Business Details
41 Years
experience
Experience Live Performing Arts in Olympia, WA
The Washington Center for the Performing Arts has been South Puget Sound's premier performing arts facility since 1985. Our mission focuses on inspiring audiences and artists through live performances while enriching community vibrancy. We deliver diverse, high-quality programming, support regional artistic groups, and promote performing arts education for all ages. Our facility maintains modern standards for audience and performer comfort while operating with fiscal responsibility. As a public/private partnership with the City of Olympia, we foster economic vitality through cultural programming.Our history traces back to the 1924 Liberty Theater, evolving through renovations to become Washington State's capital region cultural hub. We host 18 local Artistic Partners and present national/international touring artists across multiple genres. Our community programs include educational outreach, gallery exhibitions, and volunteer opportunities that strengthen regional arts engagement.
Services
Live Performances
Facility Rentals
Educational Programs
Gallery Exhibits
Volunteer Opportunities
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- Established in 1985 as Washington State's capital region cultural landmark
- Presents diverse programming from local and international artists
- Maintains public/private partnership with City of Olympia for community access
- Offers educational outreach programs for all age groups
- Hosts 18 resident Artistic Partner organizations
Services
Live Performances
Presenting diverse live performances from national touring artists and local groups across music, theater, and dance genres. Our venue hosts 18 resident Artistic Partners while maintaining modern technical capabilities. Programs include comedy competitions, symphony performances, and seasonal theatrical productions that engage regional audiences.
Facility Rentals
Offering state-of-the-art performance space rentals with seating for 720 patrons. Our facility includes backstage production areas, dressing rooms, and technical support equipment. Ideal for theater productions, concerts, and special events with professional staff assistance available for technical and logistical needs.
Educational Programs
Providing arts education initiatives including the Anacker Scholarship for the Arts and school outreach programs. Our educational outreach connects students with professional artists through workshops and performance experiences. Programs emphasize accessibility and community engagement for diverse age groups.
Gallery Exhibits
Curated visual arts exhibitions across three floors featuring regional artists in rotating displays. Gallery spaces host receptions and special events while offering artwork sales with 25% proceeds supporting performing arts programs. Exhibits include contemporary works and historical retrospectives from established local artists.
Volunteer Opportunities
Engaging volunteers in event support, gallery assistance, and administrative roles to strengthen community involvement. Our volunteer program provides training and meaningful participation in cultural events while supporting operational needs. Opportunities include ushering, event coordination, and educational program support.
Questions
How do I purchase tickets for performances?
Tickets can be purchased through our website, by phone at (360) 753-8586, or at the box office during regular hours.
What types of events are available?
We host diverse performances including music concerts, theater productions, comedy shows, and symphony performances throughout the year.
Can I rent the facility for private events?
Yes, our venue is available for rental with professional support staff and technical equipment for special events.
Are volunteer opportunities available?
We offer volunteer positions in event support, gallery assistance, and administrative roles for community members.
What educational programs do you offer?
Our educational initiatives include the Anacker Scholarship, school outreach programs, and artist workshops for all ages.
Reviews (4)
Julie McQuerry
Jan 06, 2022
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We were attending a Sunday Is matney of The Nutcracker. It was beautiful; we had great seats. My only complaint was that the safety glass was filthy! It made it very difficult to see clearly. Grubby hand prints are bad anytime but during Covid it just screams we don't care enough to clean.
Judy Hall
Dec 15, 2021
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Great, unobtrusive Covid protocols. Wearing masks during the performance wasn't great, but the ability to sit in a theater and experience live music with other people more than offset the minor discomfort of the mask.
David Baum
Nov 21, 2021
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Great facility. Clean and well organized. Staff was very helpful. I will definitely attend more performances here.
Cynthia Wolfe
Nov 21, 2021
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Wonderful experience at the Symphony Nov 14th afternoon with Guest Conductor Roupen Shakarian ! The ticket process, seating, performance, (and quilt exhibit) were all very enjoyable!
