Village Theatre | Issaquah

Village Theatre is a prominent and influential professional musical theatre company based primarily in Issaquah, Washington, with an additional location in Everett. Established in 1979, Village Theatre has grown into one of the largest and most respected regional theatres in the Pacific Northwest, known for its high production values, commitment to new musical theatre works, and comprehensive educational outreach programs.

Historical Background and Mission

Since its inception, Village Theatre has built a reputation as a vital incubator for new musicals and a major cultural institution in the Seattle metropolitan area. The theatre’s mission focuses on producing inspiring, innovative theatrical experiences while fostering the growth of emerging artists and engaging diverse communities through education and outreach.

A distinctive hallmark of Village Theatre is its commitment to nurturing new works through its Village Originals program, which develops and premieres original musicals. This program has contributed to the creation of over 180 new musicals since its launch, many of which have gained national recognition, making Village Theatre a national leader in musical theatre development.

Locations and Facilities

Village Theatre operates two main campuses:

Issaquah Campus: The original and flagship location featuring the Francis J. Gaudette Theatre, an intimate 500-seat venue that opened in 1994. This theatre offers advanced technical capabilities including modern lighting and sound systems, creating a professional and engaging environment for both audiences and performers. It is designed to provide close-up theatrical experiences and includes family-friendly amenities such as rooms for patrons with young children.

Hunt Family Theatre: Located at the Issaquah site, this smaller theatre (housed in a renovated historic building from 1913) serves as the hub for Village Theatre’s youth programs and developmental workshops, including the KIDSTAGE program and Village Originals workshops.

Everett Campus: Village Theatre also manages performances and education in Everett, where it operates at the Everett Performing Arts Center, serving as the resident company since 1998. Additionally, the Cope Gillette Theatre in Everett, opened in 2015, is dedicated to youth education classes and productions, particularly supporting the KIDSTAGE program.

Mainstage Productions and Programming

Village Theatre presents a diverse Mainstage season with a strong emphasis on musical theatre classics, contemporary works, and premieres of new musicals. Its productions attract a broad audience, from families and theatre aficionados to regional visitors.

Productions are staged in both Issaquah and Everett, offering multiple runs and increased access for different communities.

The theatre often features well-known Broadway titles, popular musicals, and compelling dramatic plays with musical elements.

Each season typically includes several world premieres or regional premieres of new works developed through the Village Originals program.

Village Originals Program

This program is Village Theatre’s flagship initiative for new musical theatre development. It includes:

Workshops and readings that allow composers, lyricists, and writers to refine their works.

Full-scale productions that introduce new musicals to audiences and industry professionals.

Support for emerging artists and writers to advance their careers in theatre.

Village Originals has been influential in launching musicals that have gone on to enjoy success nationally and internationally.

KIDSTAGE Education Program

Village Theatre operates a comprehensive youth education program known as KIDSTAGE, which provides theatrical training, performance opportunities, and camps for young people aged approximately 5 to 18.

KIDSTAGE offers classes in acting, singing, dance, and technical theatre.

Seasonal productions are staged at both Issaquah and Everett facilities, featuring adaptations of popular children’s musicals as well as original youth-focused works.

The program emphasizes personal growth, teamwork, and artistic development in a supportive environment.

Community Engagement and Accessibility

Village Theatre is deeply committed to making theatre accessible and welcoming to all members of the community. It provides:

Special programs for underserved populations.

Opportunities for volunteers and community involvement.

Family-friendly performances with accommodations such as sensory-friendly shows.

Outreach efforts including school partnerships and educational workshops.

Notable Recent and Upcoming Productions

Village Theatre’s seasons often feature a balance of classic favorites, contemporary hits, and newly developed musicals. Recent and upcoming productions have included titles such as:

Dial M for Murder - a suspenseful thriller blending drama with musical elements.

Jersey Boys - the Tony Award-winning musical telling the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons.

The Color Purple - a powerful, jazz and gospel-infused musical exploring themes of resilience and empowerment.

Visitor Information

The Issaquah campus is located at 303 Front Street North, Issaquah, WA, with box office and administrative offices available during regular hours.

The Everett campus is housed in the Everett Performing Arts Center at 2710 Wetmore Avenue, Everett, WA.

Tickets can be purchased online, by phone, or in person.

The theatre offers subscription packages and individual tickets, with special pricing for students, seniors, and groups.

Summary

Village Theatre is a cornerstone of the cultural landscape in the Puget Sound region, renowned for its dedication to musical theatre excellence, innovation in new works, and community-focused educational programs. Its blend of professional mainstage productions, development of new musicals, and robust youth theatre offerings make it a vital institution fostering artistic growth and providing enriching theatrical experiences for audiences of all ages.