Supporters came through after Portland Center Stage announced an emergency $2.5 million fundraising drive to save its upcoming schedule.Oregonian file photo Amy Wang/Staff

When describing the financial circumstances Portland area theater companies are facing this season, we’re past the term “challenging.” Fall 2025 is looking brutal. Several companies in the Portland area are still finding their footing after National Endowment for the Arts grants were slashed in May — and arts organizations fear more cuts may be coming when Congress re-convenes Sept. 20.

And then there’s LTC: Long Theater COVID. That is, audiences not returning to pre-pandemic attendance levels.

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