Our Story
Founded in 1977, the Civic Light Opera Association, now known as Seattle Musical Theatre (SMT), began as a passionate initiative by a group of opera enthusiasts in North Seattle. Their vision was to provide accessible theatre to the community, starting with a modest venue above a music store in Northgate. The inaugural production, Johann Strauss’ "The Gypsy Baron," marked the beginning of a rich tradition in musical theatre.
As demand grew, SMT moved to the 750-seat auditorium at the Jane Addams School, where it thrived until 2002. The organization adapted to the changing landscape of theatre, incorporating contemporary musicals into its repertoire. After a brief period at the Shoreline Center, SMT found a home in Building 47 of Historic Magnuson Park in 2008, where it continued to enchant audiences with productions like "Legally Blonde" and "Mamma Mia." Despite challenges, SMT remains committed to delivering high-quality performances that resonate with the community.