ABOUT US

Located in the heart of Columbia City, Columbia City Theater is a space for gathering, art, and community. Home to Rainier Avenue Radio, the theater serves as an outlet for connecting to the community of South Seattle, hosting forums, shows, private events, and public gatherings for educational purposes or for expression. Much like the diverse community it serves, the theater is a reflection of a wide array of uses and ideas.

Built in 1920,  the Theater has taken on many forms throughout it's historic and illustrious tenure in Columbia City, originally built as a candy shop and then a vaudeville theater before transforming into a film theater and music venue. Throughout the years it has hosted the artistic talents of Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald, Quincy Jones, Jimi Hendrix, Nirvanna, and many local and international stars that have made their way through the Pacific Northwest. 

Purchased in 2022 by Rainier Avenue Radio and The Cultural Space Agency, Columbia City Theater continues to expand on it's tradition of independent expression and ideas, hosting forums for Climate Justice (Earth Deserves More Than A Day), Political Debates and community forums, Music Festivals, and has transformed into a local Black History Month Exhibit for the month of Feburary since it's transition of ownership. Uniquely different, boldly determined to give a voice to the community of South Seattle and beyond.