Kenyon Hall
Kenyon Hall is a historic performance hall in West Seattle with a one-of-a-kind personality. It is run by the nonprofit Seattle Artists whose motto is to engage the artist in anyone and inspire the arts in everyone. Concerts and cabaret and silent films and storytelling nights all share its small stage.
The Story Behind the Hall
The building opened in 1916 as the Olympic Heights Social Hall. Seattle Artists has owned it since 1993. For decades longtime operator Lou Magor kept the hall alive through lean years and he became something of a local hero. After his passing volunteers Murphy Janssen and Nick Shadel stepped up to co-direct the hall. They describe it as artist focused rather than profit focused and they offer performers free demo recordings and mentoring.
The Mighty Wurlitzer
The hall's signature feature is a 1929 Wurlitzer theater organ. It is built around a double manual console with dozens of instruments set into the walls and it is rare to find one like it on the West Coast. The organ still accompanies silent films on movie nights.
The Vibe
Kenyon Hall seats about 110 people so every show feels up close. Even Eddie Vedder once played a sold-out show here. The crowd is friendly and neighborly and the seating makes it a true listening room.
Monthly Open Mic
Singer-songwriters are welcome on the third Friday of every month. Doors and sign-up are at 6:00 PM and performances start at 6:30 PM. The open mic is presented with The El and it is free and all ages and seated.
More Music
The calendar includes classical ensembles and contemporary musicians and cabaret nights along with Pocket Sessions instrumental jams and free jazz jams. The Improv Kerfuffle and the West Seattle Story Slam bring comedy and storytelling. Seattle Artists also runs a music school program and the hall is available to rent.
Good to Know
Kenyon Hall is at 7904 35th Avenue SW in West Seattle WA 98126. Call (206) 937-3613 or email kenyon@kenyonhall.org and check kenyonhall.org for the calendar. Schedules can change so confirm with the venue or host before heading out.
