ACT Contemporary Theatre
Seattle's vibrant hub for contemporary theatre, music, dance, and film, offering intimate and engaging performances.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Most performances are scheduled for evenings.
ACT Contemporary Theatre
Best Time
Most performances are scheduled for evenings.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Seattle's vibrant hub for contemporary theatre, music, dance, and film, offering intimate and engaging performances.
"The theatre design was unique - the stage was in the center with seating fanning out. It was a nice way to view the show."
🎟️ Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Shows like 'A Christmas Carol' sell out fast. Grab your tickets online early!
🅿️ Factor in Parking
Downtown parking can be tricky. Arrive early or use public transport.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Contemporary Plays
Main Stage
Experience thought-provoking and modern theatrical productions that push boundaries and spark conversation.

Musical Performances
Various Venues
Enjoy diverse musical acts, from intimate cabaret to full ensemble performances, showcasing local and touring artists.

Unique Theatre Design
Auditorium
The intimate, often central stage setup makes for an immersive experience where performers feel close.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Parking & Arrival
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Shows like 'A Christmas Carol' sell out fast. Grab your tickets online early!
🅿️ Factor in Parking
Downtown parking can be tricky. Arrive early or use public transport.
🎭 Intimate Seating
The theatre's design offers close-up views of the stage.
🎶 Enjoy the Music
Many productions feature talented musicians and singers.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Shows like 'A Christmas Carol' sell out fast. Grab your tickets online early!
🅿️ Factor in Parking
Downtown parking can be tricky. Arrive early or use public transport.
🎭 Intimate Seating
The theatre's design offers close-up views of the stage.
🎶 Enjoy the Music
Many productions feature talented musicians and singers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise ACT Contemporary Theatre for its high-quality, engaging productions and the intimate atmosphere created by its unique theatre design. The talented casts and innovative staging are frequently highlighted as major draws. While parking in downtown Seattle can be a challenge, the overall experience is highly regarded, with many attendees eager to return for future shows.
"Had an unforgettable time volunteering with ACT Theatre in Seattle for their production of "Twelfth Night "! 🎭
From the moment we stepped into the space, the volunteers were welcoming, the staff went above and beyond, and the cast? Absolutely phenomenal!
We laughed so much during the performance - it was the kind of night that reminds you why live theatre is pure magic.
If you haven’t seen Twelfth Night yet, seriously - grab your tickets! It’s clever, heartfelt, and full of energy.
Huge thanks to everyone at ACT for making it such a special experience. 💚"
Wicked Rae's
"The theatre design was unique - the stage was in the center with seating fanning out. It was a nice way to view the show. Parking is an issue (as for all downtown events) but it was not terrible."
Mols Mama
"Absolutely joyful teaming of Seattle Shakespeare and ACT. Much more than I was expecting. Twelfth Night was the affirming romp we needed. Great interpretation with musical interludes which could have been sold out performance on their own. When certain scenes occurred, you could feel the audience lean in, all of us holding our breath.
Ushers and staff were great. The theater is really the perfect size as we felt like the players were looking us in the eye, alternatively appealing for help or sizing us up, appropriately depending on the moments of the play. For one of the lighter plays, the quality of analysis we overheard during intermission was really spot on and revealing about nuanced casting choices and blocking.
We’ll be back!"
Sharon Tyler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
ACT Contemporary Theatre is located in downtown Seattle. You can reach it via various bus routes or light rail. Parking is available nearby, but can be expensive and fill up quickly, so consider ride-sharing or public transit.
Several parking garages are located within walking distance of the theatre. It's advisable to check parking apps for availability and rates beforehand, as downtown parking can be a challenge.
Yes, ACT Contemporary Theatre is well-served by Seattle's public transportation network, including numerous bus lines and the Link light rail, making it an accessible option for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased directly through the ACT Contemporary Theatre website, by phone, or at the box office. It's recommended to book in advance, especially for popular shows like 'A Christmas Carol'.
Showtimes vary depending on the production, but most performances are held in the evenings. Weekend matinees are also common. Check the theatre's schedule for specific performance times.
While it's possible to get tickets on the day of the show, it's not guaranteed, especially for sold-out performances. Booking in advance is the safest bet to ensure you get a seat.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. It's best to check the ACT Contemporary Theatre website or contact the box office directly for current discount information.
No, photography and videography are generally not allowed during performances at ACT Contemporary Theatre to ensure the best experience for all audience members and to protect the artistic integrity of the show.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
ACT Contemporary Theatre often features unique seating arrangements, sometimes with a central stage and fanning seating. This design creates an intimate atmosphere where the audience feels closely connected to the performance.
ACT Contemporary Theatre hosts a diverse range of performances including contemporary plays, musicals, dance, spoken word, film, and visual art. They are known for innovative and engaging productions.
Many productions are suitable for families, but it's always best to check the specific show's age recommendations. 'A Christmas Carol' is a popular family-friendly option.
Audiences often describe the atmosphere as electric and engaging, with a strong sense of community. The intimate theatre design contributes to a feeling of shared experience.
Yes, ACT Contemporary Theatre sometimes offers ASL interpreted and sensory-friendly performances, particularly for shows like 'A Christmas Carol'. Check their schedule for these specific dates.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While ACT Contemporary Theatre may not have extensive dining facilities, there are numerous restaurants and cafes in the surrounding downtown Seattle area offering a wide variety of cuisines before or after your show.
Typically, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the theatre. There might be concessions available for purchase, but it's best to confirm with the theatre directly.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography and videography are strictly prohibited during performances to avoid disrupting the show and other audience members. You may be able to take photos in the lobby area before or after the show.
The theatre's unique architecture and lobby can offer some interesting photo opportunities before or after the performance. However, the focus is on the live show itself.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎭 Theatre Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The ACT Contemporary Theatre Experience
Recent collaborations, such as the one with Seattle Shakespeare Company, highlight ACT's dedication to innovative programming and reaching new audiences. Visitors often praise the quality of the acting and the technical aspects of the productions, noting elaborate sets and seamless stagecraft. Whether you're drawn to cutting-edge drama or vibrant musical performances, ACT Contemporary Theatre offers a consistently engaging and memorable cultural outing.
Navigating Downtown Seattle Parking
To avoid the stress of last-minute parking hunts, consider arriving earlier than usual. This buffer time allows for finding a suitable spot and still reaching the theatre comfortably. Alternatively, embracing Seattle's public transportation system, including buses and the Link light rail, can be a more relaxed and often cost-effective way to reach the theatre, bypassing parking altogether.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit