Portland: On Stage

BodyVox - What are the artistic limits of the human body? BodyVox is forever exploring the answer to that question. The work of this committed and inspired group of dance artists is characterized by a bold athleticism and inherent theatricality. Their movement surges from years of cross-training imbued with a fresh curiosity and a fascination about the endless possibilities of the human body in motion. But don't just take our word for it. BodyVox's admirers are not limited to the Pacific Northwest. The company has choreographed music videos for Sting, David Bowie and U2; created fashion spectacles for Japanese designer Issey Miyake; and co-choreographed and appeared in the 1998 Academy Awards show. www.bodyvox.com


Bodies in Motion - Portland always seems to be in motion. The Oregon Ballet Theatre (OBT) has developed a distinctly American repertoire and style, performing both the classics of ballet and contemporary and premiere works. OBT's state-of-the-art facility includes a glass-enclosed rehearsal studio that is open to public viewing. Portland is also home to several consistently innovative and evocative dance and movement companies, including BodyVox (see description above) and Do Jump! Extremely Physical Theater, which made its New York debut in 2000. White Bird brings world-renowned dance companies to Portland's stages and supports local dance organizations. www.obt.org; www.dojump.org; www.whitebird.org


PICA - Think art and commerce don't mix? Try telling that to the Portland Institute for Contemporary Art (PICA), Portland's leader in cutting-edge performances, experimental theater, dance and exhibits. Founded in 1995 as a "missing link" for the arts, PICA bridges the gaps between historically focused art institutions, commercial galleries and mainstream performance companies. In September 2003, PICA launched TBA: Time Based Art, an annual festival featuring dozens of the most sought-after and talked-about performers and art companies in the world. www.pica.org