About Seattle
Seattle is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the United States, home to a wide range of theater spaces and events. From intimate black box theaters to sprawling Broadway-style stages, Seattle is a great place to experience live theater at its best.
Theaters in Seattle range from the iconic big names which are mainstays in the city to more modern venues that offer an eclectic mix of classic and contemporary works. Many of these feature both traditional plays as well as original works by local writers and directors; there's even an annual Fringe Festival that showcases daring new pieces from around the country.
Every year, thousands flock to Seattle’s theaters to catch award-winning productions, dramas, and cutting-edge comedy. And once you've seen your fill of live performances, Seattle's movie theaters offer up an array of first-run films from Hollywood and beyond. With so many different types of theater experiences available, it’s no wonder why so many people call Seattle home.
Theater Options in Seattle
- Lighting
When it comes to lighting up a theater space, there are several options available. You could go for the standard setup with stage lights and house lights or opt for something more visually striking such as light curtains that can be modified in terms of color and shape to craft an alluring ambiance.
- Clothing Rentals
Theater space is your perfect opportunity to don a costume and feel as though you've been transported into the performance itself. Numerous companies offer rental costumes for any occasion, so finding one tailored specifically to your tale should be no sweat!
- Cleaning Services
As theaters get a lot of people visiting, it's essential to make sure that the space is kept clean and hygienic. Before you rent a theater space, ask about any cleaning services they may offer to ensure the comfort of your audience.
Theater Vendors in Seattle
- Red Light Vintage & Costume
Red Light Vintage & Costume is a must-visit destination in Seattle for vintage lovers of all kinds. From their selection of clothing, shoes, and accessories spanning the last 90 years to their commitment to supporting local musicians, artists, and organizers, Red Light stands out as a proud supporter of the city. Shopping at Red Light allows customers to find stylish pieces with unique stories at affordable prices.
- SPRUSE
SPRUSE stands out from other cleaning companies in their commitment to delivering the best possible service while treating their cleaners with respect. They are an industry leader, providing award-winning customer service and competitive rates. Moreover, they offer comprehensive training and development programs, helping their cleaners hone their skills and become more knowledgeable about the cleaning industry. SPRUSE is passionate about delivering excellent service without compromising on its devotion to the people who provide it—making them a reliable and ethical cleaning partner.
- R90 Lighting
R90 is a premiere lighting rental company in Seattle that offers lighting solutions for events, productions, and concerts. The team is composed of experienced professionals and uses the latest LED technology and dynamic design to produce showstopping events. They offer a variety of services, including production design, conceptual lighting design, event operation, intelligent light programming and operation, and lighting and video wall rental, among others.
Pros and Cons of Theater Spaces in Seattle
Theaters in Seattle offer a variety of experiences that are sure to create lasting memories. From traditional plays and musicals to avant-garde productions, Seattle's theater spaces provide something for everyone. Below is a list of some of the pros and cons of renting a theater in Seattle for an event or production:
Advantages
- There is an immense variety of theater spaces available to rent in Seattle, making it easy for producers and organizers to find something that suits their needs and budget. From large theater halls to independent-run theater spaces, the choices are numerous.
- Theater spaces offer an immersive experience unlike any other, immersing audiences in the stories being told on stage.
- You can find many reputable third-party vendors in Seattle who can assist you in your production, from stage lighting companies to costume rentals.
- Seattle is a city inclined to the arts, with residents who are always on the lookout for something new and exciting.
Disadvantages
- The majority of theaters are situated within downtown/urban areas, which can make parking difficult or expensive.
- Some theaters have seating arrangements that can be uncomfortable depending on one’s size or height.
- An outdoor theater may not be ideal in Seattle, especially between October and March. Compared with other major cities, Seattle receives a lot of rain.
Tips on How to Organize Theater Productions in Seattle
Seattle is a hotbed for theater. From the Hashtag and improv comedy clubs to the famed 5th Avenue Theater, there's no shortage of places to catch a show. But with so many theater spaces, it can be hard to keep track of them all. Here are some tips on how to organize a theater production in Seattle:
- Keep a running list of all the theater spaces in Seattle. This way, you'll always have a reference point when looking for a specific venue. If you're looking for a specific type of theater space (e.g., an intimate black box theater or a large proscenium stage), make sure to specify this in your search criteria. This will help you weed out any unsuitable options and zero in on your ideal venue.
- Once you've found a few potential theater spaces, schedule tours of each one. This will give you a chance to see the space in person and get a feel for its atmosphere and amenities. Don’t skip this part; you need to know if what you see in the pictures is true. Photos cannot fully capture what a space looks like in person.
- After touring each space, sit down and compare your options. Make sure to consider factors such as location, cost, and capacity when making your decision.
- Look for sponsors. If you’re on a budget, you may look for sponsors in Seattle who can shoulder some of the costs of your production in exchange for the promotion of their brand or something else.
- Hold auditions. Seattle is home to many aspiring actors and actresses, so you’ll find plenty of talent here. Depending on your time and budget, you may choose to hold the auditions in person or online (through submitted audition videos).
- Create a production timeline. This timeline should detail the schedules, responsibilities, and personnel involved in each task. Make sure to establish clear communication lines with all members of your production team so that everyone is on the same page during the process.
Famous Locations in Seattle
- Olympic Sculpture Park
The Olympic Sculpture Park is a nine-acre public park that opened in 2007 on the waterfront in Seattle, Washington. The park is home to a collection of large-scale sculptures by different artists, as well as a variety of plant life. With walking paths and vantage points, the park was designed to provide visitors with an immersive experience. The sculpture collection includes both indoor and outdoor pieces, and the park also hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy a picnic lunch amid the sculptures, take a yoga class overlooking the water, or simply stroll through the park and take in the art.
- Seattle Aquarium
The Seattle Aquarium has been a part of the city since 1977, providing individuals and families with quality educational experiences that can be enjoyed by all. It is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and stands as a member of The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The aquarium gives visitors access to the incredible diversity of aquatic life on display in the tanks, from sea otters to fish to octopuses. Seattle Aquarium is open every day but Christmas Day, with admission prices dependent on age. Discounts are available for seniors, students, and military personnel; alternatively, an annual membership which also offers numerous benefits can be purchased for family visits.
- Smith Tower
Built in 1914, Smith Tower stands tall and proud as an iconic symbol of Seattle. At almost 500 feet high, it was the tallest building west of the Mississippi River upon its completion and remained so until 1931 when the Los Angeles City Hall surpassed it. Now, Smith Tower is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Seattle, with visitors able to enjoy stunning views of downtown Seattle, Elliott Bay, and the Olympic Mountains. Aside from sightseeing opportunities, Smith Tower also houses a restaurant and small businesses. An elevator ride to the top of the tower can be taken for a small fee which further adds to its enduring appeal.