Performance Works NorthWest

- 4625 SE 67th Ave, Portland, OR 97206

Nestled in the vibrant SE Foster area of Portland, Oregon, you'll find a true gem of the local arts scene: Performance Works NorthWest (PWNW). As a non-profit organization and a dynamic performing arts theater, PWNW is more than just a venue; it's an essential incubator for contemporary performance. For years, it has been a cornerstone for artists and audiences in our community, fostering an environment where live performance, dance, and experimental art can thrive. It is celebrated by locals as a space that is both a stage for amazing productions and a critical support system for creators. As one review proudly states, it's "one of Portland's gems." This is where local talent is nurtured and where audiences can witness groundbreaking, thought-provoking work.

Performance Works NorthWest is an artist-led space founded by choreographer Linda Austin and lighting designer Jeff Forbes. This foundation ensures that the space is deeply attuned to the needs of performers, offering a supportive and flexible environment. It serves as a home for a wide variety of events, from dance and theater to cabaret and rehearsals, acting as a crucial "incubator" for new work. The welcoming and collaborative spirit is evident in the feedback from those who use the space, with a review praising the owner as "kind and very open to a wide variety of events and needs." This commitment to the creative process is what makes PWNW an indispensable part of Oregon's cultural landscape.

Performance Works NorthWest is located at 4625 SE 67th Ave, Portland, OR 97206, USA. Its presence in the SE Foster area makes it a convenient destination for those in the surrounding neighborhoods and easily accessible from other parts of the city. While parking is described as street level, a common aspect of many urban venues, the high level of amenities provided inside more than compensates for it. One of the most significant aspects of PWNW is its strong commitment to accessibility. The venue features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible seating, and a wheelchair-accessible toilet. This dedication ensures that people with varying mobility needs can comfortably and confidently attend performances and participate in events.

The thoughtful design of the space, which includes an air-purifier and a flexible layout, makes it a comfortable and safe environment for both performers and audience members. The location is also well-integrated into the local community, making it a familiar and approachable spot for residents looking to engage with the arts. It’s a place that feels connected to its neighborhood, embodying the local, independent spirit that defines so much of Portland.

As a multi-faceted hub for the arts, Performance Works NorthWest offers a diverse range of services to both the creative community and the public.

• Live Performances: The core of PWNW's mission is to present live performances that are often experimental and on the cutting edge of contemporary art. These can include dance, theater, music, and multimedia shows.

• Rehearsal and Creation Space: The venue provides subsidized rental space for artists, allowing them a dedicated place to create and rehearse new work. This is a vital service that helps to nurture local talent and support the artistic process.

• Artist Residency Programs: PWNW runs programs like "Alembic," which provide resident artists with space and resources to develop new projects. This role as an "incubator" is a key part of its non-profit mission.

• Workshops and Classes: The space is also used for a variety of workshops and classes, providing educational opportunities for artists and community members to engage with different art forms.

• Event Hosting: The venue can be rented for a wide variety of events, from performances and informal showings to meetings and private workshops, with lighting and sound equipment available.

• Non-Profit Organization: As a non-profit, PWNW is dedicated to its mission of advancing the arts in the Pacific Northwest, making it a valuable cultural institution supported by the community and various grants.

These services collectively make PWNW an indispensable resource, not only for audience members seeking unique experiences but also for artists who rely on its supportive infrastructure to bring their visions to life.

Performance Works NorthWest has several defining features and highlights that make it a standout destination in Portland's arts scene.

• Live Performances: The primary highlight is the focus on "live performances" of contemporary, experimental work, providing audiences with a chance to see unique and thought-provoking shows that might not be presented elsewhere.

• Accessibility: The venue is exceptionally accessible, with a "wheelchair-accessible entrance," "wheelchair-accessible seating," and a "wheelchair-accessible toilet." This commitment to inclusivity is a core part of its identity.

• Good for Kids: The space is considered "good for kids," indicating that certain performances and events are suitable for a younger audience, allowing families to enjoy the arts together.

• Full-Featured Rehearsal and Performance Space: Despite its intimate size, the venue is professionally equipped with all the "equipment and lighting you could need," making it a high-quality space for both rehearsal and performance.

• Flexible Payment Options: PWNW accepts "credit cards" and "debit cards," offering convenience for both patrons buying tickets and artists renting the space.

These features demonstrate that PWNW is a space that is not only creatively ambitious but also practical and accessible, making it an inviting place for everyone in the community.

For more information on upcoming performances, space rental, or to support this important non-profit, you can visit Performance Works NorthWest at their physical address.

• Address: 4625 SE 67th Ave, Portland, OR 97206, USA

As a non-profit, they often provide contact information and event details on their website, which is the best way to stay up-to-date on their programming.

What is truly worth choosing about Performance Works NorthWest is its dual role as a public theater and a private creative space. For the people of Oregon, it serves as a vital artery in the state's cultural landscape, providing a home for art that challenges, inspires, and delights. Unlike larger, more commercial theaters, PWNW offers an intimate experience where the connection between artist and audience is tangible. Its status as a non-profit organization means that every dollar spent, whether on a ticket or a donation, goes directly back into supporting local artists and advancing the arts. The fact that it is an "incubator" for new work means that by attending a show here, you are often witnessing the very beginning of something new and important. This forward-looking, supportive mission sets it apart. The high level of accessibility and the welcoming atmosphere make it a space that feels open to all. Ultimately, choosing to visit Performance Works NorthWest is not just about seeing a show; it’s about participating in a community dedicated to the vitality and innovation of performance art, right here in Portland.

Performance Works NorthWest

4625 SE 67th Ave, Portland, OR 97206, USA