In 2006 The Arts Alliance of Downtown Olympia (“AADO”), collaborating with the City of Olympia, agreed upon establishing the Theatre District as a marketing and promotion tool of The Downtown Olympia Theatre District. While not a formal district of the city, the approval to use such a designation as a marketing and promotional tool is a major step in support of the four live performance theatres in downtown Olympia.

AADO will market and promote the district made up of the Capitol Theatre, Capital Playhouse, Harlequin Productions’ State Theatre and The Washington Center for the Performing Arts. These not-for-profit theatre companies have a demonstrated record of operations and their buildings hold historical significance.

The initiative came about quickly as the community discussed ideas to rejuvenate the downtown area, according to AADO president, Dan Weiss. Weiss says there are a number of solid reasons that marketing and promoting the theatre district will contribute to the vibrancy and well-being of downtown Olympia:

The theatres benefit by tying into collaborative marketing and branding efforts with such groups as the Olympia Downtown Association and the Olympia Visitor and Convention Bureau as they look for ways to promote the downtown area.

Downtown Olympia makes more visible an element of positive identity and civic pride – this is an historic theatre district – and thus enhances our community’s “soul”.

Restaurants, nightclubs and boutiques benefit from a vibrant theatre scene. The theatre district brings locals and visitors downtown after hours when the area would normally be dark, contributing to our city’s goal of an “18 hour city.”

This is an exciting idea that is right in line with the community and city council’s goal for downtown.” says Doug Mah, Olympia City Councilman and supporter of the initiative. Jeff Kingsbury, Vice President of AADO and artistic director of Capital Playhouse added “this can only serve to increase the dynamic qualities that already identify Olympia as a wonderful place to live, work and recreate.”

The theatre district is truly unique as it represents a community of interest – the live performing arts — as well as a community of place – a recognized core of venues…many with historical significance. A theatre district also recognizes the outstanding support of the community that has helped in creating such a treasure. AADO is excited to obtain this designation for marketing and promotional purposes.

The Arts Alliance of Downtown Olympia is a not-for-profit association that works on behalf of the performing arts venues to enhance the Olympia downtown area using the arts as a catalyst for growth, change and enrichment. To that end, the organization works at the local level to raise awareness about the performing art’s social, cultural and economic contributions through a collective voice.

Capitol Theater, State Theater, Capital Playhouse, Washington Center for the Performing Arts