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The Heart of Seattle's Performing Arts: Cornish Playhouse

4.7 (246)

Discover the Cornish Playhouse in Seattle — a premier destination for performing arts, showcasing diverse productions in a stunning historic venue.

Nestled in the vibrant Queen Anne neighborhood of Seattle, the Cornish Playhouse is a must-visit destination for theater lovers and tourists alike. With its rich history and dedication to the performing arts, this theater offers a unique glimpse into Seattle's cultural scene. Experience a variety of performances, from innovative plays to captivating musicals, all within a stunning architectural backdrop that is both historic and modern.

A brief summary to Cornish Playhouse

Local tips

  • Arrive early to enjoy the theater's architecture and grab a good seat.
  • Check the schedule for student performances for a unique and affordable experience.
  • Explore nearby Queen Anne for local dining options before or after the show.
  • Consider attending a matinee for a more relaxed experience with smaller crowds.
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Getting There

  • Public Transit

    From downtown Bellevue, walk to the Bellevue Transit Center located at 110th Ave NE & NE 6th St. Take the Sound Transit bus route 542 towards Seattle. After approximately 25 minutes, get off at the 'Westlake Station' stop in Seattle. From there, transfer to the Seattle Center Monorail and ride it to the 'Seattle Center' stop. Once you disembark, walk southeast on 2nd Ave towards Mercer St. Turn left onto Mercer St and walk for about 3 minutes. The Cornish Playhouse will be on your right at 201 Mercer St.

  • Walking

    If you are in the Bellevue city center, you can walk to the Bellevue Transit Center. From there, take the Sound Transit bus route 542 to get to Seattle. Once you arrive at Westlake Station, you can either take the Monorail to Seattle Center or walk to it, which is about a 15-minute walk. After reaching Seattle Center, head southeast on 2nd Ave, turn left onto Mercer St, and walk for about 3 minutes until you reach the Cornish Playhouse at 201 Mercer St.

  • Bicycle

    If you prefer to bike, you can rent a bike from a local bike share program in Bellevue. Start from downtown Bellevue and head towards the Lake Washington Boulevard trail. Follow the trail, which will lead you towards Seattle. Once you reach the Seattle waterfront, navigate towards the Seattle Center area. Park your bike at a designated bike rack near the Cornish Playhouse, located at 201 Mercer St. This ride may take around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your speed.

Discover more about Cornish Playhouse

The Cornish Playhouse stands as a beacon of creativity and artistic expression in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood. Originally built in the early 20th century, this performing arts theater has evolved into a prominent venue that hosts a diverse range of performances, showcasing local talent and renowned artists alike. Visitors can expect an eclectic mix of productions, from classic plays to contemporary works, reflecting the dynamic spirit of Seattle’s arts community. The theater’s stunning architecture provides a beautiful setting for any performance, and its intimate atmosphere allows audiences to connect deeply with the art on stage. Beyond the performances, the Cornish Playhouse is also an integral part of the Cornish College of the Arts, fostering a nurturing environment for budding artists and theater professionals. The theater often features student-led productions, giving visitors an opportunity to witness the fresh perspectives and innovative ideas of the next generation of performers. For those interested in the behind-the-scenes aspect of theater, occasional workshops and discussions are hosted, inviting audiences to engage more deeply with the performing arts. As part of your visit, take the time to explore the surrounding Queen Anne neighborhood, which offers charming shops, delightful cafes, and picturesque views of the Seattle skyline. Whether you're a die-hard theater enthusiast or a casual visitor seeking a unique cultural experience, the Cornish Playhouse promises an enriching and memorable outing in the heart of Seattle’s vibrant arts scene.

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