With an updated seating chart to accommodate physical distancing and new protocols for keeping safety a priority, the Washington Center for the Performing Arts has announced fall jazz and comedy shows that will be presented on the mainstage Theater. Usually at this time of year the Center would be announcing the 20/21 season, with touring artists booked well in advanced and shows lined up from October through June. This season however is remarkably different, as it is still unclear when performance venues might be able to open their doors. With high hopes of bringing live entertainment back to the heart of downtown Olympia, the Washington Center is announcing shows in phases, starting with the fall.
“It takes more than a global pandemic to take the fun out of the Washington Center,” said Executive Director Jill Barnes, “We are kicking off the return of live entertainment to our stage with comedy!”
Tickets can now be purchased for the following newly announced shows:
BLACK BOX JAZZ: KAREEM KANDI Friday, November 6, 2020 | 8:00 PM
BEST OF COMEDY UNDERGROUND Saturday, November 7, 2020 |7:30 PM
SEATTLE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY COMPETITION Thursday, November 19, 2020 |7:30 PM
SILENT MOVIE SERIES: HAROLD LLOYD COMEDY DOUBLE FEATURE Friday, February 26, 2021 | 7:00 PM
Events from the 19/20 season that have been rescheduled are on sale now and listed below:
“PERK UP, PIANIST!” Saturday, May 8, 2021 | 7:30 PM
THE CENTER SALON Saturday, May 22, 2021 | 7:30 PM
THE TEMPTATIONS Thursday, June 10, 2021 | 7:30 PM
BOOGIE FROM THE BAYOU Friday, August 6, 2021 | 7:30 PM
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE: PINK BOOTS AND A MACHETE with MIREYA MAYOR Thursday, September 16 2021 | 7:30 PM
The Governor must approve the Center’s safe reopening plan and postponement or cancellation of a show will be confirmed within one month before the show date. A new Patron Guarantee has been issued by the Washington Center stating that if a show is rescheduled, tickets will automatically be transferred to the new date. If a patron can’t attend, the Box Office will assist with flexible options. If a show is cancelled altogether, a full ticket refund will be offered (minus ticket fees).
Tickets can be purchased in bundles of two, three, or four per purchase to accommodate six feet of distance between parties. Tickets must be sold in bundles (mainly consisting of four), with a total capacity of 257 in the theater. “The alternative to selling minimum ticket bundles is not doing the event at all. The concept has been well received as fans of live performing arts are just excited to have a show to look forward to,” said Barnes.
The Washington Center is very grateful for the on-going support from the community. It has been a very challenging time for many and arts professionals have been hit hard as live entertainment has come to a halt.
“It is exciting to think about the future when we can turn our lights back on and hear the buzz of enthusiastic patrons in our lobby. Our community has been right here with us through this dark period and we truly love and miss everyone” – Jill Barnes.
The Box Office staff is working on reduced hours but can be reached by phone at (360)753-8586 or email boxoffice@washingtoncenter.org. They will return messages as quickly as possible! Tickets are available for purchase online 24/7.