Seattle: On Stage

All Seattle's a Stage - It's been said that Seattle has more theatres per capita than any other city outside of New York, and it's certainly true that we have something for every taste. Major regional theatres, including Seattle Repertory Theatre, Intiman, ACT, The 5th Avenue, and Seattle Children's Theatre offer world-premieres, Broadway launches and award-winning interpretations of classics.  Seattle was the birthplace of the Broadway smash hit musicals Young Frankenstein, Hairspray, and most recently Shrek, on its way to Broadway in late fall 2008.  The stunningly renovated Paramount and historic Moore theatres host everything from top national dance and concert acts to touring Broadway and experimental theatre, while more than 90 smaller and fringe theatres present inspired work by emerging artists. Dress casually or to the nines--it's up to you.

McCaw Hall - We invite you to enjoy a performance in one of the "12 most spectacular arts destinations on the planet." (Conde Nast Traveler, UK edition.) Called "visually striking" and "acoustically excellent" by The New York Times, this beautifully renovated venue hosts a busy schedule of ballet, opera, concerts and films and is home to Seattle Opera, Pacific Northwest Ballet and SIFF Cinema. Before taking your seat in the dramatic performance hall, enjoy the luminous five story glass Grand Lobby, or the outdoor public plaza with its engaging public art and water features.

Seattle Symphony -  Seattle Symphony is the largest cultural institution in the Northwest and one of the oldest, dating from 1903. The Symphony presents more than 200 concerts annually from September to July in the acoustically splendid Benaroya Hall. The Symphony is recognized for its daring programming and tradition of performing work by 20th century composers. One of the most recorded symphonies in the world, SSO is represented on more than 80 CD recordings and has been recognized with 10 Grammy nominations.

Fantastic Festivals - Seattle hosts premier arts and cultural festivals year round, with the biggest of all being the grand celebration that is Bumbershoot, the Labor Day weekend spectacular that features more than 2500 visual and performing artists. Rolling Stone magazine named it one of the five best festivals in the U.S. (April 2004 issue). From international headliners to local talent, from poetry to acrobatics, Bumbershoot has it all. Other beloved Seattle area festivals include the Northwest Folklife Festival, the International Children's Festival, the Seattle International Film Festival, the Fremont Street Fair, the Bellevue Arts & Crafts Fair, SEAFAIR, and the Earshot Jazz Festival.