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First Interstate Center For The Arts - Spokane's Premier Stage

Jacques Herman

For anyone who loves a good show, or just wants to catch some truly memorable live performances, there's a special spot right in the heart of Spokane. This place, which many know as the First Interstate Center for the Arts, has a long and interesting story, going back quite a ways to a big event in the city's past. It's a real cornerstone for entertainment here, offering up all sorts of experiences, from big Broadway productions to concerts with some very well-known acts. You know, it's pretty much the main place for exciting events in the whole Spokane area.

This venue, which is owned and looked after by the Spokane Public Facilities District, has seen a lot of changes over the years. It was once called the INB Performing Arts Center, and before that, it went by names like the Washington State Pavilion Opera House and the Spokane Opera House. So, it's had quite a few identities, but its purpose has always been about bringing people together for something special. It's really something to see how it has grown and changed, yet still keeps its original spirit, you know?

The building itself is quite striking, a sort of lasting reminder from the 1974 World's Fair. It sits right in the middle of downtown, right by the lovely Spokane River, just a stone's throw from Riverfront Park. This spot, is that, really a perfect setting for a place that hosts so many amazing gatherings. After a rather big update, a $22 million project, it opened its doors again in November of 2018, ready to welcome visitors with a refreshed look and feel. It's a place that tends to be a hub of activity, always offering something new to see or hear.

Table of Contents

History and Transformation

The First Interstate Center for the Arts holds a significant place in Spokane's cultural story. Its roots go way back to the 1974 World's Fair, which was a really important moment for the city. This building, you see, is a direct link to that time, a sort of permanent reminder of that big global event. Over the years, it has gone through a few name changes, each marking a different period in its existence. It was once known as the Washington State Pavilion Opera House, then later became the Spokane Opera House, and more recently, many people knew it as the INB Performing Arts Center. These different titles, you know, sort of show its steady evolution as a gathering spot for artistic performances.

A very significant moment in its recent past was the big renovation it underwent. This project, which cost a considerable $22 million, completely refreshed the space. It was a major undertaking, aiming to bring the historic building up to modern standards while keeping its original charm. After all that work, the doors opened once more in November of 2018, welcoming everyone back to a much-improved setting. This transformation, you could say, helped solidify its standing as the top spot for live entertainment in the entire Spokane area. It’s almost like it got a whole new lease on life, ready for many more years of shows and events.

The ownership and operation of this important cultural space fall to the Spokane Public Facilities District. They are the ones who keep everything running smoothly, making sure the venue continues to serve as a key location for the performing arts. This means taking care of everything from scheduling the big Broadway productions to arranging for concerts and other kinds of diverse events. So, it's not just a building; it's a place with a living history, constantly being cared for and updated for the people who come to visit. It tends to be a place that feels like a community hub, in a way.

What Makes the First Interstate Center for the Arts Special?

What truly sets the First Interstate Center for the Arts apart, you might wonder? Well, it's a combination of its rich past and the thoughtful design of its present. This place isn't just a building; it's a historic and very up-to-date facility all rolled into one. It’s a spot that manages to host a wide array of happenings, from the grand Broadway shows that many people love, to the lively concerts that get everyone moving. The way it’s set up, you know, makes it a really good place for all sorts of artistic expressions and big public gatherings. It's almost like it has a certain something that makes every event feel important.

The venue is quite large, with a seating capacity of 2,609 people. This means it can welcome a really good crowd for any performance. The seating arrangement is spread across three distinct levels: there's the orchestra section, which is usually closest to the stage, then the terrace level, and finally the balcony. This setup allows for different perspectives of the stage, and it means there's a seat for nearly everyone, no matter their preference. It’s a pretty well-thought-out design, if you think about it.

A Look at the Seating at First Interstate Center for the Arts

When you come to the First Interstate Center for the Arts, you'll find that a lot of thought went into making sure everyone has a good experience. The designers really focused on providing what they call "open sight lines." This means that from pretty much anywhere you sit, you should have a clear view of the stage, without too many obstructions. So, whether you're up in the balcony or down in the orchestra section, you can usually see all the action unfolding before you. This is a very important detail for a live performance space, wouldn't you say?

Beyond just seeing the show, comfort is also a big consideration. The seats themselves are made to be comfortable, which is a nice touch, especially for those longer performances or concerts. When you combine these clear views with comfortable places to sit, it really helps create what they call an "unsurpassed event environment." It's about making sure that your time there is as enjoyable and relaxing as possible, allowing you to simply get lost in the show. So, in some respects, it’s a place that truly considers its guests.

Where Can You Find the First Interstate Center for the Arts?

Finding the First Interstate Center for the Arts is actually pretty straightforward, as it sits in a very central and rather lovely part of Spokane. It's located right downtown, which means it's usually easy to get to from many parts of the city. One of its most appealing features, you know, is its location right on the beautiful banks of the Spokane River. This offers a really pleasant backdrop, especially if you arrive a little early and want to take a moment to enjoy the surroundings. It's a setting that adds a little something extra to your visit, I think.

Moreover, the venue is right next to Riverfront Park, which is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. This means you can easily combine a trip to the theater with a stroll through the park, or perhaps a bite to eat at one of the nearby places. The proximity to such a well-loved public space just adds to the overall appeal of the center. It’s almost like the whole area is set up for a great day or evening out. So, you see, its physical location is a big part of its charm and convenience.

What Kinds of Shows Come to First Interstate Center for the Arts?

The variety of performances that grace the stage at the First Interstate Center for the Arts is truly impressive. This venue is known for hosting a very wide range of events, making sure there's often something for just about everyone. From the big, splashy Broadway shows that draw huge crowds, to concerts featuring well-known musical acts, it really covers a lot of ground. It’s a place that seems to always have a full calendar, offering diverse performances and even hosting different festivals throughout the year. You know, it keeps things pretty interesting.

Over the years, the center has welcomed some truly famous names and productions. For example, it has hosted the comedian Jerry Seinfeld, bringing laughter to many. And for those who love grand theatrical experiences, it has put on iconic musicals like "Phantom of the Opera" and "The Lion King." These are big, popular shows that require a venue of this scale and capability. The fact that it can adapt for such a wide range of acts really speaks to its flexibility and quality as a performance space. It's a place that, in a way, brings the world of entertainment right to Spokane.

The quality of the shows here often gets high praise. For instance, a production that played at the center was called "the best musical of this century" by The New York Times. The Washington Post also weighed in, saying it was "the kind of evening that restores your faith in musicals." These are pretty strong statements, and they give you a sense of the caliber of entertainment you can expect. It means that when you come here, you’re usually in for a truly memorable experience. So, it tends to be a place where you can count on seeing something special.

Upcoming Delights and How to Catch Them

There's always something new and exciting on the horizon at the First Interstate Center for the Arts, and a quick look at the schedule shows a steady stream of interesting events. For music fans, the legendary rock group Three Dog Night is set to bring an unforgettable evening of tunes on a Saturday in June. That, is that, pretty cool for anyone who enjoys classic rock. Then, for those who love something a bit different, "The Super Live," which is a groundbreaking 2.5D musical, is bringing the famous "Sailor Moon" universe to life. This stage version, based on the beloved manga and anime, promises to transport audiences into a dazzling world. It’s a rather unique offering, to be sure.

Another big name coming to the stage is Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, scheduled for a Friday in May. Jason Isbell, who is a singer, songwriter, guitarist, and actor, has earned a lot of praise for his honest and heartfelt work. Many consider him one of music's greatest performing songwriters, so that will be a treat for fans of thoughtful music. And looking ahead to 2025, Brit Floyd is returning with what sounds like their biggest show yet, celebrating the 50th anniversary of Pink Floyd's classic album, 'Wish You Were Here.' This show is planned to come with a stunning laser and light display, a well-known circular screen, inflatables, and theatrical elements. It sounds like a very big production, actually.

For those who enjoy a good story set to music, a show that promises a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget is also on the schedule. This production is set on a beautiful Greek island where the sun always shines, and it tells a story of love, friendship, and figuring out who you are. All of this is wonderfully told through the timeless hits of ABBA. It’s a really fun and uplifting show, and it just goes to show the range of performances you can catch here. To find tickets for these upcoming events and other shows, you can look online for concert, musical, and more. You can usually see the seating chart and the event schedule there, too.

Getting There - Is it Easy to Reach the First Interstate Center for the Arts?

Getting to events at the First Interstate Center for the Arts is made pretty simple, especially if you're thinking about using public transportation. Spokane Transit, often called STA, makes it easy to ride a bus right to the center. This is a very convenient option for many people, helping to ease any worries about parking or traffic. So, you know, it’s a good way to go.

Specifically, Spokane’s bus rapid transit line, known as City Line Route 1, has a stop just a short block away from the venue, on West Main Avenue. This means you can get off the bus and have just a very short walk to the entrance. Additionally, Route 25, which is the main north/south line for Spokane Transit, stops right in front of the center. So, you have a couple of really direct options for getting there by bus, making it quite accessible for everyone. It tends to be a pretty straightforward trip, honestly.

Staying Connected with First Interstate Center for the Arts

If you're someone who likes to be in the know about what's happening at the First Interstate Center for the Arts, there's a simple way to stay connected. You can join what they call the "eClub." Signing up for this is a great idea if you want to get exciting access to special event details. It’s a really good way to make sure you don't miss out on anything important. You know, it keeps you in the loop.

Beyond just getting information, being part of the eClub also gives you access to early ticket sales. This can be a big advantage, especially for very popular shows that might sell out quickly. And, as an added bonus, members also get chances to win cool stuff. So, if you’re looking to get the most out of your visits to this premier performing arts and entertainment spot in the Spokane region, joining the eClub is a very good step to take. It's a way to feel more involved, more or less.

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