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The City of Portland is interested in securing a new single operator that will assume venue management and operating responsibilities for all five theaters. Interested parties are invited to submit proposals by 3:00 p.m. PDT on October 14, 2026.
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The City seeks an experienced performing arts venue operator to manage and operate Portland'5 Centers for the Arts, consisting of five performing arts venues in downtown Portland.
Owned by the City of Portland, Portland'5 Centers for the Arts (Portland'5) has been managed and operated by Metro (regional government) since 1989. On June 30, 2027 Metro will conclude its management responsibilities for the venues.
The City is seeking a single operator that will establish a sustainable operating and financial model for all five theaters of Portland'5 Centers for the Arts, in alignment with the City's Core Values and goals. The Operator will be responsible for delivering a stabilized, net positive operating budget and diversifying revenue streams to support the long-term success of the performing arts centers.
The City values excellent staff management and a positive work culture and expects the operator to prioritize these standards throughout its management of Portland'5. The City also values labor peace.
The Portland'5 operator must ultimately balance the following priorities:
- Financial sustainability
- Audience accessibility and affordability
- Support for and/or partnership with local arts and culture organizations
- Employment opportunities for existing employees
- Balanced programming to manage commercial activity, community representation, and local partnerships
The City expects a smooth transition from Metro's current management to the new operator on July 1, 2027, and has a goal of minimizing disruption to venue users, presenters, staff, and the public.
A virtual pre-proposal meeting will be held on September 17, 2026, 10:00-11:00 a.m. Pacific Time via Zoom.
In addition, tours of the Portland'5 venues will be held on September 22, 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. PDT. Email your RSVP to Xylia Guzman Torres by 5 p.m. PST on September 21 for more information.
Learn more about the RFP and submit your proposal by 3 p.m. PDT on October 14, 2026, through the City of Portland's procurement portal.
*Due to certain system defaults, this solicitation may display as a Request for Information (RFI); however it is an RFP, as reflected in all the attached supporting documents.