Performing Arts❯Dance❯Ballet

This fall, Portland welcomes an extraordinary celebration of classical ballet as PRIMA Ballet Gala brings together artists of the Grand Kyiv Ballet and international guest performers for one unforgettable night.

More than a performance, PRIMA Ballet Gala is a night of elevated artistry – where timeless classics meet contemporary expression, and the stage becomes a space of beauty, power, and emotion.

The program features iconic highlights from world-renowned ballets including Don Quixote, Spartacus, and The Dying Swan, alongside vibrant national dance such as the thrilling Hopak, set to music by legendary composers including Tchaikovsky.

Begin your evening on the red carpet, then step inside for a celebration of artistic excellence and international cultural connection.
Guests are warmly encouraged to attend in the evening attire, helping create an atmosphere of elegance worthy of this special occasion.

Join us for a rare opportunity to experience world-class dancers, timeless choreography, and a night filled with beauty and inspiration.

Seats are limited. Be part of PRIMA Ballet Gala — where ballet speaks from the heart.

For over two decades, Railroad Earth has captivated audiences with gleefully unpredictable live shows and eloquent and elevated studio output. The group introduced its signature sound on 2001’s The Black Bear Sessions. Between selling out hallowed venues such as Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, CO, they’ve been responsible for launching signature festivals Hangtown Music Festival in Placerville, CA and Hillberry: The Harvest Moon Festival in Eureka Springs, AR. Sought after by legends, the John Denver Estate tapped them to put lyrics penned by the late John Denver to music on the 2019 vinyl EP, Railroad Earth: The John Denver Letters. Beyond tallying tens of millions of streams, the collective has earned widespread critical acclaim from David Fricke of Rolling Stone, American Songwriter, Glide Magazine, and NPR, who assured, “Well-versed in rambling around, as you might expect from a band named after a Jack Kerouac poem, the New Jersey-built jam-grass engine Railroad Earth has let no moss grow under its rustic wheels.”

Nick Dumas leads on mandolin and vocals, bringing the soulful foundation he learned from his dobro-playing grandfather in Washington State, now living in Wisconsin. Nick is a former member of Grammy-nominated Special Consensus and a three-time IBMA award winner. Nick has performed across the globe and recently released his solo album "Details" on Nashville's Skyline Records. Nick now has three new singles released on Skyline Records from a soon-to-come project, all of which have made it to #1 on the bluegrass airplay charts. When not touring with the trio or his own band, "Nick Dumas and Branchline," Nick teaches mandolin lessons at home and with The Fiddler's Farm Band in WI. He also co-founded the well-known Northwest bands "Northern Departure" and "North Country Bluegrass".

Chris Luquette showcases his virtuosic guitar work alongside vocals, drawing from his 11 years with the celebrated Frank Solivan and Dirty Kitchen. This multi-instrumentalist has shared stages with Jerry Douglas, Emmylou Harris, and The Steep Canyon Rangers, earning multiple IBMA awards and a Grammy nomination along the way. Originally from Seattle's vibrant music scene and now based in New York City, Chris brings an eclectic musical palette that spans from traditional bluegrass to world music influences. Chris is a co-founder of Northern Departure along with Nick.

Andrew Knapp anchors the trio with his exceptional bass playing and rich vocals. He is one of the premier bassists to come out of the Pacific Northwest. Andrew can also be seen with Seattle-based bluegrass band The Warren G. Hardings, as well as Nick Dumas and Branchline. As a classically trained jazz bassist, he has performed with nationally recognized artists such as Kenny Garrett and Terence Blanchard, toured Europe and Brazil, and played on ships for Carnival Cruise Lines. Also, a graduate of the Whitworth University Jazz program. He is one of the best in the business.

Some evenings stay with you forever. This fall, Portland welcomes an extraordinary celebration of classical ballet as PRIMA Ballet Gala brings together artists of the Grand Kyiv Ballet and international guest performers for one unforgettable night. More than a performance, PRIMA Ballet Gala is a night of elevated artistry – where timeless classics meet contemporary expression, and the stage becomes a space of beauty, power, and emotion.

The program features iconic highlights from world-renowned ballets, including Don Quixote, Spartacus, and The Dying Swan, alongside vibrant national dances such as the thrilling Hopak, set to music by legendary composers such as Tchaikovsky. Begin your evening on the red carpet, then step inside for a celebration of artistic excellence and international cultural connection. Guests are warmly encouraged to attend in evening attire, helping create an atmosphere of elegance worthy of this special occasion.

Join a rare opportunity to experience world-class dancers, timeless choreography, and a night filled with beauty and inspiration.

Seats are limited. Be part of PRIMA Ballet Gala — where ballet speaks from the heart.

Super-Deluxe Fiddle, Banjo, and Song

Through twenty years and a couple of thousand shows together in bands such as The Foggy Hogtown Boys and The Lonesome Ace Stringband, John Showman and Chris Coole have developed a deep and instinctual musical bond. Their music lurks in a truly unique space, somewhere on the outskirts of old-time, bluegrass, and folk. The songs of John Hartford, Hank Williams, Dock Boggs, and The Band share space with the fiddle tunes of Eck Robertson and Ed Haley. The duo's original songs and tunes take in all these vistas and paint something both personal and timely.

They have performed across North America and Europe at festivals such as Merlefest, Rockygrass, Greyfox, Winnipeg Folk Festival, Mariposa, Wintergrass, The Delaware Valley Bluegrass Festival, and The Bluegrass Hall of Fame and Museum. In addition to the five Lonesome Ace albums, John and Chris have released two duo albums - " Afield" a collection of old-time fiddle tunes, and "Much Further Out than Inevitable - A Tribute to Some Music of John Hartford."

"Powerful musicians, playing and singing some powerful music" - Bluegrass Unlimited

"Danceable, poppy, and soulful, it's old-time that's modern and timeless, both" - Bluegrass Situation

(Roddy Campbell, Penguin Eggs Magazine)

Artichoke Community Music class hosted by Megan Cronin, $175 for seven sessions, drop-ins $30 per session. This class will be held at Taborspace, an off-site location. This class is for beginner-ish and intermediate violin and fiddle players who want a chance to play their favorite songs with others in a supportive setting. At the start of this series the instructor will present 10 tunes in the genres of folk, jazz, bluegrass, Irish, blues, pop and/or classical. Students will vote in three of these tunes to work on over the course of the term. Financial Hardship Discount Available Wondering if you are at the right aptitude for this class? If you can work through some or most of the Suzuki Violin Book One, then you will be totally fine in this class (just google "Suzuki Violin Book One PDF" to check it out). You’re welcome to pay the instructor directly at your first class to avoid service fees. Contact Megan via email when you register for a drop-in date, if you plan to pay in-person or if you have any other questions about the class. More information & registration: megancroninmusic.com/violin-fiddle-democracy Website: https://www.megancroninmusic.com/ Feel free to contact the instructor for more information: musiclessonsbymegan(*at*)gmail.com Refund Policy: Refunds up to 7 days before event

Weekend matinees play from 1-3 pm, free, all ages. Oct 3 (Sat): Blue Pine - Americana/alt-country rock band Oct 4 (Sun): Tuba Django - playing in the style of Django Reinhardt with a twist of Tuba! Oct 10 (Sat): Thunder Ridge - straight-ahead bluegrass Oct 11 (Sun): Ashley Seaton & the TK Swing All-Stars - Portland’s hottest jazz ensemble Oct 17 (Sat): Marilee Hord‘s Bluegrass Matinee (subbing for Josh Cole) - good, old-fashioned bluegrass Oct 18 (Sun): Kung Pao Chickens - the finest in Django-esque Roma jazz Oct 24 (Sat): Filthy Skillets (bluegrass matinee) - putting their own twist on traditional bluegrass Oct 25 (Sun): Sleepy Lagoon - Pete Krebs, Doug Sammons (Midnight Serenaders) playing 20s/30s jazz, Hawaiian, and exotica with vocal harmonies Oct 31 (Sat): The Sixties (Frank "Buzz Holland" Goodman & Joe Chiusano) - laying down the grooves of that golden era Nov 1 (Sun): Ashley Seaton & the TK Swing All-Stars - Portland’s hottest jazz ensemble Nov 7 (Sat): Blue Pine - Americana/alt-country rock band Nov 8 (Sun): Sweet Preserves - traditional acoustic New Orleans jazz Nov 15 (Sun): Kung Pao Chickens - the finest in Django-esque Roma jazz Nov 21 (Sat): Josh Cole‘s Bluegrass Matinee - good, old-fashioned bluegrass

Can Can’s holiday show turns the Nutcracker inside out for grown-ups. An innocent absinthe toast at a holiday soirée sends Clara tumbling into a dreamscape of marching soldiers, mischievous mice, swirling snowflakes, and sugarplum visions. The score is Can Can’s own adaptation of the Nutcracker music, mixed with new original songs and holiday classics, and the dancing runs from classic and modern to aerial and burlesque, with plenty of comedy. Evening performances are 21+ with valid ID.

Join us every Monday from 6:30–10 pm at The Hostel Cafe for our weekly Open Mic Night, a cozy, community-focused space where local and traveling musicians share original songs, covers, and acoustic sets. Enjoy live music, good vibes, and cafe drinks while discovering new talent and supporting our featured performers. If you‘re looking for open mic music events in Portland or a friendly spot to play, The Hostel Cafe is the place to be every Monday night. This is a free event, but we encourage you to tip our featured performers! 10/19 (Sat): Ross Island Ramblers featuring Richard Melling (lead guitar and songwriter), Karen McCracken (guitar and clawhammer banjo), the hot fiddle of Olivia Horgan, melodic mandolin of Rollie Champe and the rock-solid bass of Michelle Traver.

The World’s MOST Iconic Ballet — With a LIVE Orchestra!

The legendary tale of Swan Lake takes flight in a breathtaking production from World Ballet Company, as fate and magic entwine in a timeless battle between good and evil. Performing with a Live Orchestra, and featuring a cast of 50 international dancers, over 150 radiant hand-sewn costumes, and stunning hand-crafted sets, this spellbinding ballet captures every heart-pounding moment — from the Dance of the Little Swans to the Black Swan’s 32 fouettés, and every pirouette in between.

With Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score soaring through the air and played LIVE, immerse yourself in this mesmerizing journey where dreams, heartbreak, and hope unfold right before your eyes.

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes (including 20-minute intermission)
Audience: For ages 5 & over

*About the Company: Based in Los Angeles, and led by Sasha Gorskaya and Gulya Hartwick, World Ballet Company presents the most beloved and iconic ballets of our time in cities nationwide. Driven by the belief that ballet is for everyone, performances appeal to newcomers and seasoned ballet goers alike. The company attracts many international artists and comprises renowned professional dancers representing over ten countries.

To date, World Ballet Company has traveled to more than 300 cities, reaching an audience of more than 500,000 fans.

Make it a group experience! Special pricing is available for groups of 10 or more.

Formed by musicians with a passion for the Northwest outdoors, Jawbone Flats takes its name from the ghost town of the same name nestled deep in the Opal Creek Wilderness of Oregon. Since 2008 JBF has traveled throughout Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Northern California playing an eclectic blend of original and cover songs drawing from the influences of bluegrass, country, alternative country, blues, and rock music led by five alternating lead singers backed by lush harmonies. Interlocking melodies from B-bender Telecaster and acoustic guitars, mandolin, harmonica, and pedal steel guitar are woven into the solid rhythmic fabric of fretless bass and drums to produce a wonderfully entertaining, irresistibly danceable, and downright “flatifying” sound.

About a month ago, we lost our beloved fellow musician Jere Hudson. Jere was a true light in every gathering, and he will be sorely missed. We are planning a jam in his honor, where we will play some of his favorite tunes. Cajun, old-time, bluegrass, folk, Irish: anything goes. All are welcome. Also please note that we need to buy any alcohol at the venue.

Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty has arrived in Portland. This beloved tale is brought to life through classical dance, stunning choreography, and beautiful glow-in-the-dark costumes. Get your tickets for Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty in a Sparkling Show.

Step into a world where light and dance intertwine in this breathtaking retelling of Sleeping Beauty. As dancers glide across the stage, their illuminated costumes create a dazzling display of color and light, making every twirl and leap feel otherworldly. This isn’t just a ballet show—it’s a magical experience that brings a beloved classic to life in a way you’ve never seen before.

Modern Old-Time Music for the Bluegrass and Folksong Jamboree

The Portland Ballet celebrates 25 years with a holiday double bill. Paquita brings the color and energy of 19th-century Spain to the stage, its classical solos and group dances building to a lively finale. And Benjamin Britten’s The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra comes to life through vibrant movement, introducing each section of the orchestra before it all comes together.

Some of the best bands start with a plan. Others start with a few musicians, a couple of beers, and a shared love of bluegrass.

Meadowlark String Band was born right here at Tomorrow’s Verse Taproom, where its members first connected through our weekly Bluegrass & Brews jam. What began as Tuesday night pickin’ sessions grew into a band built on musical chemistry, friendship, and a love for making music together.

Rooted in the communal spirit of bluegrass, Meadowlark String Band is a perfect example of what happens when musicians come together, share a few tunes, and let the music take them somewhere new.

From our weekly jam to the Tomorrow’s Verse stage, we couldn't be happier to see this band take flight!

$5 cover

Every Tuesday, something pretty special happens at Tomorrow's Verse Taproom. Musicians pull up a chair, listeners grab a pint, and for a couple of hours the room turns into the kind of community space that's getting harder and harder to find. No stage, no spotlight, no barriers—just people sharing songs, stories, and a love of live music.

Whether you play, listen, or just enjoy being around good people, Bluegrass and Brews is a place to connect. Discover your new favorite musician, catch up with neighbors, and support a group of local pickers who keep traditional music alive, one tune at a time.

Pull up a chair. Order a pint. Stay awhile. The music's better when the room (or courtyard) is full.

The legendary tale of Swan Lake takes flight in a breathtaking production from World Ballet Company, as fate and magic entwine in a timeless battle between good and evil. Performing with a Live Orchestra, and featuring a cast of 50 international dancers, over 150 radiant hand-sewn costumes, and stunning hand-crafted sets, this spellbinding ballet captures every heart-pounding moment — from the Dance of the Little Swans to the Black Swan’s 32 fouettés, and every pirouette in between.

With Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score soaring through the air and played LIVE, immerse yourself in this mesmerizing journey where dreams, heartbreak, and hope unfold right before your eyes.

All performances 6-8 pm (unless otherwise extended), free, 21+ Oct 20 (Tue): The Pagan Jug Band - a delightful mix of jug, blues, country, bluegrass and hokum Oct 21 (Wed): The Get Down Funk Collective [extended to 9 pm] - infectious blend of funk, soul, R&B, and jazz Oct 23 (Fri): Michelle Alany & The Mystics - soulful interpretations of traditional and original sephardic, balkan, and israeli songs infused with her tasty Austin-blues stylings Oct 24 (Sat): Bad Assets [extended to 9 pm] - rowdy country-rock with blazing Telecaster guitar Oct 25 (Sun): Freak Mountain Ramblers - off-beat, edgy, weird, wonderful Oct 26 (Mon): Portland Country Underground - a bunch of old friends hanging out and playing roots and country music they love. Oct 27 (Tue): Jackstraw - bluegrass, honky-tonk, and rock ‘n roll Oct 28 (Wed): Rhapsody in Red [extended to 9 pm] - excellent female-fronted Grateful Dead cover band Oct 29 (Thu): Lewi Longmire & The Lookouts - Lewi Longmire (guitar) and Sydney Nash (bass) will be bringing in Micah Kassell (drums- Scott Law Band) and perhaps other guests Oct 30 (Fri): Supernatural Beavers - rock ‘n‘ roll, blues, psych, and outlaw country Oct 31 (Sat): The Electric Stomp - solidly earthy Americana and folk-rock with a touch of island breeze Nov 1 (Sun): An Evening of Jimmy Boyer Music [extended to 10 pm] Nov 2 (Mon): The Waysiders - a new brand of classic country all their own Nov 3 (Tue): Lost Creek Bluegrass Band - two parts traditional bluegrass, one part old-time fiddle tunes, and a splash of honkytonk Nov 4 (Wed): QuEasy Gumbo [extended to 9 pm] - the Quick and Easy Boys with Steve Kerin Nov 5 (Thu): Lewi Longmire & The Left Coast Roasters - rowdy roots rock and roll with a classic heart! Nov 6 (Fri): The Family Band - country-fried and southern roots-rock Nov 7 (Sat): The Resolectrics - rock & soul power trio Nov 8 (Sun): Freak Mountain Ramblers - off-beat, edgy, weird, wonderful

Every Saturday, 9 am to noon, the best of traditional and contemporary bluegrass and old time music, and information about local shows and festivals! First Saturday: Justin Auld Second Saturday: Dave Elliott 3rd Saturday: Gareth Jenkins 4th Saturday: Chip Russell 5th Saturday: Donna Dunaif, Melissa Tanguay, Chuck Holloway Previous shows available on the KBOO program page at https://kboo.fm/program/music-true-vine.

Every Thursday Join in the Bluegrass Jam Session or just enjoy the tunes!!

Starts at 6PM

Portland's longest running and hands down BEST bluegrass night.

#barnearme #beer #bluegrass #taproom

Music in the country style, including western & western swing, cowboy & country blues, country folk, bluegrass, rockabilly, hillbilly, Americana, and honky tonk. hosted by Robert Parish, Wayne and Kathy Johnson, Wayne Selzer, Mary Rondthaler, and Gary Baysinger. 1st Saturday - Robert Parish along with son Graham play sets featuring particular artists as well as sets with a variety of artist. 2nd Saturday, Wayne and Kathy - Variety of country, western, western swing, country folk, country blues, bluegrass, rockabilly and Americana. 3rd Saturday - Will Selzer - Blends all types & styles of country music from 50+ years, rooted in mid-20th century, men and women artists equally. The goal is to entertain our listeners and to have fun. 4th Saturday - Mary - Bringing a musician’s ear to the collective with a focus on older country and Western swing from the ‘30s to the ‘70s, always with a good dose of women artists. 5th Saturday - Gary - Countrypolitan Blues - A mix of eastern philosophy and western swing; the yin, the yang, and the do-si-do. Past shows available on the program page at https://kboo.fm/program/swing-n-country.

Open bluegrass jam at Tomorrow‘s Verse Taproom and Bottle Shop. Come join the jam every Tuesday with host Rich Landar. All levels of pickers are welcome to join in on the fun. Don‘t play? Come listen! This will be a traditional style bluegrass circle, where people can join in as much as they‘d like.

Join the jam! Bring your guitar, fiddle, mandolin or banjo to our weekly bluegrass jam circle. Players with intermediate skills and above are invited to this Tuesday tradition. New faces welcome!

A bluegrass "Pickin' On" series