On August 26, 1947, Dorothy Darby Smith and a group of visionary founders signed the “Agreement of Incorporation,” officially establishing Spokane Civic Theatre, Inc. Since that day, Civic has played a central role in shaping the cultural landscape of Spokane and the Inland Northwest.
Initially, Civic staged performances in several of downtown Spokane’s historic venues. In 1967, a dream was realized when Civic’s facility opened on Howard Street—made possible through the tireless efforts of leadership and the unwavering support of patrons and community members. Just five years later, the facility was expanded with the addition of the costumes department, scene shop and Firth J. Chew Studio Theatre, a 96-seat flexible black box space, named after a devoted Board Member and champion. Prolific architect Moritz Kundig, known for his distinctive midcentury modern style, designed both spaces.
Each year, Civic presents 15 – 20 plays, musicals and other live events in addition to innumerable performing arts classes, predominantly for the youth of the community.
To date, Civic has produced more than 800 shows, represented Spokane at national and international festivals, garnered throngs of awards, and nurtured generations of artists, educators and performers.
Whether you are an arts enthusiast or appreciate the importance of accessible performing arts opportunities for students and community members, invest in Spokane Civic Theatre’s unmatched legacy and underwrite ever-growing performing arts education and production costs including licensing fees, costumes and scenic materials and supplies, and personnel.
We simply cannot do it without you!
If you have any questions, please contact Civic by emailing Support@SpokaneCivicTheatre.com
We are grateful for the continued support of our patrons, members and community for the last 78 years.
Thank you for your support and attendance of the 3rd Annual Fundraiser, Stars of the Night, on March 29, 2025! For any questions regarding this year’s event, please contact Spokane Civic Theatre Board Member Amber Williams, Event Chair, at celebrate@spokanecivictheatre.com. We are immensely grateful for your support!
→ Save the Date for Next Year’s Event: March 2026!
Spokane Civic Theatre gratefully acknowledges the many individuals, foundations and corporations in our community whose generous gifts are vital to advancing our dedication to enriching the lives of citizens through live theater by expanding their insight into the human condition.
For any Planned Giving opportunity, Spokane Civic Theatre Endowment Fund represents a long-term investment in the theatre that will grow and serve us in the future. A small percentage of the Fund is annually provided to the theatre for special projects, and for building and maintenance of the theatre. Established in 1960, the Endowment Fund was created by the founders of Spokane Civic Theatre to provide on-going operational support, and to secure a bright future.
→ To find out more about supporting Civic’s legacy by contributing to the Endowment Fund, please contact Spokane Civic Theatre Endowment Fund Board Members at Endowment@SpokaneCivicTheatre.com
Since 1967, Spokane Civic Theatre’s home on Howard Street has been a creative haven for some and a source of community and entertainment for others. In recent years, development in our area—downtown Spokane’s North Bank neighborhood—has boomed.
In spring 2020, when plans for a 5,000+ seat outdoor stadium, 140 feet east of Civic’s facility, were released, Civic Board Members and management went to task, researching soundproofing solutions and exploring long-overdue renovation ideas, determined to illuminate a bright future for Civic.