Trip Planner 2018-19 Trip Planner for Student Travel | Page 23

PORTLAND Student workshop at Portland Center Stage at The Armory Portland, known as the Rose City, lives up to its name thanks to its iconic June festival and its popular public gardens— more in a minute. But Oregon’s largest city also is home to a blossoming theater scene that is led by Portland Center Stage at The Armory. Located in the heart of the fashionable Pearl District, The Armory includes two theaters and was the first performing arts venue in the U.S. to receive a LEED Platinum rating—signifying its environmentally responsible design and functionality. Portland Center Stage, which typically offers 10 to 12 productions each season, has been ranked among the top 20 regional theater companies in the country. In addition to touring the facility and seeing a show when they visit, students can get a firsthand perspective on the world of theater through interactive programs. Workshops led by actors provide a more immersive experience and backstage interview sessions with performers are available following most matinees. According to Ashley Kingman, tourism manager for Travel Portland, another good stop for visiting students is the Portland Japanese Garden. “With the addition of the Cultural Village last year, the Portland Japanese Garden has gained more opportunity to welcome students into the garden’s classrooms for performances, demonstrations and lectures pertaining to Japanese culture,” she says. The expansion project added LEED-certified buildings and seven garden spaces, which enhance the types of programming that’s available in the new areas. “From the Japanese Garden, groups can easily visit the International Rose Test Gardens to view more than 10,000 rose bushes spanning over 650 varieties,” adds Kingman. “Building an afternoon around these attractions is a great way to showcase Portland’s natural beauty while still remaining in the city.” For more information, contact Kingman at ashley@ travelportland.com or go to travelportland.com. TOP EDUCATIONAL ATTRACTIONS Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education TOP RECREATIONAL ATTRACTIONS Oaks Amusement Park, Portland Saturday Market TOP LOCAL FESTIVALS Portland Rose Festival (June), Winter Light Festival (February) NTAonline.com 21