About the Cuomo Theatre Fund
The Cuomo Theatre Fund was formed in September 2021 to ensure that Philip Cuomo’s life work would continue. Its stated mission is to support the arts in Portland. Its first project, which was begun by Philip, was to purchase the CoHo Theatre building, in order that it remain a theatre.
The Cuomo Theatre Fund is committed to preserving the legacy of Philip Cuomo, theatre artist and arts administrator. Philip was a passionate advocate for new work development and community engagement. As Producing Artistic Director of CoHo Productions, he had overseen the development and production of dozens of new plays, as well as programs that supported emerging artists and engaged with Portland’s diverse communities.
MICHELE CUOMO
Founder, Cuomo Theatre Fund
The Cuomo Theatre Collaborative is three small non-profit theatre companies with strong ties to Philip Cuomo, and dependence on the NW Raleigh Building for their work—Third Rail Repertory Theatre, PETE (Portland Experimental Theatre Ensemble), and CoHo Productions. In 2022 these companies formed the Cuomo Theatre Collaborative (CTC), a consortium dedicated to working with the Cuomo Theatre Fund to accomplish together what none of us could do alone: complete the purchase and guide the NW Raleigh Building’s expansion into a vibrant arts incubator.
“The establishment of the CTC—and its eventual ownership of the property in Northwest—secures the future of the three theaters and predicts a wealth of new opportunities for Portland artists. Notably, the CTC cements the legacy of Philip Cuomo, CoHo’s longtime leader and a beloved actor, director and mentor to countless Portland theater artists”
About the Cuomo Theatre Collaborative
“The Cuomo Theatre Collaborative will serve as a new building for small to midsize theatres such as Third Rail and PETE, and will serve as a space to nurture artists and the performing arts. The Cuomo Theatre Collaborative will operate under a model of collective leadership, artist empowerment, and affordable access.”
“Common cause is clear in the need that all three companies have for work space and the community-minded ethos they share... Here’s hoping the Collaborative can fully honor Cuomo’s invaluable legacy by giving theater artists and appreciators a broader path to the future.”
“Transforming the theater into a full performing arts center is an impressive and exciting feat, said Gary Cole, one of CoHo Productions’ two co-founders ... this mission is especially relevant now as beloved venues across Portland continue to close or be repurposed”
Make a donation.
Philip worked for years to secure the building to preserve it as a theatrical space and a home for an artistic community. As members of his family, the Cuomo Theatre Fund needs your help to keep Philip’s legacy alive. Support us through the acquisition and renovation of the building to provide the community with an enduring theatrical home.
