What I Learned In Paris
By Pearl Cleage
February 8th – March 26th, 2023
Directed by Lou Bellamy
Presented in partnership with Penumbra Theatre
Runtime: Approx 2.5hrs, which includes a 15 minute intermission
For What I Learned in Paris, masks are optional but strongly recommended for most performances. There are a number of performances that will be mask required to offer a space for patrons who would prefer to experience the show in a masked-required environment. Please see the ticket page for more information.
BIPOC Performances
Wed, February 15th, 7.30pm
Sun, February 26th, 2pm
Friday, March 3rd, 7.30pm
ABOUT
It’s 1973, and political change is in the Atlanta air – but so too is love.
A tangled web of romantic intrigue, set against the backdrop of a historic campaign win for Maynard Jackson, who has just been elected Atlanta’s first first African American mayor.
J.P. Madison (Lester Purry), a prominent lawyer, is riding high after the good news of this hard-fought election win, alongside him, his new wife Ann (Lauren Steele), stalwart campaigner Lena (Vinecia Coleman), and his junior partner, John (La’ Tevin Alexander). But then, JP’s ex-wife Eve (Cycerli Ash) sweeps back into town and brings with her the temptation of knowledge from far flung corners of the world.
This turn of events promises to turn lives upside down as each character is confronted with expectations, obligations and human emotions and the pull and tug that destiny has on our lives.
Throw in a steamy love triangle, and What I Learned in Paris promises to turn up the heat. So, why not escape the dreary drizzle of a Portland winter, and steal a few hours caught up in this funny, touching, romance.
Digital Playbill
PRESS
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
- Michael Quintos, Broadway World: "At its core, the show is a hopeful, positive reminder that unconditional kindness does still exist in our world..."
- Tom Williams, Chicago Critic: "The clever plot twists and the fully developed characters make for a funny, empathetic romp."
- Collin Kelley, Atlanta in Town: “The result is delightful entertainment, more romantic than political… Ms. Cleage has a wonderful gift for fine, fluid dialogue.”
CAST
Cycerli Ash* Eve Madison
Vinecia Coleman Lena Jefferson
La'Tevin Alexander*^ John Nelson
Lester Purry* J.P. Madison
Lauren Steele* Ann Madison
Andrea Vernae*^ Understudy – Ann, Eve & Lena
Eric Island Understudy – J.P & John
CREATIVE TEAM
Playwright Pearl Cleage
Director Lou Bellamy *(SDC)
Scenic Designer Vicki Smith~
Costume Designer Dana Woods~
Lighting Designer Miranda Hardy
Properties Assistant Ryann St Julien
Stage Manager David Levine*
Cultural Competency Consultant Keela Johnson
Assistant Stage Manager Imani Henry+
Costume Assistant Maia Denzler^
Dramaturg May Mahala
Covid Compliance Officer Cassie Greer*
Head Carpenter Brent Hall
Head Electrician Allison Blaine
Scenic Artist Sumi Wu
Sound Engineer Natalie Scott
Furniture Carpenter Jim Lykins
Upholster Sara Paradis
Production Assistant Maia Denzler^
Production Apprentice Recobe Scott+
Appears as courtesy of Actor's Equity
Portland Playhouse Apprentice Company Member
Former Portland Playhouse Apprentice Company Member
Thank you to our show sponsors:
Jon Betlinski
Karen Fink
Thank You to These Funders
Interested in Getting Involved?
We are always looking for volunteers as well as apprentices, crew members and corporate partnerships.