In 1930, amidst the bustling energy of Seattle’s University District, the Floyd and Delores Jones Playhouse first opened its doors. It wasn’t always a playhouse though. The building began life as a humble tile warehouse. Visionaries Burton and Florence James transformed it into the Seattle Repertory Playhouse. They envisioned a space where diverse performers and audiences could come together. The Floyd and Delores Jones Playhouse quickly became a hub for innovative and inclusive theatre. The Jameses even secured funding from the Federal Theatre Project. This allowed them to establish the Negro Repertory Company, a groundbreaking initiative during the New Deal era. The company showcased powerful productions like “Stevedore” and a bold adaptation of “Lysistrata.” They even dared to reject “Porgy and Bess,” deeming it offensive. This commitment to challenging social norms solidified the Playhouse’s reputation as a space for bold storytelling. The Playhouse wasn’t immune to controversy. In 1948, the Jameses faced scrutiny from the Canwell Committee for their socialist views. This mirrored the national Red Scare anxieties. Despite challenges, the Playhouse persevered. In 1950, it was sold to the University of Washington. The university continued the Playhouse’s legacy of theatrical innovation. In 1967, the stage was transformed into a thrust stage. This allowed for more dynamic and immersive performances. A major renovation from 2007 to 2009 added another story and modernized the facilities. The Playhouse was renamed in honor of Floyd and Delores Jones, whose foundation generously supported the project. Today, the Floyd and Delores Jones Playhouse stands as a testament to the power of theatre to inspire, challenge, and unite. It’s a reminder of the visionaries who transformed a simple tile warehouse into a cultural landmark.
Queen Anne Boulevard
“A scenic loop,” they called it. Queen Anne Boulevard gracefully winds around the crest of Queen Anne Hill. It offers