Hand2Mouth, an interactive Portland theatre company, will present two free performances of “PEP TALK” Friday, April 3, at 7 and 9 p.m. in Marshall Theatre in Ford Hall at Linfield College.
“PEP TALK” is an interactive theatrical celebration of coaches, teams and everyday heroes. In the performance, four coaches take the stage to explore the power of the pep talk and demonstrate that every person has the ability to give and receive words of encouragement. Combining the boldness of Muhammad Ali, the seriousness of Vince Lombardi and the humor of The Bad News Bears, “PEP TALK” creates an art and sport atmosphere. The performance is meant to inspire the audience to reflect on the past, cheer on the present and step from passive observers to active participants.
According to an Oregonian review, “‘PEP TALK’ definitely feels good. Not just because it’s fun and entertaining, but because it reminds us that we have what it takes to go out there and make our own destinies – to grab life by the horns and do what we want, to be who we want.”
“PEP TALK” is performed by longtime Hand2Mouth company members Julie Hammond, Liz Hayden, Erin Leddy and Maesie Speer, under the direction of artistic director Jonathan Walters. The show is currently touring Oregon schools, community organizations, theatres and colleges, and is customized for each audience.
Hand2Mouth Theatre is Portland’s longest running contemporary theatre ensemble, consistently creating innovative new works at home and touring performances to rural communities throughout the Northwest, leading arts centers and to major cities across the U.S. and internationally. Founded by Walters in 2000, the company has created 18 original performances.
During the one-day residency at Linfield, the company will conduct a workshop with students in the Acting Styles course.
The Linfield performances are sponsored by the Lacroute Arts Series at Linfield, the Department of Theatre and Communication Arts, and the Department of Health, Human Performance and Athletics.
The performances are free, seating is limited and is first-come, first-served. The doors will open 30 minutes before show time. For more information, call 503-883-2802. The Marshall Theatre is fully accessible.
