apr. 13–18 | Opening night Apr. 19
  • By Mary Kathryn Nagle
  • Directed by Molly Smith

View Photos on Flickr

Preview image for Sacajawea? Sacagawea? Sakakawea?

Sacajawea? Sacagawea? Sakakawea?

There have been many pronunciations and spellings used for Sacajawea's name throughout history. Read on to learn about the approach used in Crossing Mnisose.

Preview image for Timeline of Historical Events: "Crossing Mnisose"

Timeline of Historical Events: "Crossing Mnisose"

Explore the historical timeline involved in Crossing Mnisose.

Preview image for The World of the Play: "Crossing Mnisose"

The World of the Play: "Crossing Mnisose"

Explore the world of the play.

Preview image for An Interview with Mary Kathryn Nagle

An Interview with Mary Kathryn Nagle

The playwright discusses deconstructing the mythology of Lewis and Clark, learning the truth about Sacajawea, and how her experiences at the Standing Rock protests and as a lawyer fighting for Indigenous rights informed the writing of Crossing Mnisose.

Preview image for Why I Wrote This Play

Why I Wrote This Play

In her own words: Mary Kathryn Nagle on her journey to restore the forgotten narrative of Sacajawea, connect her story to those of modern Native women survivors, and place the mythology of Manifest Destiny in the context of recent history.

Preview image for "Crossing Mnisose" Cast & Creative Team

"Crossing Mnisose" Cast & Creative Team

Meet the exciting cast and creative team behind Crossing Mnisose.

Portland Center Stage is committed to identifying & interrupting instances of racism & all forms of oppression, through the principles of inclusion, diversity, equity, & accessibility (IDEA).

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Show Sponsors

2018-2019 Season Superstars

2018-2019 Season Supporting Sponsors