Viewers of The West Wing, Nurse Jackie, and Black-ish will almost immediately recognize Anna Deavere Smith from her prolific career as a television actor, but what Smith considers to truly be her life’s work takes place on the stage. Since the 1980s, Smith has periodically traveled around the United States, conducting interviews and weaving them into theatrical masterworks. Her now-20-strong series of plays – which she has dubbed On the Road: A Search for American Character – has borne witness to key moments in American history and introduced audiences to scores of individuals whose voices might otherwise get easily lost in the noise.

Smith’s most recent documentary theatre installment, based on more than 250 interviews from around the country, is a deep and compelling examination of the “school-to-prison pipeline” – the system wherein students are funneled directly into the criminal justice system through increasingly harsh educational and municipal practices and policies. Notes from the Field is not only a searing work of investigative journalism surrounding the makings of our educational systems, but a powerful, thrilling, and one-of-a-kind theatrical experience that Portland audiences are able to witness on stage at Portland Playhouse this February and March.

"It has been such a dynamic experience to be in the rehearsal room with all of these characters, witnessing their stories and the way that Anna Deavere Smith has woven them together," says director Jackie Davis. "I am moved every day by these individuals, and by the work [Ramona Lisa Alexander, the performer of all roles in the Portland Playhouse production] is doing to bring them to life. To be working on this play, right now, in our country in 2025, feels crucially important. We are in a moment that we need to meet with action - and this play, in addition to being just an incredible piece of theatre, is part of my action. I hope you attend as part of your action, and I hope this work gives you the power and the strength to help move these ideas of justice forward in our society."

Ramona Lisa Alexander is joined on stage by musician Kennedy Verrett, who underscores the action, as well as Portland Playhouse Artistic Director Brian Weaver as the On-Stage Helper, supporting Alexander in her journey through these stories. Davis’ direction is brought to life by Scenic Designer Sarah Kindler Crone, Costume Designer Wanda Walden, Lighting Designer Erica Maholmes, Projection Designer Sumi Wu, Sound Designer Saibi Khalsa, and Dramaturg Meagan Dilworth.

“I believe that art can inspire action. It can motivate us to reimagine a world where schools are more than sorting mechanisms for the haves and the have-nots, where they can function as centers for a culture of learning,” says Anna Deavere Smith. “It is a reimagining that requires courage, empathy, and action. And it has to start with listening.”

You are invited to listen and to be part of the action at Portland Playhouse this February 19th through March 30th. Don’t miss out! Visit our website for more information on tickets and showtimes.