OUR HISTORY
Hand2Mouth (H2M) is a theatre ensemble committed to creating original work.
Driven by connection and joy, we use evolving methods to create original performance events that are bold and accessible. Described by The Seattle Times as having “the kind of promise, fearlessness and energy that the American theater needs, and should encourage,” Hand2Mouth has created over 20 productions and been presented at colleges, theaters, schools, prisons, and performance festivals internationally and nationally.
H2M creates powerful plays whose universal themes create opportunity for dialogue and exchange with strong impact. H2M reaches non-traditional theatre audiences, often by touring to communities where they live and work. Engagement is at the core of our work. We seek connections with those whose stories are under-told. We use our unique community-interview process to best reflect contemporary life and society through the experiences of current and past citizens.
H2M’s is Portland's longest running theatre ensemble, whose work has been recognized with support from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Oregon Arts Commission, Rockefeller MAP Fund, and many other funders. H2M is one of only 50 or so Portland arts organizations who receive General Operating funding from the Regional Arts and Culture Council.
In 2017 we established Student Voices, theatre education for underserved youth at multiple Portland SUN (Schools Uniting Neighborhoods) sites. In workshops, youth are able to collaborate, under professional artistic guidance, and express their own experiences through theatre.
From 2012-2020 H2M operated Shout House, a multi-use affordable and accessible community events space in the Central Eastside Industrial District.