Nov 15 Sunday
Presented by NWAA, KNKX and The Stranger. Critics often compare David Sedaris with Mark Twain because he’s the only living writer who captures the profane ridiculousness of modern life with the same stunning wit and surprising sentences that Twain pioneered. But if you only know Sedaris from his books, you’re missing out on the liveliest literary roadshow of our time.
On Sunday, November 15, Sedaris returns to his favorite American venue, Benaroya Hall’s Taper Auditorium, to celebrate his latest book of essays The Land and Its People. At his readings, Sedaris is a hilarious, freewheeling master of ceremonies. He shares new work, offers spirited book recommendations, autographs and personalizes every book in the building, and conducts a rambunctious live Q&A session with the audience. Don’t miss your chance to meet the world’s funniest, most entertaining writer at the height of his powers.
Welcome to the rock! This exuberant, Tony Award–winning musical has captivated audiences around the world with its astonishing true story of kindness in the face of crisis.
On September 11, 2001, nearly 7,000 airline passengers were unexpectedly diverted to the tiny town of Gander, Newfoundland. Overnight, strangers from across the globe found themselves stranded far from home—but the people of Gander answered uncertainty with compassion and generosity, opening their hearts, their homes, and even (and unforgettably!) their bar. As cultures collided and nerves frayed, this unlikely international sleepover transformed into a powerful celebration of connection and resilience.
Brimming with humor, heart, and a soaring Celtic-inflected score, Come From Away captures five unforgettable days when a small town showed the world what generosity means. It’s an uplifting celebration of compassion, resilience, and our ability to come together when it matters most—a story guaranteed to restore your faith in humanity.
In 1902 New York, anything seemed possible. RAGTIME is a uniquely compelling exploration of America at the turn of the 20th century, weaving together three unforgettable stories: a daring Harlem pianist, a determined Jewish immigrant, and an affluent society woman. Each navigates a changing world, united by courage, compassion, and belief in the promise of the future.
With its Tony Award-winning score blending ragtime, blues, jazz, and show tunes, RAGTIME has been hailed by TIME Magazine as “a triumph for the stage,” and by the International Herald Tribune as “the best musical in twenty years.”
In a production marking our nation’s 250th birthday, this beloved epic musical bursts onto the Village stage, painting a vivid portrait of the people who built this country with hope for a brighter tomorrow.
Get ready to vibe live with Lamar Lofton and Leifo & dem – an epic night you don’t wanna miss!Hideout Presents ... "Lamar Lofton Presents" ... Leifo & demLeif Totusek (guitar) and Ngoma Numu (drums)Get ready for a night to remember at The Hideout with Lamar Lofton bringing you the freshest vibes! Dive into the sounds of Leifo & dem as they take the stage live. This is an in-person event you won't wanna miss—good music, good energy, and good times all around. Grab your crew and come through for some unforgettable beats and chill vibes!
Nov 16 Monday
Styled by the Streets: Black Women in Hip-Hop Fashion explores how Black women transform Hip-Hop fashion into a cultural and political force, transcending the boundaries of music to influence global style, self-expression, and identity. From streetwear to couture, hair to jewelry, and iconic photography, the exhibition showcases style as a powerful expression of Black womanhood across 30 unique artifacts. Layered in late 1990s and early 2000s denim, holographic finishes, and Y2K palettes, the gallery highlights the artists and cultural creators who bring these iconic looks to life—centering the women visionaries whose creativity reshapes Black and Hip-Hop communities through storytelling, authorship, and legacy.
Local Olympia area artists display their work. Paintings, collage, fabric art. Join us for Arts Walk October 2-3!
This is a permanent exhibition. Since time immemorial, Tribal nations have existed in this place we call Washington. This Is Native Land invites visitors to understand Washington State through the lived experiences and voices of its Native people.
Tribal nations are sovereign nations. Today, Native history, culture, and community thrive in our state. Through everyday acts of sovereignty – big and small – Indigenous peoples demonstrate they are still here, they have persevered, and they will always be here.
This Is Native Land is guided by three teachings:We are of the land and watersWith knowledge comes responsibilitySovereignty protects people, lands, and waters
These teachings are shared through multimedia, artwork, and interactive objects designed for guest engagement. They represent a contemporary continuation of Tribal stories and traditions.
Over 100 Native contributors from more than 60 Tribes shaped the exhibition’s stories and content. We thank the Native Advisory Committee and all community participants for their contributions.
Never Turn Back: Echoes of African American Music unveils the profound legacy of Gospel, Blues, Jazz, and Soul artists who shaped the soundscape of American culture and used their music as instruments of resistance, identity, and representation.
Gospel, Blues, Jazz, and Soul embody the profound influence of African American music on culture and history. From the spiritual foundations and transformative movements of Gospel hymns to the revolutionary improvisations of Jazz, the Blues’ Southern roots rising from the Mississippi Delta, and Soul’s powerful amplification of the Civil Rights and Black Power Movements, these genres have defined the unique sound and undying spirit of a nation that continues to echo through contemporary Black music today.
Gold & Glory - a tribute to Charlie Wiggins. The exhibition features four-time gold & glory sweepstakes champion Charlie Wiggins and the original Wiggins special appearing publicly for the first timein over ninety years!
Step into the world surrounding Charlie Wiggins: the energy of Indiana Avenue, the roar of the racetrack, the craft behind the Wiggins Special, and the community that built its own space for competition and excellence. Historical imagery, artifacts, sound and immersive design reveal a story shaped by brilliance, ambition, and endurance.
Museum hours: Thursday – Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
This specialized recreation class is designed for children developmentally ages 10-13 who are neurodivergent and/or on the autism spectrum. We provide a nurturing space for creative dance that fosters motor skills, self expression, and mind-body connection. Supported with props from sensory toolhouse LLC. Together we will explore creative movement, concept based games, and movement elements like time, space, and direction!
