Presents The Wailin’ Jennys, Center Salon, Comedy Underground and Black Box Jazz in May
May at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts is bursting with artistic energy, and there’s something extraordinary waiting for everyone. From the sharp, boundary-pushing comedy of rising Pacific Northwest star Paul Goodwin, to the genre-defying piano wizardry of award-winning jazz artist Marina Albero, to the beloved annual Center Salon celebrating our vibrant local creative community — the month offers a remarkable range of live performance. Not to mention the achingly beautiful three-part harmonies of the internationally acclaimed Wailin’ Jennys, sure to delight those lucky enough to have secured a ticket to this sold-out show. Whether you’re a longtime patron or discovering the Washington Center for the first time, May is the perfect moment to experience why live performance has the power to move, surprise, and connect us all.
Artists
Jill Barnes: Emcee and Vocalist
Alec Clayton: Author
Jennifer Hermann: Musician
Bethany Hermann: Musician
Jim Lynch: Author
Katya Miltimore: Poet
Rene Westbrook: Painter
May 7 at 7:30pm: Comedy Underground featuring Paul Goodwin! One night. Three comedians. Countless laughs. Comedy Underground returns to the Washington Center with another unforgettable evening of stand-up featuring three distinct comedic styles that will take you from everyday absurdities to unexpected revelations.
Headlining the night is Paul Goodwin — a rising star of the Pacific Northwest comedy scene with serious competition credits to back up the buzz. Born in Columbus, Mississippi and now calling Washington State home, Paul brings a sharp, one-of-a-kind perspective on the duality of southern life that is equal parts relatable and revelatory. He won Cozy Comedy’s 2025 Washington’s Funniest Mammal, and has shared the stage with acclaimed comedians including Hannibal Buress and Sam Miller. Whether you love observational humor, sharp storytelling, or lightning-quick wit, this show delivers.
Gabey Lucas will host the evening with Mike Coletta opening for Paul. Recommended for ages 18+.
May 8 at 8:00pm: Black Box Jazz: Marina Albero! Award-winning pianist and composer Marina Albero weaves a tapestry of sound that defies categorization, drawing from her rich multicultural background in Barcelona, Cuba, and Seattle. A musical polyglot fluent in jazz, flamenco, classical, and Latin traditions, Albero has captivated audiences worldwide with her innovative improvisational style and emotional depth. Her latest album A Nomad of Sound (2024) showcases her unique artistic voice alongside acclaimed musicians from New Orleans, building on her impressive collection of Golden Ear Awards and sold-out performances. Whether performing, teaching at Cornish College of the Arts, or curating innovative concert series, Marina creates musical experiences that are both intimately personal and universally moving.
May 9 at 7:30pm: Center Salon. An annual dynamic gathering that showcases many forms of artistic expression – from visual artists and writers to musicians, actors, comedians, and filmmakers. Each year brings a unique mix of performances and creative showcases where artists connect and audiences discover something extraordinary.
May 15 at 7:30pm: The Wailin’ Jennys! – SOLD OUT – This show is currently sold out. Please contact the Box Office if you would like to be added to the wait list. Please provide a phone number as we call patrons on the waitlist as seats become available.
Box Office:
– 360-753-8586
– boxoffice@washingtoncenter.org
Three distinct voices that together make an achingly perfect vocal sound. Experience the show-stopping harmonies, impressive instrumental prowess, or witty stage banter of one of today’s most beloved international folk acts.
In the Gallery:
Matriarch: Her – Story
Showing: April 30, 2026 – June 21, 2026
Artist Reception: May 20 from 5pm-7pm (free to the public)
Matriarch: Her – Story is a curated juxtaposition exploring personal identity and the essence of life through portraiture.
Artists: Roxann Murray & Andrea Edwards
Our three-floor gallery is open to the public for viewing by appointment (Monday through Friday from 12PM to 4PM), or to ticketed patrons 1 hour prior to an event. To schedule an appointment to view the gallery, or to fill out an application to be part of an exhibit in our gallery, please contact us here.
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The Washington Center offers military, low-income family (LIFT), and student rush discounts. More information can be found at https://www.washingtoncenter.org/events-and-tickets/box-office-information-help/
The Washington Center for the Performing Arts is a not-for-profit performance venue with a mission to inspire audiences and artists of all ages through live performances, enriching the vibrancy of our community.
For more information please contact:
Tineke Raak, Marketing and Sales Director
marketingdirector@washingtoncenter.org
- Box Office hours are Tuesday through Friday 12:00 pm – 5:30 pm and Saturday 12:00pm – 4:00pm.
- For ticketing questions or more information about upcoming events please visitwww.washingtoncenter.org or call the Box Office at 360-753-8586.
2025-2026 Calendar of Events – https://www.washingtoncenter.org/events/month/