Discussion Series

PORTLAND STAGE hosts three free audience discussions for the general public during the run of each production on our mainstage. Patrons interested in attending either of the post-show discussions (The Artistic Perspective or Curtain Call) are welcome to come to the discussion even if they have not attended the preceding performance - just plan to arrive at the theater at the time the performance gets out!

The Artistic Perspective
The Artistic Perspective, hosted by Artistic Director Anita Stewart, is an opportunity for audience members to delve deeper into the themes and creative questions behind each production through conversation with special guests. A different scholar, visiting artist, playwright, or other expert will join the discussion each time. The Artistic Perspective discussions are held after the first Sunday matinee performance.

The 39 Steps: Sunday, October 3, 2010
Last Gas: Sunday, November 7, 2010
2 Pianos 4 Hands: Sunday, January 30, 2011
The Center of Gravity: Sunday, March 6, 2011
Halpern & Johnson: Sunday, April 3, 2011
The Syringa Tree: Sunday, May 8, 2011

Page to Stage
Page to Stage discussions are presented in partnership with the Portland Public Library. These discussions, led by Portland Stage artistic staff, provide insight into the literary and social aspects of the play, as well as exploring the challenges of bringing a particular play to the stage. Page to Stage is held at the Portland Public Library at 12:00 noon the Tuesday after a show opens. Feel free to bring your lunch!

The 39 Steps: Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Last Gas: Tuesday, November 9, 2010
2 Pianos 4 Hands: Tuesday, February 1, 2011
The Center of Gravity: Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Halpern & Johnson: Tuesday, April 5, 2011
The Syringa Tree: Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Curtain Call
Curtain Call discussions offer a rare opportunity for audience members to talk about the production with the performers, exploring topics that range from the rehearsal process to character development to issues raised by the work. Curtain Call discussions are held after the second Sunday matinee performance.

The 39 Steps: Sunday, October 10, 2010
Last Gas: Sunday, November 14, 2010
2 Pianos 4 Hands: Sunday, February 6, 2011
The Center of Gravity: Sunday, March 13, 2011
Halpern & Johnson: Sunday, April 10, 2011
The Syringa Tree: Sunday, May 15, 2011

All discussions are free and open to the public.

To view a listing of discussions by show, see the individual show pages for our Current Season.

To subscribe to a discussion series performance, please call the Box Office at 207-774-0465.