Milagro Announces New Original Work EL PAYASO

Amidst chaos, confusion and war, an American engineer worked to bring electricity to rural villages in Nicaragua. El Payaso invites the audience to learn the story of an incredible man and the extraordinary people with whom he unexpectedly connected. Our tale is told through the eyes of Elías, a Latino college student, traveling to Nicaragua thirty years later, to encounter the people who are still carrying on the work of the late Ben Linder. An engineer and a clown for a cause, Linder participated in rallies and health campaigns that brought vaccines to children. His memory lives on in the work of Clowns without Borders and various environmental groups that are collaborating to bring this story to life. With red noses and humor, the performers will share the value of "thinking globally, while acting locally."

In 1987 Ben Linder was killed by Contras in Nicaragua, during a war that was fueled by the Regan administration of the United States. For the 30th anniversary of Ben's passing, this play will share with a new generation, an inspirational story of one idealist who saw the potential of art and science to help save the world, one small village at a time.

El Payaso community partners include: Clowns without Borders, Verde, the Ben Linder Scholarship Fund, the Intertwine Alliance, and Friends of Trees.

El Payaso is presented as part of the 2017 Fertile Ground Festival, an 11-day arts festival showcasing new work from local Portland artists.

WHEN
January 12-21, 2017
Thursday - Saturday, 7:30 PM, Sunday at 2 PM
Thursday, January 12, 7:30 PM - Preview
Friday, January 13, 7:30 PM - Opening night reception catered by Mayahuel!
Sunday, January 15, 2 PM - Resource Fair bookends matinee!

WHERE
Milagro Theatre, 525 SE Stark Street, Portland, OR, 97214

ADMISSION
Adult tickets are $27 in Advance, $32 at the door.
Discount for students, seniors, veterans, groups 15+, and with the Oregon Trail card through the Arts for All program.
Senior tickets are $25 in Advance, $30 at the door.
Student/ Veteran tickets are $20 in Advance, $25 at the door.
Tickets available at www.milagro.org or 503-236-7253.

MORE INFORMATION
www.milagro.org or call 503-236-7253