Tether Credit: MYRRH LARSEN

Tether

Tether MYRRH LARSEN

Keeping up with the modern news cycle feels vital right now, as we grapple with the rapidly changing world around us. But news briefs and breakdowns don’t always lead to understanding. Often art plays an important role, pushing us out of our comfort zones and presenting perspectives we might not otherwise discover. That’s why Fertile Ground, the 11-day festival of new theater work (this year celebrating its 10th anniversary!), is something Portlanders should heed and treasure.

Robert Ham is the Mercury's former Copy Chief. He writes regularly about music, film, arts, sports, and tech. He lives semi-consciously in far SE Portland with his wife, child, and four ornery cats.