17-18 Washington Center Season Brochure

Photos—National Geographic: Gina Poole; Shamekia Copeland: Joseph A. Rosen

BUILD EXTRAORDINARY MEMORIES

BUILD EXTRAORDINARY MEMORIES

Gaelic Storm

A Night with Janis Joplin

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Thursday, OCT 5, 7:30 pm

Piaf! The Show

Silent Movie Series

The Phantom of the Opera

Thursday, OCT 12, 7:30 pm

Thursday, OCT 19, 7:30 pm page 5

Sunday, OCT 15, 2:00 pm

Columbia Pictures

Photo: David Guttenfelder

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National Geographic Live

Sing-a-long Annie

A Kenny G Christmas

Friday, NOV 17, 7:30 pm

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page 9

Rosanne Cash with John Leventhal

Disenchanted!

National Geographic Live

Brian Reed* page 13

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page 12

Friday, FEB 9, 7:30 pm

Sunday, NOV 26, 5:00 pm

The Hilarious Hit Musical!

Friday, FEB 2, 7:30 pm

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Bob Poole page 12

Saturday, FEB 10, 7:30 pm

Photo: Julie Lemberger

Monday, Jan 29, 7:30 pm

Ladysmith Black Mambazo Wednesday, JAN 17, 7:30 pm

Photo: Gina Poole

Photo: Clay Patrick McBride

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Wednesday, NOV 29, 7:30 pm

Photo: Sandy Honig

David Guttenfelder

Stephen Petronio Company

Thursday, MAR 29, 7:30 pm

The Center Salon

Silent Movie Series

Las Cafeteras

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Sunday, APR 15, 2:00 pm

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Friday, APR 13, 7:30 pm

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*Special engagement. Not included in subscription packages.

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Charlie Chaplin Shorts page 20

Thursday, APR 26, 7:30 pm

Black Box Jazz

Dala

Friday, OCT 27, 8:00 pm

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Steve Luceno

Saturday, OCT 28, 7:30 pm

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Black Box Jazz

Silent Movie Series

Dmitri Matheny

Buster Keaton in Steamboat Bill Jr.

Friday, JAN 19, 8:00 pm

Sunday, JAN 21, 2:00 pm

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Matt Andersen & Shemekia Copeland

Seattle International Comedy Competition

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International Guitar Night

Blonde Poison

Tuesday, JAN 23, 7:30 pm

Thursday, JAN 25, 7:30 pm Friday, JAN 26, 7:30 pm

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Wednesday, NOV 1, 7:30 pm

Photo: Elvis Suarez

God is a Scottish Drag Queen

Seattle Men’s Chorus & Seattle Women’s Chorus

Black Box Jazz

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Joe Mailhot

Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Bluegrass Band

Comedy in the Box

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Wednesday, FEB 21, 7:30 pm page 14

Black Box Jazz Friday, MAY 11, 8:00 pm

Thursday, MAR 8, 7:30 pm

Friday, MAY 18, 7:30 pm

Saturday, MAR 17, 7:30 pm

JAN 18, FEB 22, MAR 22, APR 12, MAY 10, JUN 14 Thursdays at 7:30 pm page 17

Climate Change

Friday, MAR 23, 8:00 pm

IMAGINE

Tiempo Libre

Thursday, NOV 16, 7:30 pm

Photos: Conrado Tapado & John Pai

page 20

Art: Isaac Novak

Photo: Sean Sisk & Marilyn Stringer

SEASON AT A GLANCE

Visit us online for video previews of these events at washingtoncenter.org The Washington Center 2017/18 Season | 2

A NOTE FROM JILL This season we invite you to build extraordinary memories. Our diverse season of music, dance, theater, and film showcase exceptional artistry and stories of humanity through the lens of performing arts. I cannot wait for you to enjoy the performances in our 2017-2018 season!

What’s at the top of my list of unmissable shows? The energetic music of Gaelic Storm and Las Cafeteras are not to be missed, and the nostalgic music of Janis Joplin and Edith Piaf will leave you star-struck and eager for more.

Tickets are sure to go fast for headliners like Kenny G and Rosanne Cash, and the world renowned contemporary dance of Stephen Petronio Company is a must see. With our educational National Geographic speakers, annual sing-a-long, Silent Movies, Comedy shows and more, there’s an event for everybody at The Washington Center.

So pull up a chair, take some time to peruse these pages, and get excited about what is in store for you this season.

I promise these events will enrich your life as new experiences and memories are made.

You’re Invited Saturday, September 23, 2017 Doors open at 5:30 pm

Join us for an elegant evening to support The Center’s mission to enhance access to the arts and culture in our community.

The evening will include cocktail hour, full dinner, Excellence in the Arts awards ceremony, live auction, and engaging vignette entertainment.

Tickets on sale now through the box office at (360) 753-8586 or online at washingtoncenter.org For questions and sponsorship information, contact (360) 753-8585 x103 or development@washingtoncenter.org.

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EXPERIENCE

GAELIC STORM THURSDAY, OCT 5, 7:30 pm

After nearly two decades and more than 3,000 live shows, Gaelic Storm— the chart-topping, multi-national Celtic band—is looking sharper than ever with their latest release. The new album mixes traditional Irish music with modern influences, creating a sound that’s as wide-ranging as the band’s own audience.

Ticket price includes a glass of champagne or sparkling cider to toast the opening of our incredible season!

A: $52, B: $37, C: $26 SPONSORED BY

The Washington Center 2017/18 Season | 4

THURSDAY, OCT 12, 7:30 pm

A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN

THURSDAY, OCT 19, 7:30 pm

PIAF! THE SHOW

A: $72, B: $62 C: $45

A: $52, B: $42, C: $27

Like a comet that burns far too brightly to last, Janis Joplin exploded onto the music scene in 1967 and, almost overnight, became the queen of rock ’n’ roll. The unmistakable voice, filled with raw emotion and tinged with Southern Comfort, made her a must-see headliner from Monterey to Woodstock.

Inspired by the award-winning movie La Vie En Rose, the show narrates the ragsto-riches story of the Parisian singer’s career through Edith Piaf’s unforgettable songs, complemented by a visual tapestry of previously unreleased photographs and images.

Fueled by such unforgettable songs as “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Piece of My Heart,” and “Mercedes Benz,” A Night with Janis Joplin is a musical journey celebrating Janis and her biggest musical influences—icons like Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Odetta, Nina Simone and Bessie Smith, who inspired one of rock ’n’ roll’s greatest legends.

SPONSORED BY

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Star Anne Carrere has a captivating, powerful voice, and a natural charisma.

She is an artist who invents and reinvents her art in a unique and rich way each time she performs, making every show a singular experience.

REMEMBER SPONSORED BY

DALA SATURDAY, OCT 28, 7:30 pm

CONNECT Drawing upon influences like The Beatles, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young and Bob Dylan, Dala write songs that are both catchy and insightful. Amanda Walther’s ethereal soprano voice blends seamlessly with Sheila Carabine’s velvety alto, creating the lush harmonies that have become their trademark.

The sheer joy with which they perform is infectious, turning first-time listeners into instant fans. The duo delivers beautiful flights of melody and harmony, and embrace every facet of their extraordinary musical blend.

Dala are equally entertaining between songs, telling funny and down to earth stories that make every show unique.

A: $42, B: $32, C: $22 SPONSORED BY

The Washington Center 2017/18 Season | 6

Art: Isaac Novak

Photo: Sean Sisk & Marilyn Stringer

WEDNESDAY, NOV 1, 7:30 pm

MATT ANDERSEN & SHEMEKIA COPELAND A: $57, B: $47, C: $32 Two Acts, One Great Night of Blues!

A powerhouse performer with a giant soul-filled voice and commanding stage presence, Matt Andersen has built a formidable following the old fashioned way—touring worldwide and letting the converted audiences and devotees spread his reputation through word of mouth.

Whether she’s belting out raucous blues, blistering soul, gospel-fueled R&B, or country-tinged ballads, Shemekia Copeland sounds like no one else. With a voice that is alternately sultry, assertive, and roaring, her wide-open vision of blues, roots, and soul music showcases her evolution as a passionate artist.

SPONSORED BY

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THURSDAY, NOV 16, 7:30 pm

SEATTLE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY COMPETITION A: $30 Olympia is proud to host a semi-final round of the “everywhere but Seattle” part of the competition. Up to ten comedians will face-off with short, humorous sets while the judges decide who moves on to the next round. Now in it’s 38th year, this is the largest touring comedy festival in America!

LAUGH SPONSORED BY

Columbia Pictures

Photo: David Guttenfelder

FRIDAY, NOV 17, 7:30 pm

SUNDAY, NOV 26, 5:00 pm

PHOTOJOURNALIST

SING-A-LONG ANNIE

DAVID GUTTENFELDER

A RARE LOOK: NORTH KOREA TO CUBA A: $39, B: $32, C: $22 For more than twenty years David Guttenfelder has traveled the world, covering international events in more than 100 countries. Repeatedly, he has broken through political barriers to reveal isolated nations to the world, helping to open the first Associated Press news bureau in North Korea in 2011, and last year boarding the first cruise liner to a newly opened Cuba. Using cameras, he examines the way people really live and makes connections around the world through social media.

A: $22 Our annual kick-off to the holiday season proves that “You’re Never Fully Dressed Without A Smile!” Relive the humor of Carol Burnett’s Miss Hannigan with “Little Girls,” and take a trip down “Easy Street” with Tim Curry and Bernadette Peters as Rooster and Lily St. Regis (like the hotel).

Fall in love with Albert Finney as Daddy Warbucks, and leave the “Hard Knock Life” behind for a few hours of red curls and wonderful fun.

Local host Lauren O’Neill is back to warm up the audience and lead our costume contest. An affordable treat for the whole family to enjoy!

Gallery Reception: 6:00 pm

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE PRESENTING SPONSOR

SPONSORED BY

SPONSORED BY

FORMA CONSTRUCTION The Washington Center 2017/18 Season | 8

A KENNY G CHRISTMAS WEDNESDAY, NOV 29, 7:30 pm

Take a joyous ride through the smooth sounds of jazz with the one-and-only Kenny G this holiday season! His first Christmas album, Miracles: The Holiday Album, ranks as the bestselling yuletide album ever made with more than 8 million copies sold.

In a recording career that spans almost three decades and 23 albums, Kenny G has solidified his reputation as the premier saxophonist in contemporary jazz. His concerts sell out quickly so make your holiday plans now, then sit back, relax and enjoy the king of smooth jazz in a special evening of festive music.

CELEBRATE SPONSORED BY 9 | www.washingtoncenter.org | (360) 753-8586

A: $117, B: $87, C: $67

WEDNESDAY, JAN 17, 7:30 pm

LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO

TUESDAY, JAN 23, 7:30 pm

INTERNATIONAL GUITAR NIGHT

A: $54, B: $44, C: $32

A: $44, B: $35, C: $27

With over 50 years of joyous and uplifting music, this a cappella vocal group has created a musical and spiritual experience that has touched a worldwide audience.

Their musical efforts over the past five decades have garnered praise and accolades from a wide body of people, organizations, and countries. Within this music are the intricate rhythms and harmonies of their native South African musical traditions. This GRAMMY Award winning group returns to Olympia for what promises to be a delightful evening of beautiful music!

Beginning in a converted laundromat in the Bay Area in 1995, International Guitar Night has grown to feature the best performing guitar composers from around the world. Audiences cherish the friendly, informal ambiance and unique brand of “guitar positivity” that has made it the most successful guitar showcase of its kind. 2018’s tour features Lulo Reinhardt, Marek Pasieczny, Michale Chapdelaine, and Calum Graham.

Gallery Reception: 6:00 pm

DISCOVER SPONSORED BY

The Washington Center 2017/18 Season | 10

Photo: Sam Esty Rayner

THURSDAY, JAN 25, 7:30 pm FRIDAY, JAN 26, 7:30 pm

BLONDE POISON IN THE BLACK BOX THEATER A: $37 What is the price of survival? Blonde Poison is a one-woman, one-act show that explores the Holocaust from a very different perspective. This true story is told from the perspective of Stella Goldschlag, a German Jew who collaborated to betray 3,000 fellow Jews to the Nazis.

LISTEN

MONDAY, JAN 29, 7:30 pm

ROSANNE CASH WITH JOHN LEVENTHAL

A: $69, B: $59, C: $42 Singer-songwriter Rosanne Cash and her collaborator, musical director, guitarist, and husband John Leventhal present an acoustic evening celebrating her prolific and deeply-rooted catalog of music.

Her collection of American roots songs encompasses sounds of the blues, gospel, folk, country, and rock which together take the audience on a rich journey that is both classic and completely contemporary.

Rosanne Cash, a four time GRAMMY Award winner and a member the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, has recorded fifteen albums, and has charted twentyone top forty country singles, eleven of which reached number one. She is “a storyteller and singer of exceptional grace and grit� (Boston Globe).

SPONSORED BY

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Photo: Gina Poole

FRIDAY, FEB 9, 7:30 pm FRIDAY, FEB 2, 7:30 pm

DISENCHANTED! THE HILARIOUS HIT MUSICAL!

CAMERAMAN BOB POOLE

NATURE ROARS BACK

A: $59, B: $47, C: $32 Poisoned apples. Glass slippers. Who needs ‘em?! Not Snow White and her posse of disenchanted princesses in the hilarious hit musical that’s anything but Grimm. Forget the princesses you think you know—the original storybook heroines have come back to life to set the record straight. After multiple sold-out runs nationwide, these royal renegades tossed off their tiaras to bring their hilariously subversive, not-for-the-kiddies musical to you—and what you thought about princesses will never be the same!

A: $39, B: $32, C: $22 A childhood in East Africa gave Emmy Award-winning cinematographer Bob Poole a fierce curiosity about the natural world as well as an adventurous spirit. Bob has documented the rebirth of a lost Eden: Mozambique’s Gorongosa National Park, a jewel of Africa’s parks system until civil war almost destroyed it. There, he joined forces with rangers and scientists on perhaps the biggest conservation project on the planet—and learned that the wild places we’ve broken can be put back together.

May be inappropriate for younger audiences; contains strong language.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE PRESENTING SPONSOR SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY

FORMA CONSTRUCTION

The Washington Center 2017/18 Season | 12

SPECIAL ENGAGEMENT!*

SATURDAY, FEB 10, 7:30 pm

Brian Reed is the host and co-creator of the groundbreaking podcast S-Town, a production of Serial and the public radio show This American Life. Reed spent more than 3 years reporting and writing S-Town, which began when a man named John B. McLemore asked Reed to investigate an alleged murder in his small Alabama town.

The series won widespread popular and critical acclaim for elevating audio storytelling into the realm of great literature and is currently the #1 podcast on iTunes. Using audio outtakes and reporting details that never made it into the final version, Reed reveals how his team invented this groundbreaking new way of telling a story.

A: $52, B: $44, C: $27 *This event is a special engagement and cannot be included in subscription packages. Tickets are on sale beginning June 20!

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SPONSORED BY

Logo Artwork by Valero Doval; Photos: Sandy Honig, Andrea Morales

OBSERVE

BRIAN REED

Photo: Elvis Suarez

WEDNESDAY, FEB 21, 7:30 pm

THURSDAY, MAR 8, 7:30 pm

GOD IS A SCOTTISH DRAG QUEEN

TIEMPO LIBRE A: $47, B: $37, C: $25

A: $32

Three-time GRAMMY Award nominated Afro-Caribbean music group Tiempo Libre is one of the hottest Latin bands today. Equally at home in concert halls, jazz clubs, festival stages and dance venues, Tiempo Libre is celebrated for its sophisticated tropical music featuring an irresistible, exhilarating mix of jazz harmonies, contemporary sonorities and seductive Latin rhythms.

This wickedly funny, highly acclaimed, original comedy is simply divine! God, dressed in a floral power suit, comes down to Earth to skewer everything from the Pope to politics in an unforgettable night of comedy! In this two act comedy of biblical proportions, God has chosen to present himself to the audience in order to clear up some misunderstandings about himself and his role as the Creator. Winner of 18 “Best of the Fest� awards and one of the most popular shows on the international fringe circuit, this show is sure to have you laughing in your seat!

INSPIRE SPONSORED BY

May be inappropriate for younger audiences; contains strong language.

SPONSORED BY

The Washington Center 2017/18 Season | 14

Photos: Julie Lemberger

Photos: Conrado Tapado & John Pai

SATURDAY, MAR 17, 7:30 pm

SEATTLE MEN’S CHORUS & SEATTLE WOMEN’S CHORUS A: $47, B: $37, C: $25 The internationally renowned Seattle Men’s Chorus and Seattle Women’s Chorus comprise the largest community chorus organization in North America, and stand out as the largest LGBT-identified men’s and women’s choruses in the world.

Don’t miss the chance to see two of the Pacific Northwest’s largest, most vibrant, and successful music organizations perform together on our Main Stage!

Gallery Reception: 6:00 pm

SPONSORED BY

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THURSDAY, MAR 29, 7:30 pm

STEPHEN PETRONIO COMPANY A: $64, B: $47, C: $32 Acclaimed by audiences and critics alike, Stephen Petronio is widely regarded as one of the leading dance-makers of his generation. New music, visual art, and fashion collide in his dances, producing powerfully modern landscapes for the senses. For 33 years, Petronio has built a body of work with some of the most talented and provocative artists in the world. For Stephen Petronio Company’s Washington Center debut, the program will feature a dynamic excerpt from Steve Paxton’s Goldberg Variations (1986), along with Petronio’s Untitled Touch (2017), a work driven by the immediacy of physical contact and the emotional repercussions of skin-toskin communication with an original score

by Son Lux, and the west coast premiere of a new Petronio work, Hardness 10.

SPONSORED BY

FRIDAY, APR 13, 7:30 pm

THE CENTER SALON IN THE BLACK BOX THEATER A: $12 In the tradition of Parisian salons of old, we present an intimate evening of music, theater, literature, and art. Local and regional masters of visual art, the written word, and music come together to share their experiences as artists and interact with you—the audience.

THURSDAY, APR 26, 7:30 pm

LAS CAFETERAS A: $39, B: $29, C: $15 Las Cafeteras create a vibrant musical fusion with a unique East LA sound and a community-focused political message.

Their Afro-Mexican rhythms, zapateado, and inspiring lyrics tell stories of a community who is looking for love and fighting for justice in the concrete jungle.

A remix of traditional Son Jarocho sounds, the band adds Afro-Caribbean marimbol and cajĂłn, poetry in English and Spanglish, and instruments like jarana, requinto, a donkey jawbone, and a wooden platform called the Tarima.

ENGAGE

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FRIDAY, MAY 18, 7:30 pm

SGT. PEPPER’S LONELY BLUEGRASS BAND

THURSDAYS, 7:30 pm JAN 18, FEB 22, MAR 22, APR 12, MAY 10, JUN 14

COMEDY IN THE BOX

A: $42, B: $32, C: $25 Bands have been covering Beatles tunes for decades, but none like Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Bluegrass Band. Imagine the music of the Fab Four shaken up with infusions of bluegrass and jazz and topped off with a classical twist. The result: a satisfying musical cocktail! We can’t imagine a better way to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the release of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Heart’s Club Band!

A: $22 Join us for six nights of laughter with national and regional comedians! Our intimate Black Box shows feature a headlining act, two opening performers, and a full bar. Perfect for a night out with friends, or a much-needed break from the typical Thursday routine; it’s the best comedy club in town. A new lineup every month promises more laughs and new material at each show!

Get your tickets early: these shows almost always sell out!

TRANSFORM SPONSORED BY

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Be advised that some performers include mature content.

SPONSORED BY

The Washington Center Gallery is open M–F, 12:00 pm–4:00 pm, subject to the event schedule of The Center. We encourage you to call (360) 753-8585 in order to set up an appointment.

If you are interested in showing your work in The Washington Center Gallery, please contact gallery@washingtoncenter.org.

NEW TOTEMS: OIL PAINTINGS

BY MARK LARSON Showing: SEP 15 – NOV 10

Reception: SEPT 15 at 6:00 pm

We are living in a time of tremendous cultural and environmental change, and threatened resources. Larson’s surreal paintings are an exploration into this complicated and often strained dialectic between humanity and nature in our modern world. New Totems aims to show us how we intersect with and have an impact on nature.

20TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY QUILT EXHIBIT Showing: NOV 16 – JAN 5

Reception: NOV 17 at 6:00 pm

The Washington Center and the Sew Many Stars quilting group are delighted to celebrate twenty years together! The Holiday Quilt Exhibit is an annual celebration of American textile arts which combine historical concepts and patterns with contemporary techniques. With quilts featuring a variety of themes, fabrics, and colors, this event is a long-time Olympia favorite and promises to present a unique variety of perspectives through exceptional talent.

PANORAMA ARTS GUILD: A CREATIVE COMMUNITY Showing: JAN 11 – MAR 8 Reception: JAN 23 at 6:00 pm This varied exhibit including photography, fiber arts, basketry, oil, watercolor and many other mediums, showcases the artistic talents of Panorama retirement community residents. They are artists who have come together from different environments to share their diverse works of art with other local artists and patrons.

PUGET SOUND SUMI ARTISTS Showing: MAR 13 – APR 20

Reception: MAR 17 at 6:00 pm

PSSA Association are a very active group numbering nearly 70 members from all over Washington. Puget Sound Sumi Artists was created in 1986 in Tacoma to promote an understanding and appreciation of sumi painting (Sumi-e) and Asian calligraphy (shodo). They work with traditional materials and encourage individual creativity. The artists are committed to share their Asian art interest with the public.

SHOW OF HEARTS: FORGED SCULPTURE

BY LISA GEERTSEN Showing: APR 26 – JUN 22

Reception: APR 27 at 6:00 pm

Geertsen has been working professionally with metal since 1999 and her commission work ranges from architectural fabrication to site-specific sculptures. She has a BFA in sculpture from West Virginia University and is a blacksmithing instructor and Metal and Stone Sculpture Studio Manager at Pratt Fine Arts Center. Geertsen is the owner of Firelight Forge, a custom metalwork company located in the Georgetown neighborhood of Seattle.

SPONSORED BY The Washington Center 2017/18 Season | 18

FRIDAY, OCT 27, 8:00 pm

For 45 years Steve Luceno has been involved in performing live music. His experience has mostly been in standard jazz, Caribbean music, and rhythm & blues. His original songs are usually based on one or two melodic motifs with development. The rhythms are strong, and there’s plenty of room for spontaneous creativity, as provided generously by his band-mates.

DMITRI MATHENY

FRIDAY, JAN 19, 8:00 pm

Voted “Northwest Instrumentalist of the Year” in the recent Seattle Earshot Jazz Golden Ear Awards, flugelhornist/composer Dmitri Matheny has been lauded as “one of the most emotionally expressive improvisers of his generation” (International Review of Music). First introduced to jazz audiences in the 1990s as the protégé of the legendary Art Farmer, Matheny has matured into “one of the jazz world’s most talented horn players” (SF Chronicle), touring internationally and releasing eleven critically acclaimed CDs.

CLIMATE CHANGE

FRIDAY, MAR 23, 8:00 pm

Climate Change consists of four stylistically different, cutting edge musicians who come together to blend their creative influences into a statement musical harmony. Synthesizing these numerous influences into one, integrated musical statement, Climate Change’s original music creates evocative images while inspiring your feet to move. Climate Change features Dennis Hastings, Steve Luceno, Tarik Bentlesani, and Michael Olsen.

JOE MAILHOT

FRIDAY, MAY 11, 8:00 pm

Joe Mailhot’s original compositions are inspired by jazz masters like John Coltrane, Ornette Coleman, Miles Davis, Albert Ayler, and The Art Ensemble of Chicago as well as by modern European composers like Krzystzof Pendercki, George Crumb, and Igor Stravinsky. His work travels to musical soundscapes bombastic, tender, wild, beautiful, brilliant, and dark. It’s not about the music but where the music takes you.

SPONSORED BY

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Each show: $27

Ramsay Photography

STEVE LUCENO

SILENT MOVIE SERIES Our annual Silent Movie Series is curated by our own house organist Dennis James. Each movie event is presented with live musical accompaniment on our historic Mighty Andy Crow Wurlitzer Organ—a treasure restored from 1924.

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA SUNDAY, OCT 15, 2:00 pm This justly-celebrated American cinema classic recounts the story of a demented organist lurking in the catacombs beneath the Paris Opera House. His unrequited love for beautiful soprano, Christine, causes mayhem throughout the city. Lon Chaney Sr. stars in the 1925 film that defined the horror genre for audiences worldwide.

BUSTER KEATON IN STEAMBOAT BILL JR. SUNDAY, JAN 21, 2:00 pm Featuring some of Keaton’s most famous sight gags, this 1928 comedy is part prodigal son, part Romeo and Juliet, and all laughs. Keaton shines while performing his own stunts, including a legendary scene with a falling house.

CHARLIE CHAPLIN SHORTS SUNDAY, APR 15, 2:00 pm Four of Charlie Chaplin’s hilarious short films presented together for a jolly afternoon of everyone’s favorite Little Tramp! The Immigrant, The Vagabond, The Fireman, and The Adventurer all star Chaplin and his favorite leading lady Edna Purviance.

Each movie: $23

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ARTISTIC PARTNERS

The Washington Center takes pride in maintaining a world-class venue for over 20 local Artistic and Community Partners who call The Center home. Please view our website for all scheduled events taking place at The Washington Center and the Kenneth J. Minnaert Center at SPSCC.

Ballet Northwest

Ballet Northwest presents its 48th season of high quality dance performances, outreach, and educational opportunities in the South Sound: • Young Choreographers Showcase – August 27 at the Kenneth J. Minnaert Center • Eugene Ballet’s Mowgli – The Jungle Book Ballet October 22 at The Washington Center • The Nutcracker – December 8–17 at The Washington Center • Olympia Dance Festival – March 3 at The Washington Center • Swan Lake – May 11–13 at The Washington Center www.balletnorthwest.org info@balletnorthwest.org / (360) 867-8824

Casa Patas Flamenco Foundation

The Honorary Consulate of Spain, sponsor of Spanish cultural events throughout the Northwest, presents: Casa Patas Flamenco Foundation and Conservatory of Madrid to once again heat up the night, on November 19, at The Washington Center, taking us on an exciting journey through the movements, rhythms, and voices of FLAMENCO. More about this and other flamenco events in the Northwest, contact: Annette Baumgartner Flamenco_Olympia@comcast.net / (360) 507-1234

Debbi’s Dance Etc.

Debbi’s Dance, Etc. celebrates its 42nd year teaching dance with its “Dance Spectacular” June 23–24, 2018. Three separate performances will showcase talented dancers of all ages. Each show is different and presents a variety of dance styles including tap, jazz, hip hop, lyrical, ballet, and acrobatic dance. www.DebbisDanceEtc.com / (360) 456-6350

Entertainment Explosion

Close to 60 volunteers, ages 52 to 88, present a musical concert at The Washington Center for the Performing Arts each March. “A Really Big Shoe” benefits over 2,000 homeless and needy children in 8 local school districts and Community Youth Services. Since 2007, EE has raised over $276,000 for the kids.

• A Really Big Shoe 12 – February 25, 2018 at 2:00 pm Folk-singing legends The Brothers Four LIVE in concert. www.entertainmentexplosion.org EE@entertainmentexplosion.org

Emerald City Music

Meet Olympia’s newest arts presenter! ECM combines the world’s highest caliber classical musicians with an eclectic selection of curated chamber works. Come out for a fun and memorable night! Two additional concerts (Dec 9, 2017 & May 5, 2018) are listed on our website.

• Not Even the Wind... – Sept 16, 2017 world-premiere of John Luther Adams work.

• Percussionist Andy Akiho... –Oct 28, 2017 • Spiritual Journey... – Feb 17, 2018 • In Blue... – Mar 24, 2018

Johansen Olympia Dance Center

Johansen Olympia Dance Center has been offering high quality dance classes in a positive environment for 45 years. The Center is the home of Ballet Northwest, and utilizes the American Ballet Theatre National Training Curriculum. Classes include preballet, ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, stretch & strengthen, and parent/toddler. The Center’s annual recitals are free to the public and held on Sunday, June 10 at 12pm, 2pm, 4pm, and 6pm. www.olympiadancecenter.com directors@olympiadancecenter.com / (360) 943-8011

Masterworks Choral Ensemble

Masterworks Choral Ensemble is an adult Southwest Washington chorus dedicated to performance, community service, music education, and leadership in the arts.

2017–2018 Season (All Performances at 7:30PM) • Way Out West – October 14, 2017 Beloved American Ballads • Season of Light – December 2, 2017 • Harmony Sweepstakes – March 10, 2018 A Cappella Festival • Hidden Musical Figures – April 14, 2018 Women Composers • Naughty and Nice – June 16, 2018 Broadway’s Villains and Heroes Gary Witley – Artistic Director and Conductor www.mce.org / info@mce.org / (360) 491-3305

Olympia Junior Programs

OJP presents low-cost, school day shows for elementary students and their teachers, and homeschool families. Programs are curriculumrelated and performed by professional, national touring companies. This year’s shows are: Waters of the Earth: Multicultural Tales of the Sea; The Adventures of Bella & Harry – Let’s Visit London! The Musical!; Frindle; and Mr. Popper’s Penguins.

Ginger Waite / www.olympiajuniorprograms.com president@olympiajuniorprograms.com / (360) 943-6614

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Olympia Chamber Orchestra

Bringing Music to the Southwest Washington Area for over 25 Years.

Expect more Unexpected next season. Join us at the Minnaert Center for the Arts on Saturday November 4, 2017 at 7:30 pm for our Season Opener; on Saturday March 3, 2018 at 7:30 pm for our Mid-Season concert; and on Sunday June 17, 2018 at 3:30 pm for our Season Finale. www.olympiachamberorchestra.org

Olympia Downtown Association

The Olympia Downtown Association is an accredited National and State Main Street Association. The ODA’s mission is “To preserve, promote and enhance the downtown Olympia community.” The ODA strives to enhance the downtown experience through events, leading monthly Safety Committee meetings, interacting with OPD Walking Patrol officers and representation on city committees. The ODA maintains partnerships with many downtown stakeholders, and is proud to be an Artistic Partner of The Washington Center for the Performing Arts. For more information on ODA events & Main Street committees, visit the ODA website & follow them on all social media.

Todd Cutts – Executive Director / tcutts@downtownolympia.org www.downtownolympia.com / (360) 357-8948

Olympia Symphony Orchestra

The OSO’s 65th Anniversary Season, “Thinking Big,” features the world premiere of Festschrift, composed by Austin Schlichting, grandson of former OSO Music Director, Fred Schlichting. The celebratory season will conclude with a grand performance of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. All concerts are at 7:00 pm, unless otherwise stated.

• Opening Statements – October 8, 2017 • Four Funerals and a Wedding – November 12, 2017 • Closing Remarks – February 19, 2018 (3:00 pm) • Northern Exposure – March 25, 2018 • Coming Full Circle – April 22, 2018 Jennifer Hermann, Executive Director www.olympiasymphony.org oso@olympiasymphony.com / (360) 753-0074

Olympia Union Gospel Mission

Saturday, October 21, 7:00 pm, the talented dental community, along with a host of friends, will blend retro cool with contemporary sounds to bring you the ultimate jukebox show, Motown Downtown, at The Washington Center for the Performing Arts. A mix of pop classics with doowop, Motown, and soul standards is led by the Olympia Jazz Senators with vocalists from Souled Out, and showcasing Debbi’s Dance.

Join us for Motown Downtown for an unforgettable journey through the 60’s. Be a teenager once again, dancing in your seats and singing along. www.ougm.org / krina@ougm.org / (360) 709-9725

South Puget Sound Community College

The Kenneth J. Minnaert Center for the Arts at SPSCC hosts a diverse group of artists, activists, scholars, and performers each year, open to the community.

The beautiful 500-seat venue welcomes annual events and presentations like the SPSCC Artist & Lecture Series, exhibitions at The Gallery, student music, drama, and film presentations, and many special guests. We invite you to join us for a show and connect with our community.

Olympia Youth Chorus

OYC is a well-established, non-profit choral music education program serving youth ages 5-18 in the greater South Sound area.

Olympia Youth Chorus has five choirs, over 120 singers, and was founded in 1995 by Artistic Director Cynthia Dinsmore.

OYC will perform March 24th 2018 on The Washington Center main stage.

Lorraine Hamilton, Executive Director www.olympiayouthchorus.org olympiayouthchoruse@outlook.com / (360) 701-4518

Student Orchestras of Greater Olympia

The Student Orchestra of Greater Olympia (SOGO) provides challenging opportunities for young musicians and three engaging concerts for the community: • Fall Concert – November 5, 2017 • Winter Concert – March 4, 2018 • Spring Concert – May 20, 2018 (all performances at 4 pm at The Washington Center) SOGO also presents at The Center, free and open to the public, the Messiah Sing-Along on December 18 and the Instrument Petting Zoo for kids of all ages to blow, bow, and buzz the orchestral instruments during the Olympia Spring Arts Walk.

Krina Allison, Executive Director / www.studentorchestras.org Studentorchestras@gmail.com / (360) 352-1438

Studio West Dance Academy & Theatre

Studio West’s mission is to provide quality dance training in a nurturing atmosphere to students of all ages and abilities.

Our primary goal is to instill self confidence while developing self-discipline, coordination, flexibility, grace and artistry in every student. Studio West believes maintaining a wholesome environment will create accomplished dancers and beautiful people. The academy’s all school Spring Showcase performance will be held on June 2–3, 2018 at The Washington Center for the Performing Arts.

Theatre performing season: • The Nutcracker – December 10, 14–17, 2017 at The Kenneth J. Minnaert Center for the Arts • Dance to Make a Difference – March 10, 2018 at The Kenneth J. Minnaert Center for the Arts • Spring Ballet, TBA – May 3–5, 2018 at The Washington Center for the Arts Stephanie Wood-Ennett and Mary Cecelia Piper, Directors www.studiowestdanceacademy.com info@studiowestdanceacademy.com / (360) 956-WEST(9378)

Timberland Regional Library

Something for Everyone Serving the South Sound since 1968 • Books, Movies and Music (eBooks & audiobooks) • Computers, Printers & Wi-Fi • Children’s Storytimes • Events for Kids, Teens and Adults • Ask-A-Librarian service (1-800-562-6022) • Online Courses & eMagazines by Zinio Lacey – Olympia – Tenino – Tumwater – Yelm • Special Event – October 26, 2017 at 7:00 pm Author Reyna Grande – The Distance Between Us www.TRL.org

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CREATIVE CONNECTIONS

The Washington Center’s educational and community outreach programs

The Washington Center provides education, access, and exposure to the arts for youth and students in our community. Exposure to the arts sharpens critical thinking and creative skills, and contributes to achievement and success for life.

EDUCATION Anacker Scholarship for the Arts The Anacker scholarship is presented to one graduating high school senior in Thurston County intending to pursue a career in the arts.

Student-only educational performances Introducing students to live performances and exceptional arts professionals through in-school workshops, performances, and student matinees.

Young Arts Ambassadors This year-long program provides teens and young adults the opportunity to develop leadership, workforce, and life skills in the arts to achieve their highest potential as citizens in the global community.

ACCESS Student Tickets Students of all ages always get a 10% discount with valid student I.D.

2017 Anacker Scholarship Winner, Henry Nordhorn

Youth Tickets Youth ages 14 and under receive a 50% discount (Children 2 and younger do not need to purchase a ticket to sit on a parent or guardian’s lap.)

Student Rush Tickets On the day of performance, $10 Student Rush Tickets are available to anybody 14 and younger, or with valid student I.D. Rush tickets must be purchased in person.

ARTS EXPOSURE Prelude Series Prelude provides an opportunity for local musicians to showcase their talent. This series offers the groups the chance to perform in our lobby before Main Stage shows or Art Gallery Receptions. Ideally suited for musical groups of up to five members.

Ramsay Photography

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The Center Gallery Open to the public by appointment, or to ticketed patrons 1 hour prior to an event; The Washington Center gallery has been proud host to many artists and artist’s guilds since its inception!

You inspire, You educate Your gift provides access to the arts, education, and diverse programming. Contributions ensure that The Washington Center continues to be a home for the arts well into the future.

DONATE TODAY! We gratefully recognize our donors and offer generous benefits which are listed on our website.

Gifts to The Washington Center can be made online at www.washingtoncenter.org or by mail to 512 Washington St SE, Olympia, WA 98501.

Please contact our development staff for assistance or more information: Jocelyn Wood, Development Director (360) 753-8585 x103 jwood@washingtoncenter.org FRIENDS of The Center at The Pirates of Penzance in March 2016.

We have the BEST volunteer team around!

VOLUNTEER AT THE CENTER

There are many opportunities for you to roll up your sleeves and help The Center; please consider volunteering your time.

To become a volunteer, simply attend a training session. Trainings are good for 2 years.

All volunteer trainings begin promptly at 6:30 pm. Dates can be found on our website.

To learn more, contact: volunteers@washingtoncenter.org or call (360) 753-8585 Volunteers Peggy Johnson, Kat Will, George Dougherty, Cathy Fowler, and Margo Eytinge at an April 2017 event.

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BOX OFFICE INFORMATION TICKET DISCOUNTS Seniors 10% off

Patrons 65 & older

Military 10% off

Active, retired or reservist patrons & one dependent

Students 10% off

Patrons 18 & younger or with valid Student ID

Youth† 50% off

Patrons 14 & younger

Student Rush $10 tickets

ONLY AVAILABLE DAY OF SHOW in person to patrons 18 and younger OR with valid Student ID

Group Tickets* 15% off

Patrons in groups of 15 or more

*Please contact Box Office to reserve group tickets

Box Office Hours 12:00 pm – 5:30 pm Tuesday – Saturday & two hours before any ticketed event Phone: (360) 753-8586 Email: boxoffice@washingtoncenter.org

FEES A $3.00 per ticket facility fee is charged for all single tickets. This fee contributes to The Center’s refresh and renew efforts which keep our facility clean and safe.

Season subscribers pay only one $15 processing fee.

TICKET DONATION If you are unable to attend the event for which you hold tickets, please consider making a ticket donation. This makes the seats you purchased available to another patron. This donation is tax deductible, and you will receive a receipt in the mail following the performance. To donate tickets, please contact the Box Office prior to the event.

EXCHANGES You may exchange your tickets for any other Washington Center 2017-2018 season event. Exchanges must occur before the start time of the original event and may be processed in person or over the phone.

Exchanges are subject to availability and the patron is responsible for a $3 exchange fee per ticket. Members of our FRIENDS program are exempt from ticket exchange fees.

REFUNDS The Washington Center for the Performing Arts does not offer refunds. All ticket sales are final.

CANCELLATIONS AND CHANGES Ramsay Photography

All events at The Washington Center and Minnaert Center are subject to change or cancellation without notice. In the unlikely event of such a change or cancellation, we will attempt to contact you using the contact information you provided at the time of purchase. †Not all performances are suitable for all ages. We encourage parents to investigate events before purchasing tickets.

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HOUSE POLICIES • All patrons age three and older must purchase a ticket.

• All children 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

• Please be respectful and courteous of your fellow theatergoers. Disruptive patrons may be asked to leave the theater at the discretion of the Front of House Manager.

• Late arrivals will be seated at the discretion of the Front of House staff. The late seating policy is set by the Artist(s), their production personnel, and the Front of House Manager, and will vary for each performance. Please arrive on time for all productions.

• Use of cell phones, cameras, or other electronic devices is strictly prohibited within the theater.

Recording, video-taping or photography is prohibited without prior permission.

ACCESSIBILITY If somebody in your party has an accessibility need, please contact the Box Office prior to the event and we will arrange accommodations. During your visit, our volunteer ushers and Front of House Managers will be happy to assist you.

Accommodations include: • Elevator access to the Mezzanine and Balcony levels† • Seating without armrests • Seating options for patrons with wheelchairs, walkers, or scooters • Wheelchair and walker accessible washrooms on the Orchestra level Assistive listening devices are available at the south end of the concessions counter.

Service Animals: Trained service animals are permitted to assist guests inside the theater. If special accommodations are required for your service animal, please notify us at the time of ticket purchase.

All other animals are prohibited. †Please note that most seats in these levels still require using stairs.

The Washington Center 2017/18 Season | 26

SUBSCRIBER INFORMATION SUBSCRIPTION OPTIONS Build your own season: Package deals: Choose 5 or more events for 10% off Choose 8 or more events for 15% off OR Choose to go ALL-IN for 20% off Subscribe by the following dates to secure the best seats for your subscription: Same Seat Subscribers – July 7 You are a same seat subscriber if: • You subscribed in the 16-17 Season • You want the same seats for every event

Looking for tickets to one or two shows?

Single event tickets go on sale August 15!

SEATING PRIORITY Subscription seating priority is based on three key factors: Subscriber Type — Same Seat Subscribers are seated first, followed by Returning Subscribers, followed by New Subscribers.

FRIENDS Level — FRIENDS are seated by membership level. Donors at the Benefactor level are seated first, followed by Producers, Presenters, Spotlight, Actors, Patrons, and Contributors.

Subscription Date — The sooner you turn in your subscription form, the sooner we will seat you.

PAYMENT OPTIONS: Returning Subscribers — July 21 You are a returning subscriber if: All At Once — This option is for patrons • You subscribed in the 16-17 Season who want to pay for their entire order at • You don’t have specific seats that you once. We accept cash, check, or credit card, prefer and the payment will be processed 2 to 5 business days after we receive your order.

New Subscribers – August 4 You are a new subscriber if: 2 or 4 installment Payment Plan — This • You did not subscribe in the 16-17 season affordable option allows you to pay for your Subscriptions may be ordered at any time, order in two or four monthly payments. the above dates are merely priority seating Initial payments will be charged when the subscription is received, and subsequent dates. payments will be charged on the 15th of each following month. Patrons wishing to take advantage of the payment plan option must turn in their subscriptions before July 22.

SINGLE TICKETS GO ON SALE TUESDAY, AUGUST 15 Supporters Bob and Teran Haase

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WASHINGTON CENTER MAIN STAGE

Mail your completed subscription form to:

512 Washington St SE Olympia, WA 98501 Fax to: (360) 754-1177 Or call during Box Office hours:

(360) 753-8586

Supporters Kim and Quint Newell

The Washington Center 2017/18 Season | 28

NEED AN EVENT SPACE?

For rental information and scheduling please contact our front office at (360) 753-8585.

Ramsay Photography

Galas, performances, weddings, meetings, and more!

The Washington Center is home to hundreds of events each year and our dedicated staff know how to make each and every special occasion go off without a hitch.

The Washington Center for the Performing Arts, South Puget Sound’s beloved performing arts facility, is committed to providing a wide variety of entertainment and cultural activities for the residents of five counties.

We inspire audiences and artists of all ages through live performances, enriching the vibrancy of our community.

The Washington Center’s vision is to: • deliver diverse, affordable, high-quality performing arts programs; • support the artistic interests of performing arts groups within the region; • promote performing arts education in the south Puget Sound region for all age groups; • maintain fair and equitable community access to The Washington Center Performing Arts facility; • provide a well-maintained and contemporary performance center that is responsive to needs of audience and performer comfort, safety, and access; • operate in a fiscally responsible manner and form supportive partnerships with government, corporations, businesses, foundations, and individuals; • foster economic vitality, tourism and local development in the south Puget Sound region, and; • provide opportunities for staff to develop to their full personal and professional potential.

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We gratefully acknowledge our sponsors for their support of the arts!

SPONSORS

2017/18 SEASON SPONSORS:

2017/18 PERFORMANCE SPONSORS:

FORMA CONSTRUCTION

TICKET SPONSOR

LITERARY SPONSOR

LIBERTY LOUNGE SPONSOR

GALLERY SPONSORS

The Washington Center 2017/18 Season | 30

OCT 5 Gaelic Storm (pg. 4) OCT 12 A Night with Janis Joplin (pg. 5) OCT 15 Silent Movie Series: The Phantom of The Opera (pg. 20) OCT 19 Piaf! The Show (pg. 5) OCT 27 Black Box Jazz: Steve Luceno (pg. 19) OCT 28 Dala (pg. 6) NOV 1 Matt Andersen & Shemekia Copeland (pg. 7) NOV 16 Seattle International Comedy Competition (pg. 7) NOV 17 National Geographic Live David Guttenfelder (pg. 8) NOV 26 Sing-a-long Annie (pg. 8) NOV 29 A Kenny G Christmas (pg. 9) JAN 17 Ladysmith Black Mambazo (pg. 10) JAN 18 Comedy in the Box: January (pg. 17) JAN 19 Black Box Jazz: Dmitri Matheny (pg. 19) JAN 21 Silent Movie Series: Steamboat Bill Jr. (pg. 20) JAN 23 International Guitar Night (pg. 10) JAN 25 & 26 Blonde Poison (pg. 11) JAN 29 Rosanne Cash with John Leventhal (pg. 11) FEB 2 Disenchanted! The Hilarious Hit Musical! (pg. 12) FEB 9 National Geographic Live Bob Poole (pg. 12) FEB 10 Brian Reed* (pg. 13) FEB 21 Tiempo Libre (pg. 14) FEB 22 Comedy in the Box: February (pg. 17) MAR 8 God is a Scottish Drag Queen (pg. 14) MAR 17 Seattle Men’s Chorus & Seattle Women’s Chorus (pg. 15) MAR 22 Comedy in the Box: March (pg. 17) MAR 23 Black Box Jazz: Climate Change (pg. 19) MAR 29 Stephen Petronio Company (pg. 15) APR 12 Comedy in the Box: April (pg. 17) APR 13 The Center Salon (pg. 16) APR 15 Silent Movie Series: Charlie Chaplin Shorts (pg. 20) APR 26 Las Cafeteras (pg. 16) MAY 10 Comedy in the Box: May (pg. 17) MAY 11 Black Box Jazz: Joe Mailhot (pg. 19) MAY 18 Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Bluegrass Band (pg. 17) JUN 14 Comedy in the Box: June (pg. 17)

Box Office: (360) 753-8586 Administrative Office: (360) 753-8585 www.washingtoncenter.org www.olytix.org

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