Recently, the historic Kerry Hall on Capitol Hill in Seattle has been transformed into a vibrant hub for music, dance, and artistic expression. The Seattle Theatre Group (STG) has taken over this 104-year-old building to expand its community outreach programs and provide affordable spaces for artists. With plans to enhance at least ten existing initiatives, including dance camps and music workshops, STG aims to foster greater engagement with local cultural groups. The facility's diverse offerings, from Brazilian jazz rehearsals to Indian classical fusion performances, highlight the organization's commitment to preserving and promoting diverse art forms.

Breathing New Life into Historic Spaces

The acquisition of Kerry Hall by STG marks a significant milestone in preserving cultural landmarks within the city. This newly repurposed venue will serve as a vital resource for musicians, dancers, and performers, offering rehearsal rooms, recording studios, and performance spaces. By maintaining such venues, STG ensures that artists have access to essential facilities, which are often scarce in urban environments. The organization’s leadership emphasizes the importance of safeguarding these spaces to support creative development and community connections.

Josh LaBelle, Executive Director of STG, highlighted the critical role of affordable rehearsal spaces in nurturing talent. He expressed concern about the loss of cultural hubs in Seattle and underscored the need to protect places like Kerry Hall. LaBelle noted that these spaces not only provide practical benefits but also carry an intangible energy that inspires creativity. The organization views itself as a guardian of historic sites, ensuring they remain accessible to future generations of artists. Nate Dwyer, Chief Operating Officer, added that minimal renovations were required, as the building is already functional and ready to welcome new occupants.

Expanding Opportunities for Community Engagement

Kerry Hall will significantly enhance STG's ability to engage with the local community through various programs. One of the most notable improvements is the expansion of AileyCamp, a free initiative offering dance and percussion lessons to middle school students. Previously limited to 50 participants, the camp can now accommodate up to 100 students, doubling its impact. This increase in capacity aligns with STG's broader mission to promote personal development and artistic expression among youth.

Marisol Sanchez Best, director of education and community engagement at STG, emphasized the transformative potential of Kerry Hall. She described the experience of hearing artists perform in the building for the first time as akin to witnessing a newborn's first cry. The facility includes multiple dance studios, rehearsal rooms, and meeting spaces, all designed to facilitate collaboration and creativity. Sanchez Best envisions Kerry Hall becoming a central gathering place for diverse cultural groups, fostering deeper connections between artists and the community. The organization hopes this investment will lead to lasting changes in how Seattle supports its artistic community.