A Garden of Doors – Las Adelitas

PORTLAND, OR (March 14, 2025) – A Garden of Doors was a community-based arts initiative by Heidi Duckler Dance Northwest rooted at Las Adelitas in Portland. Designed to bring accessible arts programming to residents and the surrounding community, the project transforms repurposed doors into portals for storytelling, visual art, music, and movement—culminating in immersive, site-specific performances. Throughout the year, community members participated in a series of hands-on workshops led by professional teaching artists:

• Storytelling Workshops with Rachel Attias invited participants of all ages to explore personal narrative through creative writing, guided prompts, and group discussion. In a supportive and welcoming environment, residents developed and shared original stories shaped by their lived experiences, cultures, and memories. The series culminated in a free public showcase celebrating the power of personal voice and community connection.

• Mural Painting Workshops with Oliver Casillas engaged participants in visual storytelling through collaborative painting on repurposed doors. These vibrant works became part of the evolving scenic design for a later dance performance in the garden at Las Adelitas. A public showcase highlighted the completed doors with music and refreshments, celebrating creativity and collective expression.

• Music Workshops with Balamurali Balu offered a beginner-friendly introduction to songwriting and audio production. Participants transformed lyrics and melodies into full songs, recorded live instruments and vocals, and learned the tools of professional music production—many creating their first original track. The series concluded with a celebratory jam session of newly created music.

• Movement Workshops with Tony Carnell fused jazz and industry-style choreography, building confidence, stage presence, and improvisational skill. Open to teens and adults, the workshops emphasized artistry, body awareness, and connection to audience. Creative material generated throughout the series informed a final performance on February 1, 2026.

Together, these workshops formed the foundation of A Garden of Doors—a multidisciplinary project that nurtures local talent, celebrates diverse stories, and strengthens community through accessible arts experiences. By inviting participants to step through creative “doors” of writing, painting, music, and dance, the project honors the many identities and narratives that shape the Las Adelitas community.

––

Creative Direction by
Heidi Duckler

Photography & Design by
Armando Tarula

Videography by
Anna Rose

Storytelling Workshops
Rachel Attias

Music Workshops
Balamurali Balu

Painting Workshops
Oliver Casillas

Movement Workshops
Tony Carnell