Major Barbara
How do you lift up a society? Shaw’s deliciously witty and timely classic tackles this question with unexpected results. Barbara has dedicated her life to serving the poor and clashes with her father who amassed his fortune selling weapons for war. As Shaw explores notions of right versus wrong, left versus right, and everything in between, you’ll find yourself laughing while questioning your own beliefs. “One of Shaw's brightest, slyest, most provocatively outrageous and most timeless comedies." –New York Post
Who’s Who:
View the cast and creative team bios.
Run Time:
Approximately
2 hours and 30 minutes, including one intermission.
Playbill:
Explore the playbill.
Note:
Recommended for ages 12 and up. The actors in this production will be using tobacco-free herbal cigarettes. Children under 6 are not permitted at any production at The
Armory.
Resource Guide:
Download resource guide (PDF)
Major Barbara
- Previews are Apr. 14-19 | Opening night Apr. 20
- By George Bernard Shaw
- Directed by Chris Coleman
Specialty Cocktails for "Major Barbara" and "And So We Walked"
From Pimm's to an earl grey simple, Bar Supervisor (and resident mixologist) Melissa Larrabee introduces the delicious specialty cocktails inspired by Major Barbara and And So We Walked.
George Bernard Shaw and Portland Center Stage: Shared Good Fortune
As we prepare to open our production of Major Barbara, an unplanned but serendipitous pattern around the great man’s work has become apparent: We seem to mark major transitions at Portland Center Stage at The Armory with the works of George Bernard Shaw.
Shaw and Film
George Bernard Shaw loved film, but hated his own his work on screen. Until Gabriel Pascal came along and made film adaptations of Pygmalion and, later, Major Barbara.
Seven Brilliant Quotes by Shaw
"Youth is wasted on the young." Seven quotes by George Bernard Shaw, known for his witty insights into the human condition.
Keep Calm and Quarrel On: "Major Barbara’s" Great Debaters
Benjamin Fainstein, Literary Manager at The Armory, discusses George Bernard Shaw's Major Barbara as a forum for debate.
The Costumes of "Major Barbara"
A behind the scenes look at the costumes for Major Barbara designed by Lex Liang.
"Major Barbara" Cast and Creative Team
Meet the incredible cast and creative team behind George Bernard Shaw's witty and timely classic, Major Barbara.
Talkin' Shaw Class
Join Literary Manager Benjamin Fainstein for a lively group discussion about George Bernard Shaw and Major Barbara. Wednesday, May 2nd 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Chris Coleman talks "Major Barbara" with Artslandia
Watch Chris Coleman talk about George Bernard Shaw's masterpiece Major Barbara — his final show at The Armory.
Siren Improv Giants at The Armory
Join The Siren Theater's favorite improvisers for a one-night only send up of The Armory's upcoming production of Major Barbara. Sunday, April 29 7:30 p.m. $10.
Current & Upcoming
Productive Discomfort: On Casting
This in-depth conversation delves into the changing face of casting in today’s theater, with PCS Associate Artistic Director Chip Miller and actor/writer Ayanna Berkshire.
Monthly Drop-in Improvisation Class 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, this once-a-month improv class will set you on the path to success! (One of four sessions.)
Live Music: Discovery Fest
Join us for a special afternoon concert and showcase of local Portland artists called Discovery Fest. The lineup will feature a range of genres and artists including rapper Young Shirt Mayne, space funk band Dreckig, rock band B^GG^GE, plus special guests Jan Julius and Veana Baby.
Monthly Drop-in Urban Jazz Dance Class with Noelle Simone
Urban Jazz dance technique is a fusion of: Jazz, Hip-hop, Horton*, Graham, Ballet, and Voguing. Originated in Chicago Illinois by Mr. Joel Hall, owner of the Joel Hall Dancers and Center. Urban Jazz focuses on isolations, rhythm, and soul, fused with the lively energy of the Chicago streets. All levels are welcome! (One of four sessions.)
Drop-in Writing Workshop for BIPOC Writers with Anya Pearson
One of four Fall 2021 workshops for BIPOC writers designed to help generate new material, refine existing drafts, or simply discover the permission to call yourself a writer. Join one or more of these monthly drop-in sessions, where we will gather in person to write together, bounce ideas off each other, share our work in progress, and hold space for the fullness of who we are.
October First Thursday with Pablo Rivarola
Join us in October for a First Thursday event featuring live music from the Pablo Rivarola Trio. Pablo (trumpet player, composer, pianist, and bandleader) will be joined by drummer Nick Morrison and keyboard player Anderson Donley. Complimentary beer from our partners at Deschutes Brewery!
Portland Center Stage is committed to identifying & interrupting instances of racism & all forms of oppression, through the principles of inclusion, diversity, equity, & accessibility (IDEA).
Show Sponsors
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