Seattle's historic Kerry Hall to be preserved as arts hub

Kerry Hall, a historic performance space in Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood, has been sold to Seattle Theater Group (STG) after being owned by Cornish College of the Arts. This sale sparked concerns among former students and artists who relied on the venue for rehearsals and performances; they mobilized to petition for its preservation. Their collective efforts underscored the building's significance as a cultural landmark in the arts community, which has been prominent since the 1920s. With the acquisition, STG is committed to maintaining the artistic legacy of Kerry Hall and plans to serve approximately 40,000 people annually through community programs. The space has deep ties to modern dance history, having hosted renowned figures like Merce Cunningham.

Former Cornish student Adriana Wright expressed relief and excitement, calling the acquisition a "Kismet moment. " The transition to STG is seen as a positive outcome for the future of Kerry Hall, ensuring it will continue to be a vital part of Seattle's cultural landscape. This development reflects the community's dedication to preserving its artistic heritage.