I See You, and I Value You: Connecting Through Affirmation
Join Keela Johnson for this post-show activity is to introduce affirmation as a subconscious rebuilding practice that supports the strengthening of neural pathways associated with self-worth, positive valuation, and intrinsic reward. Through intentional acknowledgment and affirmations, participants are encouraged to accept and reaffirm who they are and who they aspire to become.
We are all familiar with the saying, “Children are to be seen and not heard.” This activity invites participants to thoughtfully reconsider that sentiment by emphasizing the importance of both seeing and hearing children, and equally, of seeing and hearing parents. In recognition of Mother’s Day, we invite you to participate in a reflective activity designed to foster meaningful communication, self-affirmation, and mutual appreciation among individuals and loved ones.
Keela Johnson, MS, is a Cultural Consultant and an instructor at Portland State University. Her consulting practice spans State and City governments, nonprofit and corporate organizations, and the performing arts sector. Guided by a deep commitment to the arts, she developed a university capstone course at Portland State University titled Community Healing & Theater, co-created in partnership with Portland Playhouse. Her work focuses on advancing cultural competency within the arts and fostering meaningful community engagement through theater as a space for healing, particularly for marginalized voices. With more than ten years of experience in this field, Ms. Johnson continues to dedicate her efforts to strengthening community connection through theater as a transformative and restorative practice.
Current & Upcoming
Lizard Boy
Portland Center Stage presents a brand new production of a PNW cult favorite! When Trevor was a child, a strange encounter with a dragon left his skin green and scaly. Now, he only leaves his house on MonsterFest, the one day a year he feels safe to share his skin with the world. And this year, Trevor has a date! When another dragon survivor warns him that the dragons may be returning, Trevor must decide if he has the courage to save the world…and his new crush. Part concert, part hero’s journey, this indie-rock musical proves you don’t need a cape to be a superhero—just the nerve to show up.
Portland Playhouse Presents: MARVIN'S RESCUE
Marvin’s Rescue is a riotous new musical from Marv Ross of the iconic 1980s band Quarterflash. Directed by Brian Weaver, co-founder and artistic director of Portland Playhouse, this musical comedy barks, bites, and sneaks up on your heart. A fearless cast brings to life a story about the dogs who tumble into our lives and teach us how to love better, even when everything goes sideways. Funny, wild, and unexpectedly tender.
The 2026 Fertile Ground Producer Showcase
Join us for a Festival kickoff celebration! Grab your Festival guide, meet the artists participating in this year’s lineup, have some snacks on us, and enter to win some themed “baskets” created around show tickets to current Portland-area productions (like Apple Hunters!, Steel Magnolias, and Fat Ham). The Producer Showcase is a great opportunity to learn more about the 2026 Fertile Ground projects and plan your Festival viewing schedule - and have some fun while you're doing it. Drop by the Armory any time from 6-9 PM!
April First Thursday
Join us at our April First Thursday, and our first of the Spring season! Enjoy a complimentary beer from Deschutes Brewery, local vendors, 20% off your tab at Screen Door and live music curation from Alisa.
2026 Theater Lovers' Bash
This isn’t your typical sit-down gala. Portland Center Stage’s annual fundraising celebration is a high-energy carnival of theater-inspired experiences—think games, performances, music, and moments of surprise around every corner. Come ready to mingle, explore, and play while supporting bold, local storytelling.
Acting for Adults: Actors' Toolbox
Explore Anne Bogart’s viewpoints, Meisner’s technique of repetition, Adler’s emotional recall, Laban’s eight efforts, Lecoq’s seven levels of tension, Michael Chekhov’s psychological gestures and learn to apply these to text of your choosing.
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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