A joyful community sing-along led by Portland’s own Thomas Lauderdale of Pink Martini with many of Portland’s finest musical artists and chorale singers. Portland’s Tree Lighting Ceremony is the highlight of the holiday season in downtown. Join in this holiday tradition as Santa Claus ‘flips the switch’ to illuminate nearly 10,000 colorful lights on our City’s Tree that will shine bright throughout the holiday season.
Music & Libretto by Michael Ching
Based on a concept by Dean Anthony
Portland State University’s Opera program kicks off its 50th anniversary season with Michael Ching’s “Speed Dating Tonight!” (2013). Set over the course of a single evening at a local bar, this clever, heartwarming opera follows a revolving cast of singles searching for that elusive spark. There's the dreamer, the hopeless romantic, the bashful, the over-sharer, the chronically distracted, and everyone in between, each getting their moment in the spotlight through music that is equal parts tender, heartbreaking, and hilarious.
Written with duets and ensembles for up to 45 voices, “Speed Dating Tonight!” has a flexible modular structure that can be customized to fit any cast size, voice type, or gender identity. PSU Opera’s version of “Speed Dating Tonight!” features 35 song selections and arrangements specifically chosen to reflect the unique assortment of voices in the 12-member cast.
At its heart, this is a show about the universal human longing to be seen and cherished by another person. Woven through the interactions is another question: can a genuine connection actually happen in five minutes or less? With Michael Ching’s delightful opera, the answer is decidedly yes.
Visit the Speed Dating Tonight! web page to learn more about this production, including additional dates, cast and crew information, photos, and more as we get closer to opening night.
Learn more about the Opera program at Portland State University's School of Music & Theater.
Comedy: Our Bold Voices: World AIDS Day Open Mic at North Portland Library. Free.