Portland Actors Conservatory's THE GLASS MENAGERIE Opens Tonight

Brenda Hubbard directs Tennessee Williams' great
American play, The Glass Menagerie, at Portland Actors Conservatory opening on Valentine's Day.

"It is befitting that this iconic play opens on a day that we celebrate love and relationships," said Hubbard. "Williams lived in a time when he wasn't allowed to follow his heart or sexual tendencies. Instead, he was caught between family responsibilities and his need to identify as a loving, sexual human being."

As a professor at Central Washington University, Hubbard teaches a class addressing human sexuality and staging genders in theatrical productions. She was able to research Williams through his writings and interviews while measuring his responses to the culture of sexuality during his lifetime.

"The Conservatory has allowed me the freedom to shed a new light on Williams' semi- autobiographical play. I am excited to present a glimpse into his lifelong struggle through this reflective, memory based portrayal," said Hubbard.

For the first time ever, award winning actress and Producing Artistic Director Beth Harper will take the stage alongside Conservatory's second year students. The Glass Menagerie will also feature award winning actor, director, scenic designer and fine artist Tim Stapleton.

"I was 16 when I first read this play and I knew then that I was destined to be part of this story," said Harper. "I never expected I would take on this role alongside the students I mentored. But together we [myself, Tim and the students] will take risk, commit to the playwright, and find the truth."

Inspired by Hubbard's introspective approach to The Glass Menagerie, Stapleton will showcase nine of his paintings created from personal memories. Stapleton paints each canvas as expertly as he graces the stage. Harper and Stapleton collaborated on the southern experience through a gallery showing in conjunction with Holy Ghost in 2012. The Conservatory will host a gallery presentation of his paintings on Wednesday, February 19 from 7:00-9:00pm, or by appointment.

The Glass Menagerie runs now through March 2, Thursday through Saturday evenings at 7:30 and Sundays at 2:00pm. Opening night tonight, February 14 includes a reception following the performance at Portland Actors Conservatory's Firehouse Theatre, located at 1436 SW Montgomery St., Portland, Ore., 97201. Tickets are available online at www.actorsconservatory.com or by calling (503) 274-1717. Ticket prices range from $5-$25. Student, senior and group discounts are available.

A special VIP performance of The Glass Menagerie will take place on February 21 at 6:30pm. VIP ticket holders will be treated to a preshow reception followed by a post show q&a session with the actors and director, and an opportunity to win a getaway weekend. VIP tickets are $100 each and only 50 tickets will be sold.

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