About Portland Ovations  

The Merrill stage prepared for a classical concert. Photo by Andrew Shuttleworth.

Each year since 1931, Portland Ovations, formerly known as the PCA Great Performances, has brought a dynamic season of exceptional performing artists to Portland, Maine, including classical music, jazz, opera, dance, theater, and Broadway.

In addition to our live performances, we bring the exhilaration of the performing arts out into our community with season-long educational and outreach programs called Ovations Offstage.

our mission statement

Portland Ovations contributes to the cultural, social and economic well-being of our community by presenting an array of high quality performing artists from around the world and creating diverse educational experiences that bring the enjoyment, energy and enrichment of the arts to all.

our core values

Portland Ovations…

  • believes that cultural enrichment should be accessible to all
  • provides quality live performances and education experiences
  • engages our community with integrity and compassion
  • collaborates with other arts organizations, nonprofits, education systems and the business sector to promote cultural enrichment and lifelong learning
  • celebrates the power and virtuosity of the performing arts
  • sustains a staff and board who are thoughtful, committed, enthusiastic and fiscally responsible