I love Deep End Theater -- let me count the ways! Deep End has truly changed my life and become one…read moreof the most important communities I've ever been part of. First and foremost, Domeka is the real deal. She's lived and breathed improv and theater her whole life, studying, traveling, teaching, and learning from some of the greats. In the process, she developed her own approach to improvisation and theater that is deeper than many other styles, focusing more on what we can find in the depth of emergence together than on getting laughs or following any specific rules. She instantly creates a safe, welcoming space for everyone, meets each person where they are, and challenges them to take the next step. Her teaching is organic and approachable: she sets the work in motion, then helps us see how those exercises deepen our improv and stagecraft. Deep End is where I found myself as an actor and improviser. I stopped overthinking and started allowing scenes to emerge--without having to be clever or forced. The magic comes from surrendering to whatever develops: sometimes hilarious, sometimes deeply emotional, sometimes surreal or fantastical. The result is always honest, human, and wildly entertaining. And fun! Domeka has gathered a diverse, talented group of improvisers, and the shows she directs are treasures. I've gone to the same show multiple times and each performance is unique and delightful. She also brings in amazing guest teachers and performers for Skinny Dip, Master Classes, and special events, so the learning never stops. There are so many ways to plug in: Shows (nominal ticket, absolutely worth it--go to the same show more than once!), Skinny Dip open nights ($5 to watch, free to play), three-hour Master Classes on focused skills, six-week classes (two hours/week with a final performance), free intro Workshops, and occasional weekend intensives. For three years the weekly classes have been the highlight of my week--learning, collaborating, playing, laughing, crying, and growing in a supportive space. Deep End isn't about being funny or clever; it's about trusting each other, trusting the work, trusting oneself, and seeing what emerges. I'm becoming a better actor, improviser, and human--deeper in awareness, compassion, and connection. I can't recommend Deep End Theater enough. Try something: go to a Skinny Dip, see a show, take a Master Class, or join a six-week course. You'll leave energized, inspired, and changed--in a good way. I hope to see you there!

Zoom, an improvised show. Fri/Sat til Sept. 26th. Fantastic!…read moreWhat a night. A meditation, a laugh riot, moving themes, wild comedy, great acting. You gotta see Zoom.

I don't live in Oregon anymore, and haven't for some time now. It's disgusting what your previous…read morestaff allowed to happen to my son. He was punched in the face by some kid, yet you threw my son out! How about you do the right thing, that should have been done years ago, and refund my $225 that I saved all year for the privileged of attending this camp to be ridiculed and abused!

From the truly devastating impact of NCLB on our schools that amounted to the destruction of…read morebudgets--that have little recovered--supporting art programs to our film industry that takes little risk and that in 2017 will have produced its 9th X-Men film, it is clear that art in this country is in crisis and really it has been for some time. PAC is an institution that pushes back against this force of pervasive cultural beiging, and it has done so for decades in Portland producing scores of young actresses and actors that now contribute to theater across the city and country. Highly recommended to visit their shows or participate in their classes.

Shelly's class was precisely what you want if you have professional aspirations (or if you simply…read morewant to endeavor in something truly enriching and exciting). A mix of learning and refining acting skills, on-camera work, and audition drills. And since Shelly was steeped in the rough and tumble of Hollywood, you can trust he knows what works, and he can answer those questions only someone whose been on the front lines of high-end TV/Film production will know. His acting notes are incisive, spot on. I was a better actor when classes ended than I was when they began. What was really fun was watching my classmates get better right in front of my eyes, and absolutely confirmed the effectiveness of his instruction. HIGHLY recommend Shelly, regardless of your skill level.

Shelly was an absolutely wonderful and generous teacher, and I could not recommend this class…read moreenough. It is not only great for those looking to work on their acting technique, but the best part is the added bonus of the class structured around getting comfortable acting on camera. I benefited/learned so much from Shelly's feedback and instruction and also from being able to observe my work directly after filming a variety of different exercises. Thanks so much for a great experience, Shelly!

I am a bit surprised that this was my first time here. I have been seeing performances throughout…read morePortland for decades. You see a performance and you get ads for several others. A friend I go with to other events stumbled upon this production, and we're both down for anything involving vampires... couple of old school Goth pals. This show was our jam and we had a great time! They offer discount for us folks who are on benefits qualifying us for Arts for All. We definitely appreciate being included. Also, they are ADA friendly for their seats but please note that the entrance might be a challenge. I try to lead with the positives... I have not ventured to this area for some time , and I forgot the logistics of parking. There is parking within blocks but if you are ADA, you will likely need to have your person.Drop you because they are gonna need to walk a bit. Since i'm the driver, it's a journey. I got there closer to show time, then I would have liked due to traffic and parking. There's a fairly large number of businesses right there - venues.... I had to try numerous times to get into the entrance , which is really hard when you're balancing on a cane, but the door was locked. As I was walking up and holding my phone, a guy walked up in front of me to buy a ticket with cash while going on and on and on about how he wanted to support the arts. The one person working the counter was doing a really awkward long form explanation about how to see a play... Finally he walks back to me, asking if he can help... I show him the ticket TWICE and then he asks what the name is on the ticket. Then goes back to asking to see the ticket, back and forth. I can hear them starting and I still have to walk all the way around to the curtain to go in. He then looks at the cane and suggests that he come hold the curtain so that I can walk in. Like I don't know what you gotta do... I have just spent a ridiculous time in the lobby for 0 reasons. They have concessions... it seemed like a selection of wine and snacks... My friend who purchased the tickets for us told me an insane tale. Normally I am the one who buys the tickets for us - we're both Arts for All. She said that oddly, she had a bit of back and forth with somebody who worked at the theater 2 days before the show saying that they didn't know if they were going to have a show because not enough people had bought tickets. She said the person told her that they might do a live stream instead. I was like wait what? It was weird. Watching a live stream and a live performance are two completely different things... so she had to call the day of to make sure that the production was still happening. My point is seeing a show here was really lovely... but also there's a bit of chaos so prepare for that. When we were leaving, we walked past one of the actresses who was in full blown relationship/dating drama with some dude (seriously gurl, you seem super awesome... dump him).

Great theater with wonderful shows. Staff is very friendly.Only challenges that don't have their…read moreown parking lot and the neighborhood could sometimes be hard to find street parking in

All around win for me…read more Tyler, the director of Post5 has made a sound effort to create a company and space that are an alternative to the standard Shakespeare theatre world. They started with a dream of something different and they have achieved something grand! Some of the plays hit home in their own ways but more and more they all are reaching something tangible in your emotional response. The first of last summer was fun and a bit heavier whilst this last one, "comedy of errors" was a light and cheering story true to the original but taking all of those things we love and hate about our city to laugh at together. It was pure genius. So proud to be connected to that world and support it! The space is warm in the summer so bring something to fan yourself with. They provide ice cold water bottles at times and apologetic smiles for the heat but the shows are well worth the small suffering. It's a charming quirky church anex that not only allows such tomfoolery as shakespeare but even a drag show after our first experience! The lovely Isis or Chip depending on his role is absolute brilliance in any role they cast him for. And thus far 2016 has proven to produce some amazing works already! Support this local troop and venue! go Post5!

Awesome, these guys (and gals) are just awesome!…read more I went here to see a play that a buddy of mine suggested and I was not disappointed. It was like watching a movie, but real life, up close and personal. The stage props, lighting, and sound all come together nicely with the terrific acting to give you a very dramatic and emotional experience. There were moments that put me into deep thought and anticipation, then moments later I was laughing my ass off! Very well done. They also serve food and beverages and have a full bar to take advantage of. They have intermissions so you can go back for more if needed. I will definitely be back to watch another one. I'd recommend taking family or friends, or even a date for a fun-filled, entertaining night!

Brooke is an incredibly present, clear, direct, enthusiastic, and of course talented teacher/mentor…read morecoach. I'm only in my second month of classes but Brooke not only made me feel welcomed from the beginning, but respected as an artist! If you're looking for a coach who will give you feedback that's honest, helpful, kind while still being direct, aka the most rare and wonderful kind, take Brooke's class!!!!!!! It's also so fun & she creates a safe, comfortable, funny atmosphere.

As a comedy writer/producer myself, I can't recommend Brooke enough. She is a rare talent and an…read moreextremely gifted teacher.

Do not be fooled by this small theater group! I have been delighted several times at their…read moreperformances over the years when able to attend. The commitment to Shakespearean prose is beyond commendable. Each time I see them perform, I feel the excitement of reading a Shakespeare play for the first time. That truly does come from the acting and is such a grand time. They're also very accommodating - I am so grateful as I am ADA with mobility challenges that change daily so knowing that they care is relieving. Many times us ADA folks can't attend things because, even places that state they are compliant... are really unhelpful. They also offer Arts for All and without forcing us to jump through ridiculous hoops although if I had the money, I would gladly donate a lot to these wonderful performers!

What a lovely way to learn how to create art, and to learn something about yourself at the same…read moretime. So much of what Phil teaches spills into other areas of life too--areas where perfectionism and self-criticism reside. He helps us be more gentle with ourselves as we approach creativity. The energy in the room is not competitive, it is supportive and helpful. People return, year after year, to retake the "beginner" classes, in part to stay in touch with the beginner mindset and sense of wonder. The Drawing Studio is wonderful!

If you're looking for an art class where the instructor shows you how to hold your brush to paint…read moreclouds, this is not the class for you. Phil Sylvester does something much more valuable: he helps you to ignore critical thinking when you paint (or draw--he has drawing classes, too). Keeping your left brain from sabotaging your artwork can be a formidable task for some people, myself included. Phil basically helps you become that 5 year old kid with crayons again, where you have no expectations of what your art is supposed to be. His exercises encourage you just to paint, while he cites mantras from himself and other artists amid occasional music. This process leads you down a path where you find yourself and lose yourself at the same time. I can honestly say, in the short time I have been painting, that Phil has made me a better artist. Any class which does that is a good thing. So I suggest taking classes that teach techniques and color theory as well as taking the types of classes offered at the Drawing Studio. Every time you expand your horizons as an artist your soul will benefit.