Capitol Theatre Committee

The Capitol Theatre Committee is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting arts, culture, and humanities through its management and maintenance of the historic Capitol Theatre in Yakima, Washington. This organization falls under the category of Performing Arts Centers as classified by the National Taxonomy of Exempt Entities (NTEE)[1].

History

The Capitol Theatre was originally built in 1920 as a grand vaudeville house by Frederick Mercy, Sr., and renowned architect B. Marcus Pretica. It was designed to serve as a major venue for vaudeville performances, later transitioning into a cinema and eventually becoming a cultural landmark. By the early 1970s, the theatre had fallen into disrepair, prompting the City of Yakima to purchase it in 1975 for restoration purposes. Tragedy struck shortly after when a fire destroyed much of the theatre, leaving only the façade and some structural elements intact[2].

Following the fire, the Capitol Theatre Committee was formed to lead the restoration efforts. Through local contributions exceeding $700,000, along with city funds, grants, and an insurance settlement, the theatre was restored to its original glory and reopened in 1978. The restoration preserved the theatre's historical architecture while incorporating modern necessities such as administrative offices and community facilities[2].

Mission and Activities

The Capitol Theatre Committee curates dynamic programming to foster community access and preserve the theatre's cultural legacy. The organization hosts an average of 175 events annually, featuring a range of performances sponsored by both local and for-profit promoters[2]. Key initiatives include:

• Community Engagement and Cultural Programs: The theatre offers diverse programming to ensure community access, with special emphasis on educational programs such as the Capitol Kids series and the Global Voices series. These programs often include full-week residencies that bring artists into local schools and communities[3].

• Fundraising and Support: As a nonprofit, the committee relies on donations, grants, and partnerships to sustain its mission. Contributions are tax-deductible, supporting both operational costs and community outreach programs[3].

Financial Structure

The Capitol Theatre Committee derives its revenue primarily from program services, contributions, and rental income. In recent years, program services have accounted for about 65.6% of total revenue, while contributions make up about 16.9%. Rental property income constitutes around 14.3% of the total revenue[1]. Expenses primarily include salaries and wages for staff, as well as executive compensation[1].

Impact

The Capitol Theatre serves as a pivotal cultural and historical landmark in Central Washington, providing a venue for performing arts that enriches the community through diverse programming and educational initiatives[2]. The organization's efforts not only preserve historical architecture but also contribute to the local economy by hosting events that attract visitors from across the region[3].