Events List Navigation
March 2015
SAL Presents: An Evening with Ann Hamilton
Co-Presented by Seattle Times. Sponsored by Henry Art Gallery, Marquand Books and Reed Longyear Malnati & Ahrens PLLC. "You have to trust the things you can't name," Ann Hamilton contends, adding, in a related thought, "you feel through your body, you take in the world through your skin." Ann Hamilton is a visual artist internationally recognized for the sensory surrounds of her large-scale multi-media installations. Using time as process and material, her methods of making serve as an invocation of…
Find out more »April 2015
Youth Speaks Seattle GRAND SLAM 2015 // ft. Mary Lambert, hosted by Hollis
Arts Corps presents Youth Speaks Seattle GRAND SLAM 2015 Doors at 6:30pm / Show at 7:00pm @ Town Hall Seattle (First Hill) 1119 8th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101 Hosted by Hollis Wong-Wear, of the Flavr Blue Featuring: Mary Lambert Sacrificial Poet: Hamda Yusuf Voice of God: Donte Johnson 10$ youth / 20$ adults // Homie discount for groups of 5+ youth = 7$ per ticket BUY TICKETS: yss2015.brownpapertickets.com 12 finalists grace the Grand Slam stage for 1 transformative night of…
Find out more »May 2015
Town Hall and Gay City Arts present: Word Play 4: Spoken Word Poetry Festival
The annual Word Play festival celebrates Seattle’s diverse LGBTQ arts community, bringing together queer poets in recovery for an evening of spoken word highlighting their experiences living with addiction. This evening program (followed by an artists’ reception) will feature local artists from different recovery backgrounds, who’ll take the mic to speak the truth about bottoming out, getting back up, and moving on. Past performers have included Jodie Knowles, Tara Hardy, Okanomode, and Cole Arden Peake. This one-day spoken word festival…
Find out more »Ignite Seattle 27: EXPERIMENTATION
This legendary evening of short and fascinating presentations, started in in 2006, has a simple goal “Enlighten us, but make it quick.” 16 passionate Seattleites are given 5 minutes at the microphone to inspire, inform, entertain or do all at the same time. Ignite Seattle 27, on May 20th 2015 will be the first time we’re going to have a theme for the evening. What’s a theme, you ask? Good question. What we want to do is an experiment. All…
Find out more »June 2015
Seattle Arts & Lectures presents: Judy Blume In Conversation with Nancy Pearl
Beloved by growing girls everywhere–and their moms, dads, and brothers–Judy Blume’s books have been a staple over the past four decades. From her memorable young adult novels (Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret, Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing) to her works for adults, Blume’s award-winning writing has been adored by fans–and often challenged by critics. She’ll appear in conversation with Nancy Pearl to discuss her long career, focusing on her most recent adult novel. Her first since 1998,…
Find out more »ACLU-WA presents Steve Shapiro: The State of Civil Liberties at the Supreme Court
The Supreme Court’s hearings on gay marriage made national headlines in April, and the verdict they give this month could change the state of civil liberties. Steve Shapiro, national ACLU legal director, will discuss this and other ongoing, vital cases moving through the higher courts. In addition to tackling the topic of extending the right for lesbians and gays to marry, he’ll discuss reining in government surveillance, countering the Hobby Lobby decision, protecting voting rights, and tackling injustice in the…
Find out more »July 2015
QLaw Foundation presents: The Continuing Fight for LGBTQ Equality
With the Supreme Court’s recent legislative decision upholding same-sex marriage in all 50 states, LGBTQ equality is at the forefront of social and political decisions. Despite this landmark decision, discrimination still exists in workplaces, health care, education, and other areas. This community meeting will discuss the Supreme Court’s ruling, what it says about the current state of LGBTQ equality, and examine key areas where there’s still work to be done. Attorneys from Lambda Legal, the ACLU of Washington, Legal Voice,…
Find out more »City Councilmembers Kshama Sawant and Nick Licata present Debate: Rent Control in Seattle Sawant, Licata vs. State Rep. Matt Manweller, Roge
We’re faced with a shortage of affordable housing in this city. Does Seattle need rent control? This debate will bring together opposing views–would rent control work here; would it solve Seattle’s affordable housing crisis; and is the prospect even possible? Seattle City Councilmembers Kshama Sawant and Nick Licata will argue that yes, it is possible and it will help. On the opposite side, Washington State Representative Matt Manweller and Roger Valdez, Growth and Development Lobbyist, will argue the negatives of…
Find out more »SDOT presents: Center City Bike Network Open House
Do you walk, bus, or bike in the downtown area? If so, the Seattle Department of Transportation needs your input to help map the city’s protected bike lanes. These bike-friendly lanes could be installed on 5th Avenue and other parts of downtown, as part of SDOT’s plan to create a network of protected bike lanes. This open house will give updates on the project and next steps in the process. Share personal experiences at this open house to help make…
Find out more »September 2015
Paul Shoemaker with Eleuthera Lisch: Your Roadmap to Creating Social Change in the PNW
Social challenges exist at every level in our society, but with so many challenges, where do we start? Social Venture Partners’ Paul Shoemaker points to individual determination, optimism, and grit as the foundation for successful social change. In Can’t Not Do, he outlines the seven characteristics people with the “i-can’t-not-do-something-about-this” outlook have. Shoemaker will appear in conversation with Eleuthera Lisch, head of Government Relations for the YMCA of Greater Seattle and a featured leader in Can’t Not Do. They’ll discuss…
Find out more »Seattle Speaks: Move Seattle Levy
This November, Seattle voters will decide on the biggest levy in Seattle history – $930 million over nine years. The ambitious Move Seattle measure, paid for through a property tax, replaces an existing transportation levy that expires at the end of 2015. Some critics say the proposal is a collection of disconnected projects and question where the levy dollars will go. Supporters say levy investments offer more choices to move people and goods around Seattle safely and affordably and will…
Find out more »October 2015
Seattle City Council Debate: District 3 Kshama Sawant and Pamela Banks
This year’s talked-about Seattle City Council elections–the first under a new districted system–shook up the primaries for some interesting results. At Town Hall we love a good political debate, so in the spirit of democracy and discussion, we’re teaming up with Seattle Channel to present a series of live debates (with moderated Q&A) for each of the seven districts. Learn more about the candidates running in your district–and don’t forget to vote on November 3. District 3 debate: Kshama Sawant,…
Find out more »Kerry Eleveld: LGBT Rights, and the Power of Advocacy
This summer’s historic Supreme Court ruling upheld same-sex marriage nationwide and, according to veteran journalist Kerry Eleveld, it wouldn’t have been possible without relentless pressure from LGBT advocates. In Don’t Tell Me to Wait, Eleveld (former White House correspondent for The Advocate) chronicles President Obama’s stance on gay rights–from his 2008 definition of marriage as a “sacred union between man and woman”–to his eventual takedown of the Defense of Marriage Act and Don’t Ask Don’t Tell. Eleveld will offer an…
Find out more »Bryan Doerries with David Strathairn and Lili Taylor: The Healing Power of Theater
Theater has the ability to transform lives and heal wounds. From soldiers returning with PTSD and prisoners in solitary confinement, to hospice workers and family members losing loved ones, Bryan Doerries uses ancient Greek tragedies to help others. The Theater of War recounts his experiences presenting “Ajax,” “Prometheus Bound,” “Women of Trachis,” and other ageless works for The Theater of War project (which he founded). He’ll share the lessons he’s learned from adapting and staging these tragedies; and how to…
Find out more »Seattle City Council Debate: District 2 Bruce Harrell and Tammy Morales
This year’s talked-about Seattle City Council elections–the first under a new districted system–shook up the primaries for some interesting results. At Town Hall we love a good political debate, so in the spirit of democracy and discussion, we’re teaming up with Seattle Channel to present a series of live debates (with moderated Q&A) for each of the seven districts. Learn more about the candidates running in your district–and don’t forget to vote on November 3. District 2 debate: Bruce Harrell,…
Find out more »Town Hall and Doctors Without Borders presents: Global Sexual Violence: Breaking the Cycle
Sexual slavery, forced marriage, rape as a weapon of war, everyday fear and neglect: there has never been a more important time to address the global pandemic of sexual violence. Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) field workers treat sexual violence survivors every day, but those who come forward for care are just the tip of the iceberg. The cycle of violence, shame, and fear continues. Join MSF for a discussion about what has been successful and what more needs…
Find out more »Women’s Funding Alliance presents Alicia Garza and Kris Hermanns: Today’s Feminism: Bold and Inclusive Leadership
With Sheryl Sandberg’s Lean In urging, women-led movements and companies are changing the dialogue about feminism on an unprecedented scale. What does modern feminist leadership look like? Alicia Garza, co-founder of #BlackLivesMatter, and Kris Hermanns, Executive Director of Pride Foundation, have a few ideas. They’ll share their wisdom– as two of many women leading the modern feminist movement–through a lens of race, gender, and sexuality. How can women–and men–work together to expand leadership opportunities for women and girls? What does…
Find out more »The Nation’s 150th Anniversary Katrina vanden Heuvel, Naomi Klein, Sherman Alexie, and More
This year marks the 150th anniversary of The Nation, the oldest weekly magazine in the country. By combining cultural commentary, political analysis, and forward-thinking, The Nation’s work has been an outspoken voice on both the best and worst of american political culture since 1865. This celebration brings together all of the themes and people you love from The Nation–many of them former Town Hall speakers–for an eclectic evening of time travel through the magazine’s archives and, through the eyes of…
Find out more »Robert Reich: Repairing America’s Broken Capitalist System
Former U.S. Secretary of Labor Robert Reich (Aftershock, Beyond Outrage) has been offering provocative opinions on the economy for years. In Saving Capitalism, he turns his gaze to the intersection of politics and the economy–and at what point America got it wrong. Reich outlines this broken system–what happened to the free market, where the middle class went, and the highest income inequality the nation has ever seen–and gives counsel on what it will take to fix it. For liberals and…
Find out more »Roberta Kaplan with Dan Savage: DOMA’s Defeat, A New Era of Equality
The Defense of Marriage Act (which legally defined marriage as a union between one man and one woman) barred countless LGBT couples from equal treatment–until it was overturned in 2013. Brought up through the court system by litigator Roberta Kaplan, this decision helped pave the way for last summer’s milestone Supreme Court ruling upholding same-sex marriage. Then Comes Marriage is the story of DOMA’s defeat–how Kaplan crafted a case in support of 40-year couple Edie Windsor and Thea Spyer following…
Find out more »Seattle Arts and Lectures presents: An Evening with Alison Bechdel
The Bechdel test–which highlights gender inequality in the film industry–started as a joke in MacArthur Genius Alison Bechdel’s self-syndicated Dykes to Watch Out For. She never imagined that it would be picked up by the rest of the country–and the world–as a rallying cry for cinematic equality. Bechdel’s penchant for cultural criticism, insightful comics, and genre-bending works is well known. She’ll share inspirations behind some of her mind-blowing stuff, including her most recent graphic novel Are You My Mother? and…
Find out more »Joe Whinney and Debra Music with Hanson Hosein: Theo, Forging a New Chocolate Frontier
Seattle-based Theo Chocolate–the first organic and Fair Trade chocolate factory in the United States–is committed to ethical, sustainable (and delicious) chocolate-making. Founders Joe Whinney and Debra Music set out to create change through their business model–“setting the standards for sustainability in a world that desperately needs ethical agriculture” (Jane Goodall). Their newly-released cookbook Theo Chocolate is an inside look at their favorite recipes and the social justice principles that drive the organization. They’ll appear in conversation with UW’s Hanson Hosein…
Find out more »November 2015
Election Night Watch Party
Come to Town Hall with friends and family for a casual viewing party of the Seattle City Council preliminary election results–with special happy hour prices in our cafe. The evening will feature live results, discussion, and analysis of this unusually eventful local election. Seattle will see a radically transformed city council, as well as results in the significant and controversial Move Seattle transportation levy. This event follows Town Hall’s Great Hall program with Marion Nestle and the Downstairs program with…
Find out more »Patti Smith Book Signing & Reading
Reading, Talk, and Signing with musician/author Patti Smith
Find out more »Elliott Bay Book Company presents: Patti Smith ‘M Train’
Rock ‘n’ Roll legend (and poet and artist) Patti Smith’s 2010 memoir Just Kids–which chronicled her relationship with long-time partner Robert Mapplethorpe–garnered her the National Book Award for its insightful, provocative writing. Now, she’s offering a peek into another defining time in her life. In M Train, which Smith describes as a “roadmap to my life,” she shares the cafes, landscapes, dreams, bungalows, and even the famous graves that have given her inspiration throughout the years. She’ll read excerpts from…
Find out more »Diana Nyad: ‘Find a Way’ to Follow Your Dreams
Endurance swimmer Diana Nyad inspired millions when, at age 64, she became the first person to make the 111-mile swim from Cuba to Florida without a shark cage. Find a Way is her inspiring story of triumph and the story of the personal mantra that kept her going until the very end. She’ll share the lessons she’s learned–the dedication it takes, how you’re never too old to follow dreams, and how everything in life is ultimately a team effort. Learn…
Find out more »December 2015
Deepa Iyer: Eliminating Hate Crimes in Post-9/11 America
Black Lives Matter activists have placed racial justice issues at the forefront of many conversations over the past several months and, according to activist Deepa Iyer, it’s a much-needed reform movement. In We Too Sing America, she focuses on the racial injustices and hate crimes that have shaped the years following 9/11–particularly those affecting South Asian, Arab, Muslim, and Sikh immigrants. From the 2012 Oak Creek, Wisconsin Sikh temple shooting and politicians who make “racist and xenophobic statements that fuel…
Find out more »Seattle Human Rights Day: Kimberlé Crenshaw: Black Lives Matter
This Human Rights Day celebrations puts a spotlight on local organizations and initiatives who are making waves in the community, and places them in context with broader issues happening across America. This year’s program (the city’s 16th annual event!) features a keynote by UCLA and Columbia professor Kimberlé Crenshaw for an exploration of the Black Lives Matter movement and its impacts. Crenshaw, whose course offerings focus on civil rights and critical race studies, is a co-founder of The African American…
Find out more »That Stack of Books Podcast Live: Nancy Pearl, Steve Scher, Katy Sewall
This Seattle-based podcast—which includes Steve Scher (former Town Hall Scholar in Residence), rockstar librarian Nancy Pearl, and newly-appointed Town Hall Program Director Katy Sewall—returns for another evening at Town Hall to talk about a shared love of books. During this live taping of the show, Pearl will help attendees prepare for the holidays by recommending books that make the perfect gift. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the podcast, ask your literary questions, and hear what books the hosts are reading…
Find out more »February 2016
Lush Us: Gay City Arts Showcase featuring Mary Lambert
Gay City Arts presents LUSH US: GAY CITY ARTS SHOWCASE featuring special guest performer Mary Lambert Saturday, Feb 6 / 7pm Town Hall Seattle / 1119 8th Ave General Admission: $25 Gay City is proud to present Lush Us: Gay City Arts Showcase, featuring performances from artists in Gay City Arts Season 3: Queer Revolution and special guest Mary Lambert. Whether you’re long time Gay City Arts fan, or are experiencing it for the first time, be prepared to be…
Find out more »Valentine’s Day Special: A Romantic French Feast and Concert
What better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than with the language—and cuisine—of love? Prior to tonight’s 8:00pm Global Rhythms concert with New York-based Les Chauds Lapins, enjoy a romantic prix fixe dinner in Town Hall’s downstairs. For one night only, the space will be transformed into an intimate dining atmosphere with catering from Chef Kaspar Donier. This French feast features Organic Mixed Greens with Blue Cheese and Hazelnut Brittle; an entree choice of Duck Confit with Mushrooms and Sherry or…
Find out more »June 2016
Hard to Swallow: Racial Justice, Accountability, and the Flint Water Crisis
ACLU staff reporter Curt Guyette has exposed the shocking story of how government actions resulted in the poisoning of the water supply for residents of Flint, Michigan. Curt will share how events unfolded, how racism and the suspension of a democratic process led to the crisis, and the efforts to hold government officials accountable for their misdeeds. Tickets are $5 and available at our website: https://www.aclu-wa.org/flint
Find out more »Scottie Jeanette & Marcy Madden with Status Causey: ‘Getting Back to Me’
Like many late-stage trans women, Scottie Jeanette Madden didn't seem to have any difficulty being a man. Beloved as husband, son, brother, and uncle by her family and well-respected as an adventure survival filmmaker, everything in her life screamed alpha male. In Getting Back to Me: from girl to boy to woman, Madden recounts her journey of love, acceptance, and honesty. In conversation with Seattle-based sex, gender, and relationships educator, Status Causey, the Maddens will discuss their experience as Scottie…
Find out more »July 2016
Alan Cumming Sings Sappy Songs
Dubbed “a bawdy countercultural sprite” by The New York Times, actor and activist Alan Cumming is bringing his renowned talents to Seattle. Well known for his award-winning roles in television shows like The Good Wife and Web Therapy, he is also a Tony Award-winning stage performer (Cabaret). This performance is part of a national tour celebrating his new album, Alan Cumming Sings Sappy Songs, which includes his interpretations of pop hits such as (Billy Joel’s “Goodnight Saigon,” Miley Cyrus’s “The…
Find out more »September 2016
Diana Nyad: Never Too Late to ‘Find a Way’
Back by popular demand, endurance swimmer Diana Nyad will discuss her acclaimed memoir Find a Way, described in New York Times Book Review as “life-affirming … A story about refusing to accept, or be defined by, defeat.” Nyad inspired millions when, at age 64, she became the first person to make the 111-mile swim from Cuba to Florida without a shark cage. After a devastating failed attempt to complete the same swim at 30, Nyad defied all expectations when she…
Find out more »Norm Stamper: ‘How to Fix America’s Police’
Many Americans view cops as racist, brutal, and trigger-happy. For their part, officers feel they are under siege—misunderstood, unfairly criticized, and scapegoated for society’s ills. Is there a fix? Author and Former Seattle Police Chief Norm Stamper believes there is. In his new book To Protect and Serve, Stamper delivers a revolutionary new model for American law enforcement, calling for fundamental changes to the federal government’s role in local policing as well as citizen participation in all aspects of police…
Find out more »Penn Jillette: ‘Presto! How I made Over 100 Pounds Disappear’
As half of the world-famous, Emmy Award-winning duo Penn & Teller, Penn Jillette (God, No! Signs You May Already be an Atheist and Other Magical Tales) has been astonishing audiences with his magical feats for decades. But at 330 pounds, after being hospitalized for high blood pressure, he knew there was no magic trick that could save him. Enter Ray Cronise, a former NASA scientist, with his wild “potato diet.” In Presto, Jillette takes us on his journey from skepticism…
Find out more »Mary Beard: A Revisionist History of Rome
Mary Beard has been described as “outspoken, subversive, controversial, dangerous.” The bestselling author (The Fires of Vesuvius) and renowned classics professor from Cambridge University has become a reluctant celebrity known for challenging accepted historical fallacies and never backing down from a fight. Her newest book SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome explores the genesis of the world’s first superpower, from the foundational myth of Romulus and Remus to 212 C.E.—nearly a thousand years later—when the emperor Caracalla gave Roman citizenship…
Find out more »Mara Wilson: ‘Where Am I Now?’
Former child actress Mara Wilson (Matilda and Mrs. Doubtfire) has always felt out of place: the only child on a film set full of adults; first daughter in a house of boys; and now, as an adult the world still remembers her as a little girl. Wilson’s new book of autobiographical essays tackles everything from losing her mother at a young age, to not being “cute” enough for Hollywood. It’s the story of one young woman’s journey from accidental fame…
Find out more »Presidential Debate Viewing Party
In what has become an election year tradition, Town Hall will host a screening of the first debate of the 2016 presidential season. Join us for what is sure to be a monumental moment in this topsy-turvy campaign cycle. The café will remain open throughout the program, so enjoy a drink and some community as we watch. Edward Wolcher, Town Hall’s community programs curator will host the viewing. Stay and enjoy the following event with Stanford design professors Bill Burnett…
Find out more »2016 Election: How Did We Get Here?
The 2016 election cycle has been one of the most confounding and vitriolic campaign seasons in U.S. history. Bitter divides have formed in both the Republican and Democratic parties. Hillary Clinton made history, as the first American woman to secure the nomination from a major political party. And—perhaps the biggest surprise of all—Donald Trump emerged as the GOP front-runner. What does this climate of instability and change tell us about our country? What are the political and social consequences of…
Find out more »October 2016
Maria Semple: ‘Today Will Be Different’
Maria Semple’s success in writing Where’d You Go, Bernadette, left her with mixed feelings. Believing in a “need to write from a place of almost nausea,” Semple found that getting in touch with that inner pain was tough as a well-liked, best-selling author. So in response, she embarked on a process of getting in touch with the parts of herself that she was most afraid of sharing. Today Will Be Different is the result of that process. Semple says that…
Find out more »Presidential Debate Viewing Party
In keeping with our election year tradition, Town Hall will host a screening of the second debate between our two 2016 major-party presidential candidates. Join us for what is bound to be another monumental moment in this turbulent campaign cycle. The café will remain open throughout the program, so enjoy a drink and some community as we watch. Edward Wolcher, Town Hall’s community programs curator will host the viewing. Town Hall Scholar in Residence, Hanna Brooks Olsen, will also be…
Find out more »Charles Burns: ‘Last Look’
Seattle-raised cartoonist Charles Burns has been described as as “one of the most talented and compelling cartoonists of his generation.” During his 30-plus year career, he has published his distinctively dark idiosyncratic comics in a variety of magazines and graphic novels, including his Harvey Award-winning series "Black Hole." He has also illustrated covers for Time, The New Yorker, and The New York Times Sunday Magazine, and is the cover artist for The Believer. Now he releases his award-winning epic trilogy—"X'ed…
Find out more »Indigenous People’s Day Celebration: ‘Listen to Seattle’
We celebrate our city's third Indigenous Peoples Day by presenting "Listen to Seattle," a performance of stories and music by the Steve Griggs Ensemble. The program remembers the history of Chief Seattle and his continued significance in our region, country, and world. Commissioned through a 4Culture Site-Specific Grant, it premiered at the Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center in 2015. The award-winning ensemble consists of Steve Griggs (saxophone), Jay Thomas (trumpet), Susan Pascal (vibraphone), Phil Sparks (bass), and Milo Petersen (percussion).…
Find out more »Mark Bittman
Celebrated food writer and cookbook author Mark Bittman (How to Cook Everything) believes that food has a critical impact not only on our personal health but on that of the planet. He delivers strong views on a variety of topics including policy, agriculture, health, the environment and, of course, food. His recipes are intended to be accessible to even the newest chefs, offering advice on essential equipment and ingredient substitutions, plus extensive technique illustrations. His newest offering compiles more than…
Find out more »Stephen Tobolowsky with David Chen: ‘The Tobolowsky Files’
Best known for roles like Ned Ryerson in "Groundhog Day," Sammy Jankis in "Memento," and Sandy Ryerson on "Glee," legendary character actor Stephen Tobolowsky is also a master storyteller. In "The Tobolowsky Files," he shares a series of short stories about life, love, and the entertainment industry. Both funny and moving, his compelling tales involve plenty of big names, including famous directors like Paul Verhoeven, Harold Ramis, Christopher Nolan, and Spike Jonze, just to name a few. See him perform…
Find out more »Ralph Nader: Breaking Through Power
Named by "The Atlantic" as one of the hundred most influential figures in American history, and by "Time" and "Life" magazines as one of the most influential Americans of the twentieth century, Ralph Nader has fought for safer cars, healthier food, better air, cleaner water, and safer work environments for more than four decades. Nader's new book, "Breaking Through Power," draws from a lifetime waging—and often winning—David vs. Goliath battles against big corporations and the U.S. government. Highlighting the success…
Find out more »Jane Alexander: Wild Things, Wild Places
Jane Alexander is a veteran actress, author, and former chairperson of the National Endowment of the Arts. With her newest book, she gives voice to her work as a longtime, impassioned wildlife activist and conservationist. Offering a keen grasp of the vastly changing world of wildlife, Alexander outlines the critical efforts of scientists and conservationists to protect the planet’s most endangered species from extinction. Hear her story of immersion into the world of wildlife conservation, traveling to the most remote…
Find out more »November 2016
Election Watch Party
Join us at Town Hall for our traditional election viewing party. The bar will be open throughout and a panel of local journalists and political experts will be on hand to guide us through national and local news. This is the end of a historic, expectation-defying election season with much at stake on all levels of government. Let’s take it all in together!
Find out more »The Seattle Moth GrandSLAM
The Moth is dedicated to finding intriguing people to tell inspired stories. The Moth GrandSLAM is the culmination of 10 monthly StorySLAMs around Seattle, with StorySLAM winners joining together in what’s sure to be a fierce, hilarious, heartbreaking storytelling competition. In typical Moth fashion, the winner of the GrandSLAM will be chosen by guest judges from the audience. As one Moth member puts it,“The Moth reminds me how fascinating, brave, complex, and fragile we are. We have so much in…
Find out more »WYNK: Marina Abramović
This will be a moderated interview with Marina Abramović on the occasion of her new memoir, Walk Through Walls. Moderator tba. Since the beginning of her career in Belgrade during the early 1970s, Marina Abramović has pioneered performance as a visual art form, creating some of the most important early works. The body has always been both her subject and medium. Exploring her physical and mental limits in works that ritualize the simple actions of everyday life, she has withstood…
Find out more »David France: ‘How to Survive a Plague’
In 1987, as the AIDS epidemic grew dramatically, a group of HIV-affected individuals mobilized against a system that seemed to have abandoned them. David France has documented the powerful story of this ultimately successful battle to halt the epidemic and the inspiring stories of the gay activists and advocates who confronted widespread fear and prejudice to demand action from their government officials and health providers. Based on France’s Oscar-nominated documentary of the same name, this definitive history highlights extraordinary characters:…
Find out more »December 2016
How the Light Gets In: A Celebration of Leonard Cohen
This event is sold out. A limited number of standby line tickets may be available night-of. After this last year, and these recent weeks, many of us are consciously seeking community, and guidance on how to move forward in a world that seems riven by loss. Leonard Cohen passed away on November 7, the night before the election and just weeks after the release of his latest record "You Want it Darker." His work is shot through with themes of…
Find out more »January 2017
City of Seattle presents MLK Unity Day
In late November Mayor Ed Murray signed an executive order protecting Seattle’s status as a “Sanctuary City” for immigrants. In this, and many other ways, our city stands as a beacon for human rights and social justice. At a time when the civil rights of many communities seem threatened, come celebrate the City of Seattle’s third annual MLK Unity Day. This year’s event features activist Angela Davis speaking about Martin Luther King Jr. and the civil rights he championed. There…
Find out more »Writers Resist: A Celebration of Free Speech
On Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, as part of a nationwide series of readings celebrating American ideals of freedom and equality, 14 writers will read excerpts from their own work and the writings of other American thinkers concerned with freedom of speech, such as MLK, himself, Susan B. Anthony, Frederick Douglass, Thomas Paine, Angela Y. Davis, James Welch, Susan Sontag, Malcolm X, Cesar Chavez and Adrienne Rich. A discussion will follow, and the bar will stay open. Participating writers include:…
Find out more »‘Blabbermouth’ Live: with Dan Savage and Eli Sanders
A live, pre-inauguration taping of Blabbermouth, the popular weekly podcast from The Stranger. Internationally syndicated advice columnist Dan Savage, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Eli Sanders, and special guests will talk about how to face the looming Trump presidency. They’ll also take your questions, share in your dread, and offer some reasons to be hopeful (or, if not hopeful, then at least double-determined to resist).
Find out more »Planned Parenthood presents Post-Election Town Hall
Planned Parenthood has reserved Seattle Town Hall on the night of the inauguration, Friday, January 20, 2017. Community leaders, partners, organizers, and the public are invited to join us for a panel discussion of the impact the new administration may have on our progressive work together here in the Northwest. Doors open, 5PM VIP Reception, 6PM Program, 7PM
Find out more »Inauguration Panel Discussion
Planned Parenthood has reserved Seattle Town Hall on the night of the inauguration, Friday, January 20, 2017. Community leaders, partners, organizers, and the public are invited to join us for a panel discussion of the impact the new administration may have on our progressive work together here in the Northwest. Please share broadly, join if you can, and please let us know of other organizations which may be interested in co-sponsoring or joining the panel.
Find out more »Stolen Youth presents: Boys Count
Uncovering the Sexual Exploitation and Trafficking of Boys and Young Men Research suggests that boys and young men may be trafficked at the same rate as girls and young women, yet we have often failed to recognize them for the victims that they are. Why aren’t exploited boys recognized? How can we better identify and appropriately serve male victims? Join Stolen Youth and a panel of experts to explore these and other important questions. The purpose of this event is…
Find out more »Prabhjot Singh: Bringing Healthcare to Every Neighborhood
Dr. Prabhjot Singh is on a mission to makes healthcare more accessible. His “a-ha moment” came as he attended the funeral of one of his patients where he saw the man in context of his life and community, rather than the bare facts included on his chart. Singh realized that this man’s death had been the result of the collective failure of many systems—education, mental health, neighborhood safety, job placement, veteran support. In Dying and Living in the Neighborhood, Singh…
Find out more »February 2017
Presidential Power in 2017
Any transition of presidential power raises a host of important questions: How much power does a President have? In what ways will an incoming President exercise that control? How, if at all, can individuals participate in the political process once the election is over? The University of Washington School of Law invites members of the public to join a panel of scholars to discuss the scope of presidential power in modern politics; plans that President-Elect Trump has for exercising that…
Find out more »SAL presents: A Conversation with the Parents of Trayvon Martin
Marking five years since Trayvon Martin was killed, his grieving parents offer an inside look at their son’s life, his struggles, his tragic death and the transformative—and still building—movement for justice and healing that grew from their tragedy. Rest in Power: The Enduring Life of Trayvon Martin by Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin tells the story of their son and what his death has meant for them personally and for the culture and politics of our country.
Find out more »March 2017
The Harms of Prostitution: Voices from the Sex Trade
Evidence suggests that people in the sex trade may be just as endangered by law enforcement and well meaning anti-trafficking organizations as they are by bad management and predators. How do our laws affect people who are in the sex trade, whether by choice, force, or circumstance? What are the ways in which laws addressing sex trafficking harm they people they’re mean to protect? Join our panel of advocacy experts and people with related experience to explore these and other…
Find out more »Town Hall with Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal
This will be the first in a series of public meetings in Washington’s 7th district (which includes most of Seattle and many surrounding areas) and will feature newly elected Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, who has been leading the fight to make the democrats an “opposition party”, not a minority party. She will speak about her work in congress and answer audience questions.
Find out more »Sandbox Radio presents: In Like a Lion
Seattle-based Sandbox Radio recreates the classic radio variety show with a local twist. This all-new episode, "In Like a Lion," features a piece by staff writer Lisa Halpern inspired by her experience at the Women’s March in D.C., a poem by popular Seattle actor and Sandbox Radio Player Charles Leggett, “Fables For Our Time” adapted from James Thurber and much more, all scored with live music and sound effects. With guests Opera On Tap performing the finale of Mozart’s “Marriage…
Find out more »The Moth presents: The Seattle Moth GrandSLAM
The Moth is dedicated to finding intriguing people to tell captivating stories. The Moth GrandSLAM is the culmination of 10 monthly StorySLAMs around Seattle, with StorySLAM winners joining together for a fierce, hilarious, heartbreaking storytelling competition. In typical Moth fashion, the winner of the GrandSLAM will be chosen by guest judges from the audience. As one Moth member puts it,“The Moth reminds me how fascinating, brave, complex, and fragile we are. We have so much in common, yet every StorySLAM…
Find out more »April 2017
An Evening with Alec Baldwin
Join SAL for an unforgettable evening with actor and comedian Alec Baldwin. He is known for his roles in many popular films including "Beetlejuice," "Glengarry Glen Ross," and "The Departed;" his wildly popular character Jack Donaghy on Tina Fey’s irreverent series, "30 Rock;" and, of course, for his most recent portrayal of Donald Trump on SNL. This event will celebrate Baldwin’s new memoir, "Nevertheless," to be released on April 4, 2017. All orders (except Student) include the book. In this…
Find out more »Plymouth Church UCC, Seattle presents Anne Lamott
“Mercy is radical kindness,” writes Anne Lamott in her new book Hallelujah Anyway: Rediscovering Mercy. A prolific author of memoir and fiction, Lamott writes about all sorts of things: family, writing, addiction, and faith. But much of her work revolves around the themes of recovery and redemption. Her personal essays are known for being revelatory, insightful, and relatable. She will read from her book and share stories from her experience. A portion of the proceeds from this event will benefit…
Find out more »May 2017
Hedrick Smith: Aftershocks of the Populist Earthquake of 2016
November 2016 brought a political earthquake, and our country is still feeling the aftershocks. Far from the usual polar clash of left vs. right, conservative vs. liberal, Republican vs. Democrat, it was the most dramatic populist rebellion in American politics since the election of Andrew Jackson, and both major parties were shaken by mass mutinies against “the power elite.” Hedrick Smith, a Pulitzer Prize-winning former New York Times reporter, returns to Town Hall to consider whether President Trump and the…
Find out more »Sandbox Radio presents: Mayday! Mayday!
Featuring many of Seattle’s most talented and beloved theatrical artists and musicians, Sandbox Radio recreates the classic radio variety show recorded in front of a live audience. This episode features a performance by the Dragon Baby herself, Sarah Porkalob; a story written and performed by writer and composer Scott Warrender; an appearance by superstar librarian (and Sandbox Radio favorite) Nancy Pearl; and much more! Produced, directed and hosted by Leslie Law and Richard Ziman, with music direction by Angie Louise…
Find out more »Seattle Womxn Marching Forward presents Community Convergence
In solidarity with over five million participants worldwide, 175,000 Seattleites gathered on January 21 to march in defense of our rights to safety, health, and families—recognizing that vibrant and diverse communities are the strength of our country. Organizers of the Womxn’s March on Seattle, now called Seattle Womxn Marching Forward, invite you to a night of community building and action planning to continue the momentum of resistance and self-determination. Experience a lively round of local-focused lightening talks with community leaders,…
Find out more »A Conversation with Jeffrey Tambor
You know him from his breakout role as Hank Kingsley from "The Larry Sanders Show," his outrageous turn as George Bluth on "Arrested Development," and his Emmy Award-winning performance as Maura Pfefferman on "Transparent." A Broadway star, a television legend, an accomplished screen actor whose singular wit and heartrending performances have been entertaining audiences for more than four decades, but the question remains: who is Jeffrey Tambor? Tambor endeavors to answer this question, and many more, in his new book…
Find out more »June 2017
Sherman Alexie: ‘You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me’
Beloved Northwest author Sherman Alexie is known for placing his own distinctive stamp on literature. Much of his work draws on his experience as an indigenous American with ancestry from several tribes. One of four children, he grew up in poverty on a Spokane-area Indian reservation raised by alcoholic parents. When his mother passed away at the age of 78, Alexie responded the only way he knew how. He wrote. His highly anticipated new memoir, featuring 78 poems, 78 essays,…
Find out more »Al Franken: ‘Al Franken, Giant of the Senate’
Harvard-graduated U.S. Senator Al Franken has served as an outspoken congressman for his home state of Minnesota since 2008, but many of us know him best from his days making us laugh as Stuart Smalley, among others, on Saturday Night Live. In his new memoir, Senator Franken shares the story of an award-winning comedian who decided to run for office and then discovered why award-winning comedians tend not to do that. He takes his fans along with him from SNL…
Find out more »Sub Pop in the Great Hall
This event is a part of GROUNDBREAK. Groundbreakers at the $50 level get two reserved seats and admission to a private preshow reception. Sub Pop Records, an independent label founded in 1988 by Bruce Pavitt and Jonathan Poneman, has represented some of Seattle’s most well-known musical artists. Introducing the work of bands like Nirvana, Mudhoney, and Soundgarden, the label helped launch the grunge movement and they’ve been presenting groundbreaking artists ever since. Current Sub Pop acts include Beach House, Fleet…
Find out more »May 2019
John Waters – Mr. Know It All SOLD OUT!!!!
THIS EVENT HAS SOLD OUT! No one knows more about everything—especially everything rude, clever, and offensively compelling—than John Waters. He joins us for a discussion of his new book Mr. Know-It-All: The Tarnished Wisdom of a Filth Elder. Town Hall invites you to a conversation with Waters that spans the breadth of his incredible and eclectic knowledge, fielding questions of every variety and exploring the idiosyncrasies of life. In Mr. Know-It-All, he offers insight on everything under the sun: how…
Find out more »June 2019
Reimagining Gay Men’s Lives – Walt Odets @ Town Hall
It goes without saying that even today, it’s not easy to be gay in America. While young gay men often come out more readily, even those from the most progressive of backgrounds still struggle with the legacy of early-life stigma and a deficit of self-acceptance, which can fuel doubt, regret, and self-loathing. Clinical psychologist Walt Odets joins us with insight from his book Out Of The Shadows: Reimagining Gay Men’s Lives, reflecting on what it means for these individuals to…
Find out more »July 2019
Mueller Report Live
A marathon reading of the Mueller Report in its entirety (including redactions). For 24 hours, members of the community will read the Special Counsel’s report verbatim. Friday July 19th through Saturday July 20th, 8:00PM to 8:00PM. Party to follow Saturday evening.
Find out more »September 2019
Labor Day with Robert Reich and Pramila Jayapal
What steps can we take in order to better our country by protecting the common interest of our workers? Former U.S. Secretary of Labor Robert Reich arrives at Town Hall along with Washington’s 7th District Representative Pramila Jayapal for a Labor Day exploration of Reich’s latest book The Common Good. They offer their perspective on the state of American politics and the labor movement, and unpack Reich’s powerful case for the expansion of America’s moral imagination. Rooting his argument in…
Find out more »Suzan-Lori Parks Town Hall Takeover
Suzan-Lori Parks Town Hall Takeover Three unique events from an award-winning playwright We’re throwing open the doors of our newly renovated building for a full-day takeover by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Suzan-Lori Parks! First at 2PM she occupies the Forum with an installment of her meta-theatrical performance Watch Me Work—an interactive meditation on the creative process. Suzan works in real time on a writing project and invites the audience to watch, or even choose to share the space and get some…
Find out more »Sow Queer – Artist In Residence Showcase
Town Hall’s Artist-In-Residence HATLO is a Seattle-based queer performance maker and artistic collaborator. They invite us to join them and dozens of their fellow performance makers at this public showcase of works-in-progress. Hatlo believes that their capacity to continue working in this city is deeply entwined with the well-being, survival, innovation and imagination of Seattle’s many queer art-making communities. Their new project, Sow Queer, brings a diverse group of queer performance-makers to Town Hall for 6 weeks of subversive-is-sacred-sunday gatherings,…
Find out more »Gina Rippon – The Myth of the Gendered Brain
For decades, if not centuries, science has backed up society’s simple dictum that the brains of men and women are hardwired differently. However, acclaimed professor of neuroimaging Gina Rippon offers new research that suggests that this idea of the brain is little more than “neurotrash.” Rippon arrives at Town Hall with insight from her book Gender and Our Brains to challenge this damaging myth. She reveals how the scientific community has engendered bias and stereotype by rewarding studies that show…
Find out more »TUF Art Collective Showcase
Explore and reimagine what space means in Seattle’s rapidly transforming socio-environmental landscape in this immersive and interactive evening with TUF, the Seattle collective that focuses on uplifting marginalized folks including people of color, women, queer, trans, and gender nonconforming identities. Artists from across multiple disciplines take the stage for a showcase of art, dialogue, and performances that investigate crucial questions about our city. How do we build the spaces that we want to live in? Why is space needed in…
Find out more »Hot Takes w/ Hot Dykes at Town Hall Seattle
Clara Pluton and Val Nigro are stand-up comedians, radio hosts, and real-life lesbian lovers dishing out the sapphic dirt! They join us at Town Hall for a LIVE taping of their co-hosted podcast Hot Takes with Hot Dykez, diving into queer fantasia interpreted through a modern lens. They encourage us to push ourselves to reinterpret, reassess, and reanalyze dyke culture that has been left before us. As they say, “nothing exists in a vacuum and y’all know we love to…
Find out more »Jonathan Safran Foer with Steve Scher
Will future generations distinguish between those who didn’t believe in the science of climate change and those who said they accepted the science but didn’t act? And for those who do accept the reality of human-caused climate change, what does immediate action look like? Author Jonathan Safran Foer takes Town Hall’s stage to explore this central dilemma of our time in a surprising, creative, and urgent new way. He’s joined onstage in conversation with legendary local journalist and radio host…
Find out more »Seattle City Council District 3 Debate
Seattle City Council District 3 Debate with Kshama Sawant and Egan Orion Thursday, September 26, 2019 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. (doors open at 5:00 pm) Town Hall Seattle FREE Join us for a free and public debate for Seattle City Council with Kshama Sawant and Egan Orion. The debate will be moderated by a journalist from KING-5 with additional questions by reporters with KUOW-FM and KOMO-4. About City Council Debates CityClub's series of free public debates put Seattle City…
Find out more »November 2019
StolenYouth’s Town Hall – The Vulnerability Pipeline
StolenYouth hosts a ‘town hall’ each year to raise awareness about the growing problem of child sex trafficking in our region. In King County alone, more than 600 children and youth are bought and sold for sex annually, some as young as 11 years old. This year, StolenYouth’s Town Hall will focus on the links between foster care, homelessness and child sex trafficking. Speakers include Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) Secretary Ross Hunter, Dr. Melinda Giovengo,…
Find out more »December 2019
Sandbox Radio: Journey’s End
Seattle Chief of Police CARMEN BEST drops into Sandbox Radio’s biggest show of the year – chock full of music, stories, comedy and the hottest performers in town on New Year’s Eve Eve, December 30th at 7:30pm at The Forum at Town Hall Seattle! “Crackling…electrifying…fresh, joyful and awesome.” — (The Stranger) Ring in the New Year with Town Hall Seattle and Sandbox Radio: JOURNEY’S END, the latest installment of Seattles own radio variety show recorded LIVE! for podcast. Join producers…
Find out more »February 2020
Exploring The History Of Our Pronouns – Dennis Baron
Like trigger warnings and gender-neutral bathrooms, pronouns are sparking a national debate. They’re prompting new policies in schools, workplaces, and even prisons. Pioneering linguist Dennis Baron joins us with insight into our pronoun patterns, drawing from his book What’s Your Pronoun: Beyond He and She. Baron lends us essential insight into understanding how twenty-first-century culture has evolved based on past pronoun use—and how our modern day usage is nothing new. He highlights how Shakespeare used singular-they; women invoked the generic…
Find out more »Showtunes 20th Anniversary Fundraising Gala
SHOWTUNES 20TH ANNIVERSARY FUNDRAISING GALA - 2/22/20 VIP: 6:30P, General Admission: 7:00P, Show: 8:00P All General Admission Tickets ONLY $20! | VIP Tickets - $100.00 One of the best kept secrets in Seattle Theatre, Showtunes is celebrating all that we’ve accomplished together: every audience member, actor, musician, technician, production team member, donor, volunteer, and board member – and we want YOU to be there! Join us for a fabulous night of laughter, music, memories and surprises! Featuring David Silverman with…
Find out more »June 2022
Ceasar Hart Drag Culture: Beyond Entertainment @ Town Hall
Typically held at bars and nightclubs, drag is a form of entertainment in which a performer uses clothing and makeup to impersonate a particular gender identity, usually of the opposite sex. Yet drag is so much more than nightclub entertainment — it provides community, instills self-confidence, and can even save lives. Join drag king performer Ceasar Hart and explore the history of drag culture and why it is so important for many in the LGBTQ+ community. Discover the impact of…
Find out more »May 2023
Cabaret: BLEAK! Songs for the Not-Quite End of the World @ Town Hall
Seattle Treasures Return Home with May Day Anti-Capitalist Satire in: BLEAK! Songs for the Not-Quite End of the World Presented with support from Scandiuzzi Krebs Who: John Coons & Matt Aument Where: Town Hall Seattle - 1119 8th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101 When: May 1st, 2023 @ 8pm Tickets: Single tickets $25; VIP $55 https://scandiuzzikrebs.com/bleak. Seattle, WA – April 3, 2023 – Cabaret duo John Coons & Matt Aument invite you to escape the barren hellscape of your life…
Find out more »Seattle Women’s Chorus presents We Got the Beat @ Town Hall Seattle
Girl groups and sister acts topped the charts since Billboard Hot 100 began. From the Go-Go’s infectious beats to the Spice Girls’ “girl power” anthems, these vocal groups created the intoxicating soundtrack to love, life, and social change. Seattle Women’s Chorus celebrates these powerhouse pop legends. Featuring songs from the biggest ensembles to grace the charts, including Stop! In the Name of Love, Cruel Summer, Wide Open Spaces, and Survivor. Timeless tunes will get every generation moving to We Got the Beat. Presented by Seattle…
Find out more »Seattle Women’s Chorus presents We Got the Beat @ Town Hall Seattle
Girl groups and sister acts topped the charts since Billboard Hot 100 began. From the Go-Go’s infectious beats to the Spice Girls’ “girl power” anthems, these vocal groups created the intoxicating soundtrack to love, life, and social change. Seattle Women’s Chorus celebrates these powerhouse pop legends. Featuring songs from the biggest ensembles to grace the charts, including Stop! In the Name of Love, Cruel Summer, Wide Open Spaces, and Survivor. Timeless tunes will get every generation moving to We Got the Beat. Presented by Seattle…
Find out more »Chasten Buttigieg In Conversation with Naomi Ishisaka @ Town Hall Seattle
I Have Something to Tell You — Growing Up Different in Small-Town America Growing up, Chasten Glezman Buttigieg didn’t always fit in. He felt different from his father and brothers, who loved to hunt and go camping in the rural, conservative small town where he lived. Back then, blending in was more important than feeling seen. So, when Chasten realized he was gay, he kept that part of himself hidden away for a long, painful time. With incredible bravery, and…
Find out more »