Pacific Northwest Performing Arts is raising the curtain on a new chapter with a grand opening celebration and scholarship fundraiser on September 13 at their brand-new Snoqualmie Ridge facility.
The performing arts organization, formerly known as Big Star Studios, will host “100 for $100: Raise the Curtain Grand Opening” from 6 to 9 p.m. at 35332 SE Center Street. The event combines community celebration with fundraising for scholarships that make performing arts accessible to students regardless of financial circumstances.
“Our primary goal is to raise significant funds for our scholarship program so that more families can access high-quality performing arts education, regardless of financial barriers,” said Katrina Gangsaas, Vice President of fundraising for Big Star Boosters. “We want to ensure that every student who has the passion and drive to participate can do so.”
The celebration will feature appetizers and drinks, live entertainment by teachers and students, raffle prizes, silent auction items, behind-the-scenes facility tours, and shopping with local vendors. All proceeds benefit the scholarship fund administered by the nonprofit Big Star Boosters.
Rebranding Reflects Growth and Vision
Owner and Program Director Corey Schwarz explained that the rebrand from Big Star Studios to Pacific Northwest Performing Arts reflects 14 years of growth and expanded vision.
“The rebrand was inspired by our growth and the incredible community we’ve built over the last 14 years,” Schwarz said. “Big Star Studios has been a home for creativity, training, and friendship, but as our programs expanded, we wanted a name that reflected both our regional reach and our vision for the future.”
The new name signals the organization’s mission to serve as a regional performing arts hub rather than just a local studio.
“Our new name aligns with our mission to be a hub for performing arts in the Pacific Northwest—not just a local studio, but a place where students can train, perform, and connect at a professional level,” Schwarz said. “We’re focused on creating opportunities that prepare our students for the next stage of their artistic journeys, whether that’s performing at professional local theatres, college programs, or simply a lifelong love of the arts.”
Professional-Grade Facility
The new Snoqualmie Ridge location represents a significant upgrade from the previous space, designed to inspire students and families while providing professional-level training facilities.
“Our new space is designed to capture the energy of a professional, city-style arts center—right here in the heart of the Snoqualmie Valley,” Schwarz said. “From the moment you walk in, it feels like stepping into an urban, world-class studio.”
The facility includes three spacious rehearsal studios, four private lesson rooms, a dedicated dance room with a floating dance floor, and two student lounge areas where families can gather and collaborate.
Scholarship Program Removes Barriers
The scholarship fund addresses financial obstacles that prevent students from participating in performing arts programs. Recipients are selected through a confidential application process considering both financial need and artistic commitment.
“Scholarships can cover tuition for classes, private lessons, production fees, and even performance-related costs such as costumes or competition expenses,” Gangsaas explained. Beyond scholarships, Big Star Boosters provides enrichment opportunities to help students perform at the highest level while fostering community and belonging.
Community members can support the program through direct contributions, student sponsorships, monthly donations, or business partnerships. The organization also plans to offer “Pay What You Can” community theatre classes on Mondays, taught by Eric Ankrim, making classes accessible at any price point.
Growing Community Interest
The rebrand and new facility have generated significant community excitement, according to Gangsaas.
“The rebrand to Pacific Northwest Performing Arts and the opening of our new, state-of-the-art facility have sparked a lot of excitement with our current families and beyond,” she said. “We’ve seen students enrolling, increase in our social media channels, and greater interest from community members who want to get involved.”
Upcoming Performances
The community can look forward to an active performance schedule from the new facility. Pacific Northwest Performing Arts will present Beetlejuice the Musical and Legally Blonde at Carco Theatre in Renton on August 22 and 23, followed by Shrek the Musical beginning in September with performances in January.
“In addition to our seasonal musicals and three time a year showcases, we’ll be hosting more guest artist workshops, and special events in our brand-new space,” Schwarz said. “It’s going to be a space where the community can come together to celebrate storytelling, talent and the magic of music and theatre!”
The September 13 grand opening event serves as both community celebration and fundraising launch for an organization committed to ensuring performing arts remain accessible to all Snoqualmie Valley students. Tickets are available through the organization’s social media channels and website.
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