Business Details
Your Premier Destination for Cultural Events & Venue Rentals in Pittsburgh
Founded over 25 years ago, Kelly Strayhorn Theater (KST) has established itself as a cultural cornerstone in Pittsburgh's East Liberty neighborhood. Named after legendary entertainers Gene Kelly and Billy Strayhorn, both Pittsburgh natives, the theater honors its founders' legacy by championing bold, innovative artistry with a global perspective. KST operates two venuesthe historic main theater and Alloy Studioshosting performances, rentals, and community programs that celebrate diversity in voice, thought, and expression. Our mission prioritizes inclusivity, centering Black, Indigenous, LGBTQ+, and queer voices while fostering creative experimentation and collective action. With a commitment to accessibility, we offer ADA-compliant facilities, assisted listening devices, and flexible ticket pricing through our Pay What Moves You initiative.Our team of seasoned professionals supports over 200 artists annually, providing equitable rehearsal spaces and rental opportunities that drive regional cultural and economic growth. Through initiatives like the Owning Our Future symposium, KST leads national conversations on BIPOC institutional ownership in the arts. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with Platinum Transparency recognition from GuideStar, we maintain rigorous accountability standards while delivering 3,000+ hours of annual programming that engages 20,000+ attendees nationwide.
Services
Event Venue Rentals
Performing Arts Programs
Dance Classes
Music Instruction
Community Workshops
Symposium Hosting
Art Exhibitions
Corporate Events
Cultural Programming
Artist Residencies
Highlights and features
- 25+ years cultivating Pittsburgh's cultural landscape with two dedicated venues
- Hosts nationally recognized symposiums on BIPOC arts institutional ownership
- Offers ADA-compliant facilities with assisted listening and accessible seating
- Pioneered Pay What Moves You pricing model supporting equitable access
- Provides 3,000+ annual hours of rehearsal and performance space for local artists
Associations and certifications
- GuideStar Platinum Transparency
Services
Event Venue Rentals
Kelly Strayhorn Theater offers premier event spaces in Pittsburgh's East Liberty district. Our 347-seat proscenium theater and 70-capacity black box studio accommodate performances, film screenings, and private events. Both venues feature professional lighting, audio systems, and projection equipment with technical support staff available.
Performing Arts Programs
We produce and present multidisciplinary performing arts experiences including dance, music, and theater. Programming emphasizes Black and queer narratives through residencies, commissions, and partnerships with emerging and established artists. All performances use our Pay What Moves You pricing model.
Dance Classes
West African dance instruction available for all skill levels with live drumming accompaniment. Classes include Company Classes for advanced dancers focusing on traditional techniques and Community Classes designed for beginners and fitness enthusiasts in intergenerational settings.
Music Instruction
Balafon music classes teach West African percussion instruments in intergenerational settings. Students learn djembe, doundouns, and balafon under culture bearers who integrate technical training with historical and cultural context about these instruments' ceremonial roles.
Symposium & Workshops
Annual symposiums like Owning Our Future explore critical arts sector issues with national leaders. Workshops cover topics from financial innovation to operational practices in BIPOC-owned cultural spaces. Events combine keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive programming.
People
Joseph Hall
Co-Executive Director
With over 15 years in arts administration, Joseph Hall co-leads KST's strategic vision. He specializes in curating socially impactful performances and developing equitable artist support programs that align with our mission of Black and queer liberation.
Melike Konur
Director of Advancement
Melike Konur oversees KST's fundraising and donor relations. She brings expertise in nonprofit development and has secured millions in grants to support our community programming and venue operations.
Ben Pryor
Programming Director
Ben Pryor curates KST's multidisciplinary arts programming. His work focuses on presenting innovative performances that challenge conventions while maintaining accessibility for diverse Pittsburgh audiences.
Sarah Gilmer
Programming Manager
Sarah Gilmer manages artist residencies and community programs. She has over a decade of experience connecting local creators with resources to develop groundbreaking new works presented at KST venues.
Piper Clement
Co-Production Manager
Piper Clement oversees venue operations and technical production. With expertise in stage management and event logistics, they ensure seamless execution of all performances and rental events at KST's two locations.
Questions
What is Pay What Moves You pricing?
Our flexible ticket pricing model lets patrons choose what they pay. Higher tiers subsidize lower-cost options, ensuring equitable access to arts experiences while fairly compensating artists.
Can I rent KST's venues for private events?
Yes! Our 347-seat theater and 70-capacity Alloy Studios host weddings, corporate events, and performances. Both spaces include professional AV equipment and technical support staff.
Do you offer dance classes for beginners?
Yes, our Community Dance Classes require no experience. Instructors teach West African techniques in welcoming environments with live drumming accompaniment for all fitness levels.
How accessible is Kelly Strayhorn Theater?
We're fully ADA-compliant with accessible seating, assisted listening devices, and wheelchair-accessible restrooms. ASL interpretation available for major events with advance notice.
What community programs do you provide?
We offer free artist residencies, youth mentorship programs like theatriQ for LGBTQ+ youth, and workshops covering dance, music, and theater production skills.
How does KST support BIPOC artists?
Through our Mutual Aid Residency, Freshworks program, and Owning Our Future symposium, we provide funding, rehearsal space, and professional development specifically for Black and queer creators.
Videos
Reviews (5)
Dan Coleman
Nov 02, 2021
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I remember the KELLY STRAYHORN THEATER as a Movie Theater called the REGENT THEATER. They used to show Double Features of HORROR, SCI-FI, DISNEY, WESTERNS & other Selected Movies. I remember seeing Classic Hammer Films, American International Pictures, Abbott & Costello Matinees & 3 Stooges Movies. It was sad that the REGENT THEATER Closed, But I'm glad that GENE KELLY was Honored w/ a Theater in His name.
Daddy Bj
Aug 31, 2021
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Was there for an event. The theater was clean. However...many areas had no air conditioning which made it somewhat uncomfortable. I dressed business casual. I felt for those in formal wear.
Ben G.
Apr 26, 2020
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Not so much a performing arts center as a social-services agency in which the arts are but a vehicle. No.
Look Miss Aj
Oct 16, 2019
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This place is wholesome! As someone who has worked with some of the staff here, i appreciate the professionalism and consistency they put in their projects. The space has a very artsy aesthetic to it that i also love! And the events that are featured here are simply brilliant!
Ern W. Giles
Feb 06, 2019
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Kids from Propel Braddock Hills Elementary did a great job in "Shrek"! Especially the young lady Trinity G....Dad Loves You!
