Independent advisory groups recommend shared vision for Portland’s performing arts future

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(PORTLAND, ORE.) - Two independent advisory groups charged with evaluating the future of Portland's large-scale performance venues have reached strikingly similar recommendations, supporting a phased vision that maintains uninterrupted Broadway programming while planning for both a new Broadway-capable venue at Portland State University and the long-term future of the Keller Auditorium.

"This work is not only about the future of performing arts in Downtown - it is about the future of Portland; the future of our economy; and the future of our vibrancy, arts, and culture," said Mayor Keith Wilson. "I want to thank the members of the Steering Committee and the Ex Officio Table for their commitment and partnership in crafting these recommendations. I will be carefully reviewing them, along with the studies and analyses completed to date, as we bring this matter forward to Council."

Although convened separately and serving different roles in the planning process, two advisory bodies-the Mayor's Ex Officio Table and a separate Steering Committee-recommended a similar phased approach for the future of Portland's performing arts system. The Steering Committee focused on technical, cultural, economic, and community considerations, while the Mayor's Ex Officio Table brought together regional elected officials, arts leaders, labor representatives, and other interested parties to provide independent guidance.

While each group approached the project from a different perspective, both identified the importance of maintaining uninterrupted programming, including Broadway shows, while planning for long-term investments that strengthen Portland's performing arts ecosystem.

The recommendations emphasize several shared priorities:

• Avoiding a prolonged closure of the Keller Auditorium that could disrupt jobs; downtown economic activity; and programming, including Broadway shows;
• Advancing planning for a new Broadway-capable venue at Portland State University while maintaining operations at the Keller during construction;
• Beginning planning for the long-term future of the Keller Auditorium and surrounding site, including community engagement and additional financial and design analysis; and
• Continuing technical work to better define funding strategies, City obligations, project costs, and implementation timelines before future decisions are made.

In addition to recommending both a new Broadway-capable venue at Portland State University with a long-term vision for reimagining the Keller Auditorium and/or its site as an important civic asset, the Steering Committee also recommended developing agreements that support the long-term financial health of Portland'5 Centers for the Arts and the broader performing arts ecosystem. The committee has shared their recommendations with DCA Donnie Oliveira who has, in turn, shared them with Mayor Keith Wilson.

A majority of the members of the Mayor's Ex Officio Table also recommended pursuing a phased strategy further evaluating project costs, funding, return on investment, and implementation planning. Several members did not support the recommendation, reflecting the complexity of the issues under consideration.

"This milestone reflects years of collaboration and rigorous analysis focused on the future of Downtown large-scale performing arts venues," said Deputy City Administrator Donnie Oliveira. "The range of perspectives represented in this process underscores both the complexity and the importance of this decision for our city. Their insights will play a critical role in informing the Mayor's decision and the next steps with Council."

These recommendations will help inform future discussions by City leadership while they continue technical analysis, funding evaluation, and gathering public input regarding the future of Portland's performing arts facilities.

The City has updated the Future of Large-Scale Performing Arts project webpage with these recommendations, supporting materials, and project timeline. Community members can learn more and follow future updates on our website.

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Arts & Culture is one of several bureaus and programs in the Community and Economic Development service area. This service area creates and delivers efficient, transparent, and equitable solutions for a resilient built environment - as well as services, resources, and experiences for our community. This work is accomplished by aligning City programs focused on building prosperity for all Portlanders.