Historic Seattle and Seattle Theater Group team up to save The Showbox

Four months ago, The Showbox was unanimously designated a City of Seattle landmark following a year-long advocacy effort led by Historic Seattle.

Although a great feat for the group, Landmark status in Washington doesn’t guarantee the protection of a property, nor can it save a building’s specific use. The building currently faces fear of demolition, as there have been reports of an offer made to the City of Seattle. A Vancouver, BC-based developer was said to want to tear down the structure to build a 44-story tower in its place, which would accommodate 442 residential units.

Now, Historic Seattle has teamed up with Seattle Theater Group (operators of various theatres such as The Paramount, Moore, and Neptune Theatres) to try to save The Showbox by purchasing and running the landmark until 2024.

Showbox Presents

The Showbox has been around since July 24, 1939. It has since provided local music fans with an array of entertainment over the decades. From the Jazz Age to the Grunge Era and now featuring artists such as Thievery Corporation and Cashmere Cat, it’s undeniable that the 80-year-old building is packed with a rich history of music.

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On December 18, the Landmarks Preservation Board is hosting a meeting that will decide the fate of the Showbox.

Friends of the Historical Society are urging the public to present their comments of support in person at the meeting or by writing in advance by December 6 to Sarah Sodt, the City’s Historic preservation officer at [email protected].