The Kids Korner summer camp at the historic Tacoma Armory. | Photo courtesy of Tacoma Armory
New Tacoma Arts Live CEO Katie Stricker considers her historic office space a neighborhood heirloom, something too special to keep tucked away.
She wants the community to see it.
Tacoma Arts is located in the Tacoma Armory, a building completed in 1908 that originally served as a training facility and arms storage site for the Washington State National Guard. Back then, it also served as a social hub, hosting everything from parties to galas, sports events and concerts.
That tradition continues. After receiving the Armory as a gift from Fred Roberson and his family in 2022, Tacoma Arts Live is now offering the historic venue as a flexible home for events of all kinds. It offers a range of unique spaces for rent, including a 20,000-square-foot parade floor, the intimate Eleanor Roosevelt Room, flexible studio spaces and multiple office suites.
“We want to deliver the most service in the most sustainable manner,” says Stricker, who has worked at the organization in various capacities the past 19 years. She was officially named CEO late last month. “That is through our arts education programs and through activation, and really making the Armory a home for artists, businesses, community.”
Pink Martini played at the Tacoma Armory in January. | Photo courtesy of the Tacoma Armory.
The Armory has a storied past. Several presidents have visited, according to History Link, including William Howard Taft, Woodrow Wilson and Harry Truman, who delivered a speech there in 1952. Back in 1909, an estimated 5,000 people showed up for the funeral of Washington Congressman Francis W. Cushman. More recently, it hosted a major Van Gogh Exhibit in 2022.
Today, the Armory hosts events for numerous organizations. It has hosted a literature festival, gymnastics tournaments, quinceañeras (a Latin American and Latino celebration of a girl’s 15th birthday) and retirement parties. It is also home to Arts at the Armory and Tomorrowland Roller Derby.
The new Live at the Eleanor series kicks off Sept. 18, bringing regional performers into the Eleanor Room for a lineup featuring flamenco, indie rock, improv comedy, modern dance, jazz, silent disco and more. The Armory will also host Boo Five Three in October, an autumn twist on Tacoma’s beer, cider and music festival. Boo Five Three is the longest-running beer festival in Tacoma.
“This is a moment of possibility for Tacoma Arts Live,” Stricker says. “If people want to know more about our programs or who we are, or if they have an idea they want to share with us, you can come to the Armory Monday through Friday. We are here right in the first office, and I'd love to talk to people.”