Started in 2016 as a platform for exploring projects informed and inspired by religious and spiritual life, Seeking Resonance continues to evolve, reflecting the concerns and conversations of our communities, as we explore the intersection of art, engagement, and social change. At its heart, Seeking Resonance is about the vibrational essence of connecting with place, each other, and self.
2026-27 Seeking Resonance Series – Programmed in partnership with Indigo Arts Alliance
This dynamic season features three unique Ovations Offstage events that examine the evolving relationship between technology and the human experience of creating and engaging with art. Spanning disciplines and emerging media, the series explores how technology and digital tools such as artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR/VR) can deepen social connection, evoke empathy, and reimagine participation in the arts. The series prioritizes the health, visibility, and well-being of historically underrepresented communities, including LGBTQ+ artists and audiences, Native artists, and people with disabilities at a moment of seismic change—when human-centered creation is being both expanded and challenged. The series asks urgent questions: Who is the maker? Who is the audience? What does “live” performance mean in increasingly mediated spaces? And how are artists utilizing these tools to enhance—rather than replace—the inherent humanity in their art? Events to be announced, check the Portland Ovations website, or stay connected through email or social media to learn more.
Past Seasons
2025-26 Seeking Resonance Series
In 2025-2026 Seeking Resonance continues an exploration of borders – geopolitical, superimposed, and self-defined – and the role the arts can play in bringing peoples together and holding culture. We invite artists, scholars, and local leaders to share their experiences and insights throughout the season, through thematically linked performances and Ovations Offstage events.
2024-25 Seeking Resonance Series: Borders
In Partnership with Indigo Arts Alliance
2023-24 Seeking Resonance Series: Legacy
In Partnership with Indigo Arts Alliance
2022-23 Seeking Resonance Events
In Partnership with Indigo Arts Alliance
From stories of migration to diasporic art forms, we travelled the world with the many Black, Brown and Indigenous peoples, cultures and artistic expressions that make up our global community. Together, we explored our deep need to find “home:” a space and place that makes us feel whole – where we feel joyful, safe, valued and loved.
2021-22 Season
In Partnership with Indigo Arts Alliance
2020-21 Season (Virtual Events)
- Kennedy Center Arts Across America “Sacred Resonance”
- Being Future Beings (Virtual Conversation)
2019-20 Season
- The Kingdom Choir
- Boston Camerata: Free America
- GuGu Drum Group
2018-19 Season
- The Orlando Consort: “Voices Appeared”
- Ranky Tanky
- Niyaz
2017-18 Season
- Simon Shaheen: “Zafir”
- Sandglass Theater: “Babylon”
- Ladysmith Black Mambazo
2016-17 Season
Portland Ovations initiated Seeking Resonance in 2016 to explore performance inspired by religious and spiritual life.
- A Far Cry featuring David Krakauer: “Dreams & Prayers”
- The LeeVees featuring Adam Gardner of Guster
- The Jones Family Singers
- Yuval Ron Ensemble featuring Dervish Aziz: “Seeker of Truth”
- Ragamala Dance Company: “Sacred Earth”