Amphitheater represents a benefit

To the editor:

I appreciated your editorial advocating greater use of the Hudson Family Park amphitheater.

As you observed, Arts Place presented two concerts there earlier this summer. We were able to offer these events free of charge thanks to a generous grant from The Portland Foundation, sponsorships from some very supportive local businesses and the City of Portland’s free rent policy.       

After the amphitheater was built, the City of Portland began a financial partnership between Arts Place and the city. Though it was a financial strain, Arts Place continued to present performances at the amphitheater for a time after the city ended its funding. In fact, our organization presented 16 concerts at Hudson Family Park Amphitheater between 2011 and 2015. Some were free of charge; some were not. Some were well attended; some were less so. 

The COVID-19 pandemic created a sense of isolation for many. Relaunching our performances program at the Amphitheater seemed a great way to help our community reconnect. I am confident that the board of Arts Place would be happy to consider continuing programming at the amphitheater in 2022 if there is sufficient public interest. The City of Portland’s renewed participation and financial involvement would obviously be welcome and helpful.   

Thanks for highlighting the potential benefit that the amphitheater represents for our community.  

Eric R. Rogers

Executive director

Arts Place