Our mission is to provide a multi-generational gathering place in West Seattle, promoting community through entertainment and arts-focused classes full of play, joy, and delight.
Seattle Artists is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that operates Kenyon Hall, a community center for the arts in West Seattle. We host live music, theatrical performances, dance, and comedy shows, free programming like open mic nights and improv workshops, as well as music lessons for kids and teens in a historic West Seattle setting.
We are committed to ongoing learning in areas of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. We hope to work with our community to develop safe spaces for their application.
History
What has come to be known and loved as Kenyon Hall was originally built in 1916 as the Olympic Heights Social Hall, a friendly community social club. In 1993, it opened as a performance and education space for music and theater and has since been owned by local nonprofit Seattle Artists, providing an inclusive and welcoming community arts and education space for creatives to express themselves. Despite many iterations of the historic Hall over its century of life, one thing is certain—it is a community staple in our little corner of West Seattle.
The Mighty Wurlitzer
Kenyon Hall is home of the 1929 Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ and features dozens of instruments built into the walls of the building. One of the only organs of its kind on the West Coast, the Wurlitzer is an electro-mechanical synthesizer, centered around the double manual organ console that controls dozens of acoustic instruments lining the theater walls by sending electrical impulses. The back of the theater houses a traditional pipe organ room, which pairs with the instruments that line the walls.
Remembering Lou Magor
A founder and beloved impresario of Kenyon Hall, Lou Magor was the very heart and soul of our organization until his passing in 2021. Lou’s vision and joyful leadership shaped every facet of Kenyon Hall, from booking quality entertainment and attracting talent from around the world to managing the upkeep of an old, quirky building with unflappable cheer. We are especially grateful for his skill and guidance in procuring the wonderful Steinway grand piano and the Mighty Wurlitzer for the Hall. His legacy leads us in all we do, and we endeavor to keep his spirit alive and well at the Hall.
Learn more about Lou’s legacy and his immense contribution to our community.
