A soaring wall of windows reaches toward the sky. Celestial constellations beam from the ceiling high above. Subtle geometry underfoot mimics a star map. Welcome to Federal Way’s new star, the Performing Arts & Event Center.
A glossy, modern white bar beckons from the corner. Behind, the bold contrast of maroon, a rich signature color of the center, invites guests down intimate passageways leading to the theater. Tall bamboo panels flanking one side are grand yet airy, featuring laser cutouts that illuminate pattern and shadow all around.
The vaulted theater is understated Northwest-style majesty with plush, velvety seats the color of silver sage. Two tiers of seating are nestled into a finely tuned acoustic work of art—a 716-seat theater that is warm and inviting yet daring and dramatic.
The PAEC is a multipurpose venue designed to host theater, music, dance, art and spoken-word performances. Adjoining event spaces can host more than 400 for gala seating, or be transformed into settings ideal for conferences, seminars, meetings and weddings. The exclusive green room cantilevers over the main lobby. Majestic mountain views are abundant from the PAEC’s perch above the city, an enchanting backdrop for striking event photographs.
The entire building is soundproofed, a dream for overlapping events and seamless transitions. For patrons with hearing loss, the advanced hearing loop system throughout the theater puts the presentation directly into their ears. The radically accessible space offers up to 40 handicapped-accessible theater seats.
The center is a hybrid: equal parts theater and conference center. Meeting rooms and even the lobby are flexible spaces, transforming to meet event needs. The latest in audiovisual equipment is ready to support any performance or presentation. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout.
The 46,000-square-foot Performing Arts & Event Center and four-acre site feature an outdoor plaza that connects with the recently completed Town Center Park. These provide new spaces for the community to gather and pedestrian access to the surrounding area. Ample free parking awaits as well.
The prominent downtown location is surrounded by a variety of dining and shopping opportunities. Future plans call for a 125-unit hotel next to the center, with groundbreaking expected later this year. Meanwhile, major hotels are just blocks away.
The center’s premier location in South King County, just 20 minutes south of Sea-Tac Airport, is ideal for business, educational, social, charitable and private events.
After decades of planning and fundraising, a true citywide effort, this new symbol of urban vitality in Federal Way is intended to establish a community focal point, bridge the Seattle and South Sound regions, and make the arts accessible to everyone. Officially opened August 2017, the Federal Way Performing Arts & Events Center is quickly becoming a home for events in the greater Puget Sound area.
