Book-It is back and the money is rolling in for Seattle arts and culture

“Funny Girl” makes its way to Seattle, arts organizations across the city gain funding, and Book-It makes an appearance in Vashon.

Book-It is back and the money is rolling in for Seattle arts and culture
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle, presented by Vashon Repertory Theatre runs October 10–20, 2024. | Courtesy of Vashon Repertory Theatre
This edition of Beyond the Stage explores the resurgence of a beloved theatre company, now collaborating with Vashon Repertory Theatre to present a world premiere production.

Book-It Repertory Theatre is set for a remarkable return with a new vision

After closing its doors in 2023 following a 33-year run, Book-It Repertory Theatre is preparing for an inspiring return. Founders Jane Jones and Myra Platt, who had previously stepped away from leadership in 2020, were recently asked to reignite the company’s non-profit status and restore the beloved Seattle institution’s mission to bring literature to life on stage. While Book-It won’t immediately resume large-scale productions, Jones and Platt are dedicated to ensuring that its signature “Book-It Style” adaptations continue to engage the Puget Sound community.

Book-It Repertory Theatre is known for adapting literary works into stage performances that preserve the author’s narrative voice alongside traditional dialogue. From its beginnings in 1990, the company developed a unique method of storytelling that garnered a loyal following of theatregoers and book lovers alike. The company adapted everything from classic works of literature to contemporary novels...


On the Stage

This week’s lineup is a perfect blend of laughs, music, and a touch of drama. We’ve got a big-hearted musical that’ll leave you laughing and singing; some piano wizardry paired with a pop-classical twist; a lush symphonic ride; and a quirky look at how humanity survives the impossible. Oh, and for the younger crowd (or the young at heart), there’s a musical full of mischief straight from a comic book.

Funny Girl

Musical Theatre | Broadway at The Paramount
Now – September 29 | Tickets

The sensational Broadway revival dazzles with one of the most celebrated musical scores of all time, including classic songs “Don’t Rain On My Parade,” “I’m the Greatest Star,” and “People.” This bittersweet comedy is the story of the indomitable Fanny Brice, a girl from the Lower East Side who dreamed of a life on the stage.

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Next Line

Money makes the world go around…the world go around…

  • The revitalization of downtown Seattle continues with a $9 million grant to arts and cultural organizations given by the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation. “This generous philanthropic gift will go a long way toward supporting our beloved downtown arts and cultural institutions,” said Jon Scholes, president and CEO of the Downtown Seattle Association.  
  • The Stranger reports on the Doors Open program which will see nearly $800 million in King County funds distributed to science, heritage, and arts organizations over the next seven years. The money will come from a 0.1% increase in sales tax.  
  • Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell’s new 2025-2026 Budget Proposal will, according to the Office of Arts & Culture, include $2 million in 2025 and 2026 to provide financial support for Seattle arts and cultural institutions still struggling with post-pandemic recovery.
And that’s a wrap. We hope you found something to dive deeper into. Your participation keeps the performing arts alive and vibrant.