Theatre
Pacific Northwest Ballet
Seattle, WA, United States·Est. 1972·2,890 seats
ballet
321 Mercer Street, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
Pacific Northwest Ballet, one of America's most prestigious ballet companies, performs at Marion Oliver McCaw Hall, a landmark Seattle Center venue that has evolved from its 1928 origins as the Civic Auditorium through a transformative $127 million renovation in 2003. The company, founded in 1972 and now independent since 1977, is celebrated for its world-class dancers, distinguished orchestra, and commitment to both classical and contemporary repertoire. McCaw Hall's intimate 2,890-seat auditorium, redesigned by LMN Architects, preserves the building's renowned acoustics while offering exceptional sightlines and a sophisticated cultural experience.
The Experience
Acoustics, seating, and what to expect
Acoustics
4.5/ 5
McCaw Hall's 2003 renovation, overseen by acoustics firm Jaffe Holden, preserved the building's renowned acoustics while improving sightlines and intimacy. The auditorium excels for ballet and opera performances, though historically offered variable acoustics for symphony orchestras.
Best Seats
Orchestra and Pit sections offer proximity to the stage; rows H and beyond on the main floor provide better rake and sightlines than the flat rows A-G. First and Second Tier boxes (particularly A, E, AA, EE) offer unique elevated perspectives of both dancers and orchestra. Second Tier center sections provide excellent value with strong views.
Dress Code
Varies by Event
Visitor Guide
Tickets, pricing, and getting there
Getting There
Seattle Center Monorail (Westlake Station); Metro Bus lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 13, 15, 16, 24, 33, 62, C Line
Around the Venue
Plan your visit — dining, transit, and performer resources nearby
Plan Your Visit
Seattle
2 dining, 1 cafés
Seattle Opera House
Book well in advance for pre-show dinners; allow 2 hours and plan your arrival 3 hours before curtain at nearby venues.
Dinner only; closed Sundays and Mondays
Capitol Hill venues
No reservations; arrive 45 minutes before curtain at nearby theatres for a quick, satisfying pre-show meal.
Open daily from 11:30 AM
- Le Panier Au Chocolat$
Benaroya Hall
Perfect for a morning coffee and croissant before a matinee; just a 10-minute walk from Benaroya Hall.
Open early; closes by 6 PM most days
Green Room — Seattle
Performer City Guide
1 practice spaces, 1 music stores, 1 vocal coaches
- Emerald City Music Studio
Well-maintained acoustics, flexible studio configurations, and accommodating rental rates.
Book studios in advance during festival seasons; the space is popular with local opera singers and ballet rehearsal groups.
Daily rental availability; extended hours by arrangement
- Schmitt MusicWebsite
Quality instruments, extensive sheet music inventory, and repair services.
Staff can recommend local luthiers and repair specialists; ask about group discounts for ensemble members.
Open weekdays and Saturdays
- Voice Matters Studio
Expert voice coaching for operatic repertoire and audition preparation.
Book coaches experienced in your specific genre; many Seattle Opera singers are trained here.
By appointment; flexible scheduling
- Seattle Wellness & Movement Center
Injury prevention, performance optimization, and therapies tailored for dancers and singers.
Many Pacific Northwest Ballet and Seattle Opera performers maintain regular sessions here; book Pilates classes specifically designed for performers.
Daily sessions; appointment required
Open city guidePatron
Venue Details
Architect
LMN Architects (2003 renovation); original 1928 Civic Auditorium architect unknown
Architecture
Contemporary reinterpretation of classical theater forms; features five-story glass wall, sculptural scrims, and multi-colored light compositions in the lobby
Heritage
Historic building (originally Civic Auditorium, 1928; Seattle Opera House, 1962); no specific UNESCO or national landmark designation confirmed
Resident Company
Pacific Northwest Ballet
Organization
McCaw Hall
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