A&E Tax Service, Inc. – founded by Michael Davidson in 1992 – serves this distinctive clientele. After many years in the Arts and Entertainment business himself, from promotion and production of shows, to stage management and stage hand work, he has a great deal of first-hand experience running a small business in the arts world and is intimately familiar with the complicated tax laws for these types of enterprises. Michael realized that many of his peers did not use these laws to their best advantage, nor was there much small business expertise available for the arts community.

The business has grown and evolved over the years to encompass people beyond the theatre where Michael had his roots. Many of our clients are visual, ceramic, or video artists as well as purveyors of intellectual property and other small businesses. Our clients participate in and appreciate Arts and Entertainment.

And more: Our staff brings broad personal and professional experience to the task. Our knowledge bases and personalities overlap and complement as well as contrast. We are as diverse as our client base. To learn more...

The A&E Team

• Michael Davidson
• Mary Franklin
• Emily Burnett
• Rebecca Noyes
• Patti Johnson

Michael: How many tax guys do you know who can work a follow spot? Michael spent many years in New York City working as a stage hand and as a lighting, scenery, and production designer. He was also instrumental in bringing the Big Top back to New York with the Big Apple Circus. In 1979, Michael moved to the Pacific Northwest to manage theatre for Seattle Community College before settling in Portland to produce shows through his own company, Michael Davidson Presents. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from Pomona College and studied Stagecraft in the Master’s program at Carnegie Tech in Pittsburgh.

Michael believes strongly in continuing education and is constantly enriching his broad knowledge base. He is a Licensed Tax Consultant and an Enrolled Agent, a Federal Tax Designation allowing him to represent clients with the Internal Revenue Service.

Mary: Every tax firm needs a multi-tasker. Mary Franklin joined A&E in September of 1998, having previously worked for 10 years with Charles Schwab & Company, Inc. Over the years Mary has acquired a broad knowledge of the Securities industry, investments and basics of financial planning. She is a Licensed Tax Consultant and Certified Financial Planner. She holds a Bachelors of Arts in History from the University of California, Berkeley. In her free time she volunteers with MLC PTSA, Boys Scouts of America and is an active participant in the lives of her two boys.

Emily: Our resident Scientist/Tax Preparer! Emily Burnett joined A&E in June of 2004 and is a licensed tax preparer. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular Biology and is a nationally registered EMT; she eventually hopes to pursue further education in medicine and public health (thereby saving the world). Emily has maintained an active side career in music, as a vocalist and accompanist, and is currently on the music staff at First Presbyterian Church in downtown Portland. She lives in North Portland with her husband, Daniel, a choral conductor and musician, and their lively husky/chow mix Rocco.

Rebecca: If it’s not organized, it will be! Rebecca Noyes joined A&E in July of 2007 and has quickly made herself part of the team by administering the front desk, answering the phones and taking over our payroll department. While pursuing her degree in Social Science and Business at Portland State University, she is also an avid photographer, rock climber and soccer mom.

Patti: Patti Johnson keeps us together and brings an added benefit – she is the only one with legible handwriting! She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Literature and has worked in promotion and public relations for most of her career. When she is not serving as our administrative lifeline she volunteers through Hospice Oregon and the Dove Lewis Animal Assisted Therapy Program.