A New Chapter for Rainbow City

Big things are happening at Rainbow City! We are thrilled to share that we've officially adopted Community-Centric Fundraising (CCF) principles and an inclusive budget-making process. Starting today, these shifts will transform how we build connections, allocate resources, and empower our community.  

This marks an exciting milestone in Rainbow City's ongoing commitment to equity, inclusivity, and collective growth. But what does this mean, and how can you be part of these impactful changes? Let's break it down together.  

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Reflecting on Past Challenges

For years, our fundraising and budgeting practices have faced obstacles that limited their impact. Challenges included time constraints, rotating leadership, and a lack of expertise in modern development techniques.  

On top of that, many approaches we relied on in the past leaned heavily on transactional giving or short-term goals while leaving the larger community out of the picture. Efforts like silent auctions and year-end appeals brought some success but fell short of building the long-term relationships and inclusivity we strive for in our mission.  

These limitations have shown us a clear need to rethink the way we operate. A turning point has come, and we are ready for it.  

Why the Shift Toward Community-Centric Fundraising

Over the past decade, Rainbow City has naturally gravitated toward the principles of CCF without completely formalizing them. Since its formal introduction by Vu Le and a collective of Seattle-area nonprofit leaders in 2015, CCF has become a rallying cry for organizations looking to prioritize equity alongside their missions. CCF calls for a community-first mindset, where relationship-building with donors and stakeholders becomes an active and intentional process. It’s about sharing resources, promoting equity, and ensuring diverse voices shape decision-making.  

This approach aligns perfectly with Rainbow City's mission of creating an inclusive environment where everyone is valued. By reimagining how we engage with donors, volunteers, and members, we can break down barriers of inequity and uplift all members of our community equally.  

A Look Ahead

With the policy now passed, the wheels are already in motion to bring these changes to life. Here’s what you can expect as we roll out CCF principles and inclusive budgeting over the next year, starting in June 2025.  

Inclusive Budgeting

Our inclusive budget-making process will invite community voices into critical financial decisions. Through outreach sessions and participatory meetings, we’ll create a shared understanding of how resources are allocated and managed. This ensures transparency and accountability every step of the way.  

Prioritizing Equity and Diversity

From how we plan events to how we distribute resources, equity and diversity will no longer be ideals—we are embedding them into every facet of Rainbow City's operations. This includes recognizing the value of contributions that go beyond financial donations, such as time, expertise, and advocacy.  

Strengthening Community Ties

Through initiatives like collaborative programs with local nonprofits and enhanced volunteer opportunities, Rainbow City aims to foster new connections and build trust. Being part of our community means belonging to something bigger than ourselves.  

RCCB Trombones Concert Benaroya

How You Can Get Involved

Excited? Us too! Here’s how you can join this movement and make an impact with Rainbow City.  

Join a Committee

We’re inviting everyone to be part of the change. Consider joining one of our community committees where you can help shape ideas, initiatives, and decisions. You don’t need experience; just your passion and a desire to contribute.  

Attend Outreach and Feedback Sessions

We'll be holding regular sessions to gather feedback and share progress updates. These open forums are your chance to voice your ideas, ask questions, and stay connected to Rainbow City’s vision. Together, we’ll ensure our plans reflect the diverse needs of our community. Keep an eye out on our Events page. 

Spread the Word

The more support we have, the stronger our impact will be. Share our mission with your friends, family, and networks. Encourage them to join the conversation or attend an event. Collective growth starts with awareness and advocacy.  

Be Part of Rainbow City's Next Chapter

At Rainbow City, we know that the best ideas and solutions come from the collective. Together, we’re redefining how we fundraise and allocate resources to reflect the incredible diversity of our community. This is about uplifting voices, fostering connection, and ensuring equity in everything Rainbow City stands for.  

Now’s the perfect time to get involved and be part of meaningful change. Join us as we take this exciting step forward. Whether it’s joining a committee, attending an outreach session, or simply sharing our story, your contribution matters.  

Let's get started on building a brighter, more inclusive future together.  

Ricardo Orchestra RCO

At Rainbow City, we’ve always believed in the power of music to build bridges, create community, and inspire positive change. That’s why we’re thrilled to share some incredible news with you—we’ve been awarded a $26,700 grant through the 4Culture Public Free Access program for 2025! This funding will allow us to expand accessibility to our performances while securing much-needed support for our ongoing work in service to the community. At Rainbow City, we’ve always believed in the power of music to build bridges, create community, and inspire positive change. That’s why we’re thrilled to share some incredible news with you—we’ve been awarded a $26,700 grant through the 4Culture Public Free Access program for 2025! This funding will allow us to expand accessibility to our performances while securing much-needed support for our ongoing work in service to the community. 

Here’s how this support is going to make a difference for YOU and the entire Rainbow City family. 

A Significant First for Rainbow City 

Receiving this grant from 4Culture marks a historic first for Rainbow City Performing Arts. It’s not just about the grant itself, but what it represents. We are honored to be among the 286 recipients dedicated to breaking down financial barriers for communities to enjoy and participate in cultural programs in King County. 

By joining their vision of inclusivity through the arts, we’re creating a space where everyone, regardless of income, can experience the joy of live music and creative expression. It’s revolutionary for us, and we can’t wait to double down on our impulse of sharing art without limits. 

This is not a traditional grant award that we will receive in full. Instead, this grant functions as a reimbursement program. What this means is that we can be reimbursed for providing free access to members and patrons, up to the total amount of the grant. This structure ensures that the funds directly support breaking down financial barriers and making our programs more accessible to everyone in the Rainbow City community. 

Increased Access to Music and the Arts 

Thanks to 4Culture’s Public Free Access program, we can ensure that more people than ever can attend our events and programs free of charge. This funding directly reduces barriers that may have otherwise excluded individuals and families from experiencing the magic of the arts. 

With this coming financial boost, here’s what we’re able to offer: 

  • Free Tickets to our concerts and performances. 
  • Expanded Community Outreach to bring music to underserved groups. 
  • Proactive Recruiting of people who are low income or otherwise marginalized to engage as members or patrons 
  • Accessibility for All by allowing us to have the capacity to fund ways to break down additional barriers to participation. 

This means you’ll have even more opportunities to join us for events that inspire, engage, and uplift. 

What This Means for Rainbow City’s Future 

This grant strengthens our ability to focus on accessibility while giving us room to grow in other areas. Moving forward, this funding allows us to reimagine the purpose of our beloved Angel Fund. Traditionally, the Angel Fund has supported membership dues for musicians facing financial hurdles. Now, with this grant to sustain our public programming, the Angel Fund will focus even more on tackling additional barriers to participation within the wider community.  

Additionally, opportunities like this create ripple effects. By welcoming more people into our vibrant musical experiences, we grow our audience, uplift our local community, and ensure that Rainbow City can continue thriving for years to come. 

Concert Band on stage

Be Part of What’s Next 

This milestone isn’t just about Rainbow City; it’s about YOU and the extended community we’re so proud to serve. Together, we can break barriers, amplify diverse voices, and celebrate the performing arts in their fullest expression. 

Want to get involved? Here’s how you can make a difference: 

  • Attend Our Performances – Come and experience our upcoming programs firsthand. Everyone is welcome! 
  • Spread the Word – Share this great news with your friends, family, and coworkers. 
  • Connect Us to Your Community in Need – Do you know a group of folks who would benefit from attending our show but could not afford it? We welcome larger groups organized by teachers or nonprofits. Contact us for more details! 

Music has always been about bringing people together. It’s why we exist, and it’s why we’re so excited about this new chapter for Rainbow City. See you all at the next performance—we’ll save you a seat! 

On Friday, June 6th, join Rainbow City Performing Arts at Benaroya Hall for Action! – the thrilling finale of their “Lights, Camera, Action!” season. This extraordinary evening celebrates strength, resilience, and the vibrant spirit of the LGBTQIA+ community through the power of music. 

This unmissable event will feature breathtaking performances by Rainbow City's talented concert band and orchestra, showcasing music that uplifts and amplifies diverse voices. Adding to the excitement are special guest artists, STANCE, an inspirational ensemble of trans and nonbinary singers, and Ryan Cassata, a trailblazing queer singer-songwriter and activist. Together, they promise an unforgettable evening of passion, empowerment, and joy. 

During intermission, guests can look forward to lively entertainment in the grand lobby, complete with jazz from the Rainbow City Jazz Band, an engaging exhibition by the talented color guard, a silent auction, interactive games, and an assortment of snacks and drinks to celebrate the start of Pride Month. Whether this is your first Rainbow City event, or you’ve celebrated with them all season, come together with friends while experiencing the power of community. 

Timeline of Events 

6:00 PM: Doors open! Guests are invited to explore the silent auction, mingle, and start soaking in the energy of the evening. 

6:30 PM: Special chamber music performance begins, setting the tone for an elegant and moving night of music. 

7:00 PM: The orchestra takes the stage in Taper Auditorium to kick off the heart of the concert with a powerful performance. 

7:45 PM: Intermission celebration in the grand lobby featuring a lively set by the Rainbow City Jazz Band and an exciting color guard performance. Guests can also engage in games, continue bidding in the silent auction, or enjoy refreshments. 

8:45 PM: The concert band graces the stage for the evening’s second half, delivering dynamic and uplifting performances. 

9:30 PM: The event concludes, leaving attendees empowered and inspired, with memories to treasure. 

RCCB Trombones Concert Benaroya

Supporting Rainbow City’s Vision and Mission 

The Action! event isn’t just a concert – it’s a vital fundraiser to sustain and grow Rainbow City Performing Arts’ mission of creating an inclusive and diverse space for musical expression. Donations directly support their work to amplify LGBTQIA+ visibility, promote equity, and empower marginalized voices through the arts. 

Rainbow City Performing Arts fosters a safe, accepting community where musicians of all identities, abilities, and incomes can thrive. Many members have found Rainbow City to be the family and support system they were missing elsewhere. Their ensembles, from dynamic orchestras to vibrant jazz and marching bands, reflect the organization’s commitment to showcasing diverse talent and breaking boundaries while inspiring social cohesion. 

Funds raised during Action! will enable initiatives like the Amplifying Diverse Voices annual commission, which supports emerging artists from marginalized communities, and supporting our Angel Fund, which removes barriers for members while ensuring everyone has access to instruments needed to participate. Donations also help sustain free performances, educational programs, and youth outreach initiatives, all of which reinforce their mission of creating a more visible and equitable performing arts community. 

By supporting Rainbow City during the silent auction or at any time at rainbowcity.org/donate, you’re advocating for diversity, social justice, and the belief that the arts have the power to transform lives. Together, we can continue creating music that inspires, empowers, and celebrates. Every bid and every donation counts – thank you for helping make these incredible programs possible! 

To purchase tickets, request free access, or learn more information, visit rainbowcity.org/action. 

We are pumped for another exciting season of Rainbow City Marching Band! This year, we're starting our rehearsal period sooner and adding more events to our calendar. Get ready for an amazing season! We are gearing up to start Spring rehearsals, and we will be excited for you to be a part of it! Whether you're a fan of Chappel Roan, Lil Nas X, Diana Ross, or Dua Lipa, we've got something for everyone. Now is the perfect time to get involved and join us as we prepare for a fantastic season. We welcome playing members to join and will soon have our volunteer opportunities available. We have many events listed below where you'll be able to see the band perform.

Rehearsal Schedule

Rainbow City Marching Band rehearses from March to May to get ready for regional parades and festivals in June, July, and August. Rehearsals are every Thursday evening from 7pm-9pm, starting March 20th. We're currently in the process of securing a new rehearsal venue with more suitable marching space, but for now, we are rehearsing in the U District.

Performances and Events

If you're looking to catch one of our performances, you'll find us at some of our favorite events, including the Fremont Solstice Parade, Seattle Pride, and Big Day of Play. We're also excited to perform for the first time at Seattle Pride's Pride in the Park on June 7th! Here are some of the planned events we have lined up:

  • Pride in the Park - June 7, 2025
  • Fremont Solstice Parade - June 21, 2025
  • Seattle Pride - June 29, 2025
  • Bellingham Pride - Date TBD
  • Band Jam - Date TBD
  • Big Day of Play - Date TBD
  • Alki Beach Pride - Date TBD
  • UCUCC Hopecoming - Date TBD

About the Marching Band

The Rainbow City Marching Band is a loud and proud marching band with a spirited drumline and dazzling color guard. Since 1998, we've been marching in Seattle to represent LGBTQIA+ musicians in outdoor events all summer. We're an inclusive ensemble that judges our excellence by the joy we create and the family of musicians we gather. We have fun together while focusing on honing our performance to thrill our audiences. Wherever we go, we have a great time!

Join Us!

Itching to dust off that instrument and entertain crowds throughout the Puget Sound? Join the Rainbow City Marching Band for a fantastic season as we return to the streets! We can't wait to see you there!

For more information, fill out our membership form.

Are you passionate about music and excited about the Seattle band scene? Do you thrive in energetic environments and love engaging a crowd? Here’s your chance to lead the dynamic and spirited Rainbow City Marching Band, Seattle's premier LGBTQIA+ and allied marching ensemble founded in 1998! You may be the dynamic band leader we need to grow our program for a new generation of community musicians.

Rainbow City Marching Band is part of Rainbow City Performing Arts, a growing LGBTQIA+ and allied nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding visibility for our community through performance. We offer a welcoming and inclusive space for musicians of all backgrounds to perform while representing our community at various events.

As the Artistic Director, you will:

  • Shape the musical direction of Rainbow City Marching Band: Develop and implement the artistic vision for the marching program, selecting and arranging diverse repertoire in collaboration with Color Guard and Drumline program leaders.
  • Lead rehearsals and performances: Foster a positive learning environment through clear communication and engaging instruction, ensuring every member feels encouraged and supported.
  • Build a strong ensemble spirit: Cultivate a sense of camaraderie and collaboration, fostering a band that not only sounds great but thrives together.
  • Create impactful performances: Plan and oversee the production of both marching and standing appearances at local festivals and events starting in June each year.

We are looking for someone with:

  • Proven experience as an ensemble leader for a marching band
  • A passion for making performances accessible and entertaining
  • Excellent communication and preparation skills
  • The ability to motivate and inspire musicians of all levels
  • A commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment
  • The acumen to advocate for the band on behalf of Rainbow City

This is an exciting opportunity to lead a talented and dedicated group of musicians in a truly special organization. We rehearse on Thursday evenings between March and June with the performance period lasting June through August with some final appearances through the end of the year. We perform at various events throughout the Seattle area, including the Seattle Pride Parade and Fremont Solstice, and other local pride festivals including Bellingham. If you're ready to make your mark on Seattle's marching band scene, we encourage you to apply!

Read the full job description and apply here: Job Description

This role pays a contract amount of $5,000 for the season with the option to renew. The Artistic Director will net an average of 25 hours per month to fulfill contract terms. The job will be open until filled, for preferred consideration apply before March 13, 2025, to be included in the interview process.

Rainbow City Performing Arts is a small nonprofit largely funded by our own community, while seeking expanded funding. We’re committed to equitable compensation across our eight musical programs. Our mission is to create a diverse and inclusive environment for musical expression that promotes the equity and visibility of people in the LGBTQIA+ community. We’re seeking a community leader to help us continue our path of growth and success by joining our team.

Rainbow City Performing Arts is an equal opportunity employer and contractor. We value diversity at our core and welcome applications from all qualified candidates.

We are thrilled to announce the establishment of the Rainbow City Endowment Fund in partnership with the Jon Sims Endowment Fund for the Performing Arts (JSEF). This endowment marks a significant milestone in securing the long-term sustainability and growth of Rainbow City Performing Arts.

The Jon Sims Endowment Fund was founded to house endowment funds specifically for LGBTQIA+ arts organizations. Their mission aligns perfectly with our vision to foster creativity, community, and pride. As part of their Drive for 35 program, JSEF offered a generous incentive by matching our initial investment of $5,000 with an additional $1,750, bringing our total initial fund balance to $6,750.

Establishing this endowment addresses several key challenges we face, including financial stability, program expansion, and community engagement. Like many nonprofit organizations, we rely on donations, grants, and fundraising efforts, which can be unpredictable during economic downturns or unforeseen circumstances. The endowment will create a financial safety net for Rainbow City Performing Arts, ensuring that we can weather economic fluctuations and changes in funding availability. This stability will allow us to confidently expand our programs, invest in artistic excellence, and provide transformative experiences for our members and audiences.

The endowment also represents our dedication to LGBTQIA+ artists and their creative expression, leaving a lasting legacy that supports generations of performers. It will enable us to continue fostering connections, celebrating diversity, and promoting understanding through music and performance. Financial stability will liberate us from short-term fundraising pressures, allowing our artists to focus on producing the best quality performance and experiment without constraints.

Our future growth plan includes regular fundraising efforts, encouraging bequests and legacy gifts, and reinvesting earnings from the endowment to ensure long-term growth. We are committed to transparency and stewardship, regularly updating our stakeholders on the endowment's performance and impact and ensuring that the endowment is managed ethically and in alignment with our mission.

Establishing the Rainbow City Endowment Fund is our opportunity to set the stage for the future. With a stable endowment, we can weather financial uncertainties, focus on our mission, expand our ensembles, offer scholarships, and organize community events. Our endowment will leave a lasting legacy, supporting LGBTQIA+ artists for generations to come.

Thank you for your continued support and for being part of this exciting journey with us!

As we carry forward the final elements of our organizational restructure, we are excited to share the transformative changes that have been enacted by our outgoing board. This comprehensive process was guided by a thorough review of best practices, legal and contracting requirements, and the unique needs of our community and culture. The restructure aims to address staffing gaps, streamline operations, and foster a collaborative and transparent environment. Here’s a detailed look at the key elements of our restructure:

Artistic Direction and Program Independence

One of the cornerstone principles of our restructure is to ensure that our Ensemble Directors, now re-titled as Artistic Directors (ADs), operate with complete artistic independence. This change acknowledges their expertise and allows them to focus on their roles as leaders, educators, and visionaries without being bogged down by administrative duties. By eliminating the chaotic and legally ambiguous role of the previous single, central Artistic Director, we create a more streamlined and functional system. This supports our mission by increasing the visibility of LGBTQIA+ people in leadership roles and ensuring that our artistic direction is driven by those with a deep understanding of our community's needs and aspirations.

Re-titling Ensemble Directors as Artistic Directors empowers them to provide leadership and direction for all program activities and staff within their specific programs. They will maintain accountability for asset deadlines and receive compensation that reflects the demands of their roles. This change allows our ADs to focus on our mission of creating diverse and inclusive spaces to rehearse and performances that reflect diversity and promote equity.

Uplifting and supporting other artistic staff, such as Ensemble Managers, Section Leaders and Section Coordinators, with new policies and tools strengthens equity and inclusion by providing robust support to our artistic leaders. This structure ensures that ADs can focus on their creative vision while fostering a collaborative environment that aligns with our mission.

 

New Programs Department to Empower Artistic Staff and Members

To further support our artistic staff and members, we are establishing a new Programs Department. This department will empower our ADs and provide the necessary administrative support to enhance their creative vision. It will help guide universal programs to support and place personnel in our programs, such as Assistant Conductors, as well as guide equitable member opportunities from auditions to social events. This aligns with our mission by creating a diverse and inclusive environment, offering opportunities for emerging leaders to develop their skills and contribute to our community.

The Programs Department will expand in importance in our future to meet demands for more accessibility and equitable support. It will meet more community needs as funding becomes available to expand capacity for staffing and support funds. Future growth could include elements of social work and case management as well as program development and expansion of educational opportunities.

Unified Department Structure Promotes Mission Advancement and Program Experimentation

Our new unified department structure is designed to promote mission-focused growth and improve outcomes for all of our stakeholders. By redefining roles and responsibilities, we create a more cohesive and efficient organization. Establishing an employed Executive Director (ED) along with department leaders will ensure both accountability and efficiency of operations.

The fast growth of departmental activity shows the need to work towards professionalizing our core management functions. This protects our staff, members, and the organization itself from the risks of having volunteers operating core management functions. As funding becomes available, more volunteer roles can be converted to employees being paid an hourly wage to complete the most important work of the organization. This retains their experience and expertise as well as uplifts their equity in doing work that is paid to professionals in other organizations.

Our central structure also supports experimentation in programs and allows successes to be replicated across all programs. It also helps identify challenges and risks to minimize disruptions so problems that occur in one program can be prevented in others and creates a more efficient base for deploying new technologies and tools for our members. The robustness of this system helps ensure our future is more stable and mistakes provide lasting learning to project steady improvement in experiences and outcomes.

Conclusion

The proposed restructuring aims to enhance our organization’s functionality by right-sizing time commitments for artistic staff and contractors and providing necessary administrative support. This will allow them to focus on their creative vision. A stable reporting structure will ensure cohesive action and better preparation for new seasons, while integrating planning with departments will improve communication.

This finalizes the vision of creating a professional-model staff structure to operate our organization as a centralized nonprofit that operates multiple programs in different disciplines. Together, we are stronger than the sum of our parts, and this restructuring will create a more efficient, supportive, and forward-thinking organization, better equipped to achieve our artistic and operational goals.

We are excited about this new chapter and look forward to the continued success and growth of our programs and community. Thank you for your support and dedication to our mission.

Today, we woke up to devastating news for our community. It’s not only the results of the presidential election and authoritarian rhetoric, but the $215 million dollar ad campaign attacking trans, nonbinary, and two-spirit people. That and other divisive actions and rhetoric cause fear and deep concern in so many within our Rainbow City family. With people of color and immigrants being targeted, women being pushed aside and still needing to fight for their rights, and so much uncertainty looking forward, we must stay strong and true to our values. Concerning actions are looming – legislative, judicial, and maybe worse. We must gird ourselves to stay strong through dark times.

Rainbow City was formed in an earlier era of threats to our people. When we formed in 1998, it was another 17 years before all in our community could get married and have the safety of family. But those hard-fought gains were not the end of our work. The most vulnerable and marginalized in our community are now the ones under the most serious attacks and threats. This time, they are not just denying our love, but also our existence.

Out of shock and horror comes a stronger sense of the work ahead. The long arc of history bends towards justice, but we don’t need to be silent and passive. As a social justice organization, it is our duty to advocate and fight against hate with our joy and love. Music is a powerful tool for us to show our humanity!

We must show:

Proactivity: Rainbow City must find a new way forward under this new threat. It is not enough for us to simply exist as a space for our community, but we must be proactive in creating diverse and inclusive spaces that bring a sense of comfort, safety, and yes, joy.

Solidarity: We must maintain solidarity as a community. When any of us is attacked or their existence is denied, it is an attack on us all. Over 35% of our membership identifies as trans, nonbinary, or genderfluid and over 60% identifies as mixed race or a person of color. We will be there for anyone who needs a home and safe space to just be themselves.

Advocacy: Our new board structure offers us the opportunity to consider and plan advocacy for the first time. A performing arts org that was created to uplift LGBTQIA+ people cannot simply just exist while our members are under such threat. We have a responsibility to make things better at every level and in any way we can.

Visibility: Our mission dictates we make our community more visible, but that does not mean we let them see us as beleaguered and broken. Our visibility must be a light in the darkness, a beacon of hope. They will see us not just in the cloister of a pride event, but they will see us unafraid to be our loud and proud selves anywhere we please. Visibility need not be a passive exercise; we must be proactively visible and show our Pride to the world.

Friends – stay strong! We are a growing community and together we have so much power that they will have no choice but to hear us, see us, and know we exist. We need you to be a part of the new way forward. One political loss does not erase the existential path we must still tread towards the future we know we deserve. Our path remains true and our moral fortitude as powerful as ever.

There is hope, and we are not alone. The long arc of history still bends towards justice and the principles of fairness, decency, and honor will always win in the end. We must remain strong in our convictions and support for each other. Through our collective power, we will show the world how our impassioned voices will never be denied or ignored. Together, we will be a force for love, acceptance, and pride!

We are beyond thrilled to return to Benaroya Hall for our new season after such a successful run last year! This year, we kick off with our "Lights" concert on November 24th, followed by "Camera" on March 9th and "Action!" on June 6th. Each event promises to be a celebration of diverse voices, exquisite music, and a joy-filled community experience. Don’t miss these unforgettable performances!

Our return to Benaroya Hall marks a significant milestone for Rainbow City Performing Arts, as we continue to promote equity and visibility for LGBTQIA+ communities through music. The "Lights" concert will feature brilliant and uplifting pieces, setting the stage for a season filled with exciting grand music. This event will be a grand opportunity to display the rich talent and diversity of our community musicians.

A Performance to Remember

Our upcoming concerts will feature an array of captivating repertoire. For "Lights," expect a blend of soulful and uplifting pieces. We’ve chosen to bring forward works that highlight diverse voices and feature composers and music that evoke themes of hope, visibility, or brilliance. The members of each ensemble have worked hard to perfect the grand and wonderful works of music that represent such broad genres and styles.

The orchestra will open with "Die Vorstellung des Chaos" from Haydn's The Creation, a powerful representation of the primordial chaos before the world was formed. Following this, we will feature "Light Rays" by John Whitney, a piece that uniquely blends traditional orchestral sounds with modern jazz elements. Barbara Harbach's The Sound the Stars Make Rushing Through the Sky will be represented by the movement "Luna and Stella", a playful and rhythmic exchange between the moon and the stars. Cecile Chaminade's Concerto for Flute and Orchestra will showcase the flute in a sprightly and colorful display with a featured soloist. Finally, the orchestra will present the world premiere of "Alone in a World of Light" by Joshua A. Idio, a piece that promises to be a captivating exploration of light and sound.

The concert band will start with Alex Shapiro's "Lights Out" to open the half, offering a dynamic and energetic work that will inspire and entertain. Also, the concert will include "Unbroken" by Randall Standridge, a piece that embodies resilience and strength. You will love "Kaleidoscope Eyes" by Katahj Copley, a vibrant and imaginative work that captures the essence of a kaleidoscope. Nubia Jaime-Donjuan's Little Mexican Suite will bring a taste of Mexican culture with its lively and colorful melodies. Prepare to be amazed by these works and more with talent and creativity on display from our vibrant community musicians.

New Activations & Building Community

We're excited to introduce new activations this season! The joyful atmosphere of the Grand Lobby at our concerts is a real feature of our community. Our members, patrons, and new fans all come together to celebrate our community and to connect with friends old and new. Patrons are welcome to arrive early and order a drink to be prepped for intermission or to relax and visit with friends. We also have an information table where you can learn more about how to connect with Rainbow City.

Our new Billboard, created with love by member Pamela Bezona and unveiled at the Seattle Pride parade this summer offers you an opportunity to connect and support our organization in many ways. It is a grand display of our new branding and color schemes for each of our programs that you’ll enjoy as a feature of our community. We welcome anyone to connect with us in a way that is meaningful and uplifting!

We’re thrilled to feature a photo spot at our event, provided by Showtime Photo Booth with locations in Atlanta, Phoenix and Las Vegas. They will be bringing a unique touch to our occasion. Our new step-and-repeat photo spot created by member Liz Din, one of our key marketing volunteers in the Rainbow City Guild. You’ll love taking selfies and group photos with friends to show off what fun you’re having in our community.

Our goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone can feel a sense of belonging and connection. The photo spot and billboard are just two of the ways we're enhancing the concert experience and building a stronger, more engaged community.

Our Sponsor: UW Medicine's Office of Healthcare Equity

We are proud to partner with UW Medicine's Office of Healthcare Equity for our upcoming season. The Office of Healthcare Equity works tirelessly to promote fairness and inclusivity in healthcare, ensuring that all individuals have access to quality medical services regardless of their background. Their commitment to fostering an equitable healthcare environment aligns perfectly with Rainbow City's mission of celebrating diversity and promoting social justice through the arts.

UW Medicine's Office of Healthcare Equity is dedicated to addressing disparities in healthcare by implementing programs that support underserved communities. They engage in ongoing research, education, and outreach efforts to create a more inclusive healthcare system. This partnership allows us to highlight the importance of equity and inclusion, not only in the healthcare sector but also within our own community of musicians and supporters.

Through their generous support, we are able to continue our work of bringing diverse and uplifting musical performances to the community!

Secure Your Seats Today

Join us for an unforgettable season! Purchase your individual tickets or take advantage of our season tickets with group discounts. Let’s make this season the most memorable one yet! We look forward to seeing you at Benaroya Hall and sharing the magic of Rainbow City Performing Arts with you.

Your support helps us continue our mission of promoting equity and visibility for LGBTQIA+ communities through music. Together, we can create a more inclusive and vibrant community. Whether you choose to attend one concert or the entire season, your participation makes a difference. Help us spread the word and we can't wait to see you there!

At Rainbow City Performing Arts (RCPA), we believe in the transformative power of music to create joy, foster inclusivity, and drive positive change in our community. Today, we're thrilled to announce a significant step forward in our journey: the introduction of our Empowerment Board. This innovative approach to governance represents not just a change in structure, but a renewed commitment to our mission of celebrating LGBTQIA+ diversity and inclusion through musical expression.

For years, RCPA has been a beacon of hope and belonging for LGBTQIA+ musicians and music lovers in Seattle. Our seven diverse ensembles, from the Marching Band to the Orchestra, have brought music and joy to countless events and touched the lives of many. However, as we've grown, we've realized that to truly fulfill our potential and maximize our impact, we needed to evolve.

The concept of an Empowerment Board is rooted in the idea of mutual support and shared purpose. In this new model, our board members will focus their energy and expertise on empowering our organization through strategic fundraising and governance. In turn, our dedicated staff will empower the board to achieve their goals, providing the support and resources necessary for success. This symbiotic relationship creates a powerful engine for growth and impact, allowing us to reach more people, create more music, and spread more joy than ever before.

Long Term Reasoning

We're making this change because we care deeply about our mission and our community. In the past, our operating board consisted of passionate volunteers who poured their hearts into both day-to-day operations and long-term planning. While their dedication was admirable, it often led to burnout and inconsistent progress. We realized that to truly thrive, we needed a structure that would allow our volunteers to make the most meaningful impact without sacrificing their well-being or the organization's growth.

The Empowerment Board addresses these challenges head-on. By focusing on high-level strategy and fundraising, board members can leverage their unique skills and networks to drive RCPA forward. Meanwhile, our staff can manage daily operations more efficiently, ensuring that our programs run smoothly, and our musicians have the support they need to create beautiful, inspiring performances.

You Can Make An Impact

If you're reading this and feeling a spark of excitement, we invite you to consider joining us on this journey. We're seeking individuals who are passionate about creating a diverse, inclusive community through music. Perhaps you've attended one of our concerts and felt the electric energy of a Rainbow City performance. Maybe you're a longtime advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights and see the power of music to change hearts and minds. Or perhaps you're a business leader looking to make a meaningful impact in your community.

Joining our Empowerment Board is more than just a volunteer position – it's an opportunity to be part of a movement. As a board member, you'll play a crucial role in shaping the future of RCPA and, by extension, the cultural landscape of Seattle. You'll work alongside other passionate individuals to set ambitious goals, develop innovative strategies, and secure the resources we need to bring our vision to life.

We understand that taking on such a role is a significant commitment, and we want to ensure that it's as rewarding for you as it is for our organization. That's why we've set clear, achievable fundraising goals for our board members, ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 individually, with a collective board goal of $50,000 for the fiscal year. These targets are designed to be challenging yet attainable, providing a sense of purpose and accomplishment as you help drive our mission forward.

But the benefits of joining our Empowerment Board go far beyond fundraising. You'll have the opportunity to enhance your leadership skills, expand your professional network, and gain invaluable experience in nonprofit governance. You'll be recognized as a champion for social justice and the arts in our community. And perhaps most importantly, you'll have the joy of knowing that your efforts are directly contributing to a more inclusive, diverse, and vibrant Seattle.

For the Future

We're proud of what Rainbow City Performing Arts has accomplished so far, but we're even more excited about what the future holds. With our new Empowerment Board, we're poised to reach new heights, touch more lives, and create more moments of pure, unadulterated joy through music.

If you feel called to be part of this exciting new chapter, we encourage you to learn more and apply. Visit rainbowcity.org/empowermentboard to explore detailed information about the application process and board member responsibilities. Whether you're a seasoned nonprofit professional or a first-time board member, if you share our passion for music, inclusion, and community, there's a place for you here.

Together, we can create a symphony of change, weaving together diverse voices and experiences into a beautiful harmony of acceptance, empowerment, and joy. Join us as we embark on this new direction, and let's make music that moves not just our hearts, but our entire community forward.