Our Stories

Portland Ovations is honored to welcome five new members to the Board of Directors: Atiim Boykin,  Sherouk Fetaih, Bryan Matluk, Joy McManigal, and Liz Cotter Schlax.  “I am excited to welcome an exceptional group of new Board members whose leadership, and deep community ties will help propel our mission forward,” says Sayad Moudachirou, Ovations Board President. “Their talent and passion … Read more

As a valued Member of Ovations, you likely already know how remarkable Mary is. Whether you’ve spoken with her when calling our office or met her at a performance or event, Mary embodies everything Ovations stands for: community, art, and excellence. Over the past 20 years, Mary has been instrumental in shaping our organization, serving … Read more

Portland Ovations welcomes Los Angeles-based dance company CONTRA-TIEMPO to Portland for a multi-day residency connecting with community, educating youth dancers, and rehearsing with Maine-based artists, all culminating in the February 6 performance of joyUS justUS at 7 PM at Merrill Auditorium, ASL interpretation by Holly Maniatty.  CONTRA-TIEMPO, a bold, multilingual, activist dance- theater company, inspires … Read more

In honor of the holiday season and end of the calendar year. Portland Ovations has whipped up our very own “12 Months of POV.”  Sing at your own risk!

The story of “Dear Evan Hansen” contains themes and stories that are prominent and familiar to most of us: bullying, anxiety, depression, and suicide. Portland Ovations is teaming up with the Center for Grieving Children to provide support for audiences attending the Portland, Maine performances. In addition to being in the lobby of Merrill Auditorium … Read more

Our Contemporary Dance Audience Guide is an informative and historical look at contemporary dance and Ovations’ history with the art form. Read artist profiles to learn more about who is performing in the upcoming season, see a timeline of Ovations history with contemporary dance, learn about iconic choreographer Alvin Ailey and more. This is a fun … Read more

After a rigorous search and meeting dozens of candidates, Portland Ovations is thrilled to have three new staff joining the team, bringing the total number of full-time staff to 10. Clarissa Shirley joins as Development Manager, Nicole Byrne joins as Foundations & Major Gifts Manager, and Ciara Neidlinger as Artist Services and Production Coordinator “We … Read more

Portland Ovations is honored to welcome Lynn Teo and Mary Wellehan to the Board of Directors. “Lynn and Mary’s long-term support and commitment to Maine communities’ well-being connects well with Ovations mission to propel economic wellbeing of communities through the power of performing art,” said Sayad Moudachirou, President of the Ovations Board. “We look forward to … Read more

Join Portland Ovations and pianist Miki Sawada for Gather Hear Portland, an afternoon of free music in downtown Portland’s Congress Square Park on Saturday, September 28 at 2 PM. Gather Hear both celebrates and re-imagines Ovations’ 94-year history of presenting the finest in classical and chamber music. Featuring a program tailored specifically to Portland, Gather … Read more

Portland Ovations is excited to announce the addition of Life Be Lifin’ starring the dynamic Monét X Change to the 2024-25 season. In line with its commitment to celebrating and supporting the art of drag, Portland Ovations is proud to bring this electrifying performance to the State Theatre in Portland on Saturday, January 25, 2025, … Read more