FREQUENTLY
ASKED
QUESTIONS
Who Are Portland Actors Ensemble?
We are comprised of local artists with a passion for learning about, teaching, and sharing the works of William Shakespeare. We make a special effort to have varying levels of experience in our productions. With our focus being producing Shakespeare and educating, we open up our casting to both new and seasoned actors alike. Our performances are FOR everyone and have actors from all walks-of-life, and experience levels.
How Did Portland Actors Ensemble Get Started?
The program of “Free~Shakespeare~In~The~Parks” was started in 1970 by a local Portland actor and teacher to introduce the works of William Shakespeare to audiences that otherwise may not have a chance to see them, and provide an opportunity for actors, young and old, to experience an outdoor performance.
What is “Free~Shakespeare~In~The~Parks”?
“Free~Shakespeare~In~The~Parks” is exactly that! We put on a show in local Portland parks. The stage is grass. The props are minimal. There is no amplification but the lungs of actors. Sound effects are all foley or vocal in nature. What we share with our fellow Shakespearean productions is that our productions are fully costumed, our text fully studied, prepared, and performed with the same passion and vigor.
What is the mission of Portland Actors Ensemble?
The expressed mission of Portland Actors Ensemble is “To bring financially accessible classical theater to Portland communities in a non-traditional environment.” In practice, this means that the company is looking to create performances that accurately reflect the written text of Shakespeare’s works. We will make every attempt to capture what was intended by the text, as well as make as few edits as possible. This also means that many of Shakespeare’s works that we perform may very well contain themes and topics that are now taboo, or at minimum may make audiences uncomfortable at times. This is not done to be provocative, but rather to allow audiences to reflect on Shakespearean themes. What we do not edit from Shakespeare’s works is not a reflection of our own values, but rather a reflection of the values of Shakespeare himself, or the times in which the works were written.
Where does the donation money go?
Portland Actors Ensemble is a charitable organization, which means that those that donate to us can get a tax benefit by doing so. All funds that are donated to Portland Actors Ensemble are used to run and promote our shows, and the company itself.
Is everyone really a volunteer? No one gets paid?
Yes, it is true. No one involved with Portland Actors Ensemble gets paid. We all do this for the love of the craft and for the benefit of the audience. This does not mean that we do not appreciate everyone involved. We hope to offer a stipend in the future, supported by donations or grants.
Why Should I Support PAE?
While the expressed goal of Portland Actors Ensemble is “To bring financially accessible classical theater to Portland communities in a non-traditional environment,” we strive to do more than just provide a theatrical experience. We wish also to create a community of passionate artists and collaborators through community, workshops, and education endeavors.
What if there is inclement weather at the scheduled time of your performance?
We make every effort to perform when and where we have agreed to. We also recognize the safety risks in performing when it would be dangerous for our actors or our audiences. While we do not have an exact guideline for when we will cancel or postpone a show, we will not perform if the city has put out an advisory, stating that the public should stay home. (temperature, air quality, storm warning). Check our website or social media accounts for more details.
Who operates Portland Actors Ensemble? How is it run?
Portland Actors Ensemble is run by a board and an executive team. At present time, 3 of the 4 board members are operating as the executive team. For more information about how PAE is run, you can read our By-Laws, found here:
Portland Actors Ensemble By-Laws
The PAE Board
Our board currently operates with 4 people: Megan Murphy Ruckman, Matthew Murphy Ruckman, Melissa Sondergeld-Hood, and Elizabeth Esch Brown. The board is responsible for ensuring the financial viability of the non-profit, as well as ensuring that the company is behaving according to the by-laws and mission of the non-profit.
The PAE Executive Team
The Executive Team handles the day-to-day operations of the company. This includes scheduling performance locations, creation and printing of company materials, handling HR or personnel issues, etc. The executive team is currently comprised of members of the board of directors. This is to allow the board and executive teams to operate quickly and efficiently, particularly given the small size of the company.
How do I become a volunteer?
We always welcome help in the form of volunteers! Please send us a message via our website, or contact us directly at portlandactors@gmail.com!