City’s market feasibility study supports new Performing Arts + Culture Center

A market feasibility study commissioned by the City of Portland recommends developing the Performing Arts + Culture Center on Portland State University's campus as Portland's new Broadway-capable venue, serving as a city's next large-scale venue while also providing an accessible home to educational activities, resident companies and non-profit organizations.

The findings point to the Center as uniquely positioned to meet regional demand while strengthening Portland's broader arts ecosystem and helping anchor the city's next chapter of cultural and economic vitality.

"We're excited to be able to share results of the market feasibility study with community members. We know Portlanders care deeply about the future of performing arts, and the entire arts and culture ecosystem, in our city and region," said Mayor Keith Wilson in a statement. "The completion of this study is an important piece of a much larger body of work that will help us revitalize downtown and amplify Portland as a key destination for performing arts."

The study suggests that Portland has insufficient market demand to warrant two Broadway-capable venues. The study also notes that the construction of the Center allows for shows to continue uninterrupted, avoiding an extended closure of the Keller that would harm local arts organizations and prevent touring Broadway shows from stopping in Portland for many years.

"Portland's renewed spirit will be sparked in the special places people gather to share meaningful educational and cultural experiences," said Portland State University President Ann Cudd. "The city's market study affirms the Performing Arts + Culture Center is an incredible opportunity to fuel Portland's future."

In June, PSU secured state bond funding for the PSU-owned portions of the Center, which will include educational facilities, a community theater, parking and rehearsal spaces. That funding is paired with $7.6 million from Prosper Portland and $12.5 million in philanthropic pledges, reflecting strong momentum and support for the center and the possibilities it holds for Oregon's arts and economy leadership.

"The city's study underscores that the Performing Arts + Culture Center offers what Portland needs now and for the future: a world-class venue that supports tomorrow's Broadway productions while also serving local artists, students and audiences," said PSU Foundation President Sarah Schwarz. "It positions downtown for year-round cultural activity and reinforces Portland's role as a regional and national arts destination. We are excited about the next steps and ongoing collaboration."

With an opening planned in 2030, the Performing Arts + Culture Center will be a multi-faceted arts and culture complex designed to support productions at every scale - from major touring shows to university and community performances - while serving as a cultural anchor for Portland. The Center is expected to generate sustained economic activity, create jobs and not only ensure continuity for Broadway and large-scale performances but also generate increased Broadway demand, with the Keller continuing to play an important role in downtown Portland's revitalization.

The market feasibility study will inform the city's ongoing process to plan for a modern home for performing arts in Portland.