Arts & Culture

Amabile Choir

Amabile is a multigenerational community choir committed to enhancing the musical experience in Kitsap county through choral music singing, collaborations, and performances that are accessible to all members of our community.

We perform at least six concerts a year, scheduled in the spring and during the holiday season. For the last two years, we’ve also performed “A Christmas Party with Amabile” at the Jewel Box Theatre in Poulsbo.

Our director, Sylvia Cauter, taught choral music at North Kitsap High School for 28 years. Under her leadership, we are actively pursuing collaborations with choirs from surrounding schools and other local community-based musical groups. This year, we are performing with the Sakai Intermediate Choir and the NKSH Vocal Point Jazz Choir.

Our mission is to educate and inspire singers and audience members by performing choral music with love and joyful intention. We hope to see you at one of our concerts!

Website:amabilechoir.org

Arts & Humanities Bainbridge

Arts & Humanities Bainbridge (AHB) serves as a dynamic force on Bainbridge Island, fostering connections between the arts, business, and community. AHB oversees the Bainbridge Creative District (BCD) and manages Currents, our online platform spotlighting the island’s arts and culture events.

Through the BCD and Currents, we showcase Bainbridge as a cultural destination, attracting visitors and enriching appreciation for our heritage. Our programs include a robust public art initiative, arts in education, individual artist grants, and a diverse events calendar featuring highlights such as the Spring Asian Arts & Heritage Festival and the Fall Arts Festival.

AHB’s efforts contribute to a vibrant community, where arts and humanities thrive, enhancing our quality of life and reinforcing Bainbridge as an engaging place to live, work, and explore. We facilitate connections and collaborations among cultural organizations, offering support through fiscal sponsorship and grants to emerging artists.

Website: www.AHBainbridge.org

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Bainbridge Arts & Crafts

Bainbridge Arts & Crafts fosters the creation and appreciation of fine contemporary art and craft by jurying, exhibiting, and representing the work of Northwest artists, and by offering arts education and outreach experiences to all ages throughout Kitsap County and the region.

Founded in 1948 by a group of ambitious, forward-thinking artists, craftspeople, and art educators, we are one of the region’s largest nonprofit galleries. We support the livelihood of more than 200 Northwest artists while serving youth, adults, and seniors each year through more than 100 free programs taking place inside and outside of our gallery space. We work to increase representation of diverse backgrounds, voices, and perspectives in all that we do.

Website: www.bacart.org

Bainbridge Band Boosters

Bainbridge Band Boosters supports the Bainbridge middle & high school band programs to provide students with a rewarding performing arts experience and to enrich our community with great performances and superior citizenship. At BHS, the Band Program features two concert bands, a percussion ensemble, two jazz ensembles, a competitive marching band, a competitive winterguard, jazz combos, a New Orleans Brass Band, and a robust chamber music program. Our students compete in, and routinely place highly in, regional and state music competitions. The program creates inspirational community events including our annual swing dance, performing at all home football games, hosting the Puget Sound Jazz Festival, and performing at area businesses and downtown festivities throughout the year. Bainbridge Bands are a wonderful place for students to strengthen music skills, learn leadership and team building, and give back to our community, and we are better with your support!

Website: https://www.bainbridgebands.org/

Bainbridge Book Festival

The Bainbridge Book Festival is a celebration of the literary arts, and we invite you to join us as we prepare for the inaugural event in October 2024. As a community of writers, readers, and book lovers, we’re excited to build on Bainbridge Island’s rich heritage and contribute to its thriving cultural scene. We’re looking for supporters who share our passion for reading. Your generous contribution will help us bring together authors, publishers, and readers from around the region and the country to celebrate the power of words and storytelling. The festival will feature talks from a diverse range of authors, plus book signings and sales. With the natural beauty of Bainbridge Island as a backdrop, visitors can also enjoy the island’s dining, shopping, and many cultural and outdoor activities. We hope you’ll support the Bainbridge Book Festival and help us create a memorable and enriching experience for all ages.

Website: www.bainbridgebookfestival.org

Bainbridge Chorale

The Bainbridge Chorale began in 1971 when a group of like-minded Bainbridge residents got together to sing and soon after began presenting choral concerts. Since our modest beginnings, we have grown in our scope and mission in ways our founders could never have envisioned. Thousands of voices have joined our adult and youth choirs over the years, sharing music of all genres with ever-growing audiences. Hundreds of our neighbors have enjoyed coming together to participate in our annual community singing events, open to all. But our mission goes beyond hosting events. We offer quality musical education to singers of all ages, and perform professional-level concerts with repertoire ranging from a cappella to choral-orchestral masterworks. We remain committed to our conviction that sharing the act of singing together touches the hearts of all who listen or participate, transcending our differences and evoking a healing sense of our shared humanity.

Website: www.bainbridgechorale.org

Bainbridge Community Piano Association

Bainbridge Community Piano Association owns and maintains the Yamaha C6 grand piano in Huney Hall at Waterfront Park Community Center. The association presents professional concerts of jazz and classical music in the concert series First Sundays Concerts, Sing Along and Sounds children’s series and sponsors community student recitals.

Website: www.firstsundaysconcerts.org

Bainbridge History Museum

The Bainbridge History Museum sparks curiosity and inspires connection, offering many perspectives, so visitors may reflect on, learn about, and celebrate the diverse stories of the Island.

The Museum’s iconic 1908 schoolhouse features a lively, beautiful, and provocative primary exhibit. “Our Community: Past to Present” illuminates diverse, beloved, and previously untold stories about Bainbridge Island. The exhibit showcases 13 individual Bainbridge communities, or groups of people, linked by heritage, work, or hobby. Combining historical content and elegant design with sensory, hands-on learning activities for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds, this elegant exhibit is full of information.

The Museum offers many programs and events throughout the year. The smaller Helen L. Bucey gallery features local exhibits and rotates annually. Please stop by for a visit Wednesday-Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm. Admission is free.

Website: bainbridgehistorymuseum.org

Bainbridge Island Downtown Association

Since 1992, Bainbridge Island Downtown Association (BIDA) has worked on key community events, downtown beautification, seasonal decorations, and economic vitality. BIDA’s mission is to create a vibrant, inclusive, beautiful, and dynamic downtown. Our goal is to strengthen our downtown for our local businesses, community, and out of town visitors alike, while preserving and celebrating the authenticity of Bainbridge as a unique place to live, work, visit, stay, dine, shop, and play. BIDA is recognized as the only accredited Main Street community in Kitsap County, and one of a handful of Washington accredited National Historic Main Streets by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. BIDA works throughout the year with Main Street America to preserve our historic character and support our local economy. We execute a variety of efforts, including the production of a hands-on Walkabout Guide, which invites, guides and educates visitors. We also develop, produce and market successful events such as the Third of July Street Dance, Art Walk, and the Hometown Halloween celebration.

Website: www.bainbridgedowntown.org

Bainbridge Island Film Festival

The Bainbridge Island Film Festival aims to bring together the communities of Bainbridge Island and Kitsap County in celebrating films and filmmakers from both around the corner and around the world. Through an annual festival, as well as year-round programming and initiatives, BIFF strives to bolster the local filmmaking and filmgoing communities of the island through diverse programming and engagement of films, panels, Q&A’s, and events.

Website: bifilmfest.org

Bainbridge Island Museum of Art

BIMA inspires curiosity, wonder and understanding by connecting people with the contemporary art and craft of the Puget Sound region. We are committed to providing free general admission everyday, made possible thanks to generous donors and members like you. We welcome visitors from all over the world to our ten gallery spaces rotated three times a year.

We are inspired by the community to keep evolving our program offerings each year to best fit the needs of the individuals and families in the region. These programs include, but are not limited to, educational programs, including field trips, summer camps, and hands-on art activities for students throughout the region, Creative Aging, which includes programs for people going through early stage memory loss, music and film festivals, including the Within/Earshot Jazz Festival, artist talks, workshops, and cultural celebrations including, Black History Month celebrations, and the Dia de los Muertos Celebration.

Website: www.biartmuseum.org

Bainbridge Island Poet Laureate Program

The mission of the Bainbridge Island Poet Laureate Program is to select individuals to serve as poets laureate for the community of Bainbridge Island and to support the then-serving poet laureate’s programs and events. As an advocate for the art of poetry, our poet laureate is a writer, teacher, host, and communicator who connects with individuals and community groups to promote the writing and enjoyment of poetry on Bainbridge Island. Activities include free poetry readings and workshops, bringing regional guest poets to Bainbridge, promoting National Poetry Month (April) through events such as the Poetry Corners exhibit in downtown Winslow, and celebrating our community’s cultural heritage through the spoken word. The Bainbridge Island Poet Laureate also serves as the City of Bainbridge Island civic poet. The Poet Laureate Program, a Washington nonprofit corporation, is fiscally sponsored by Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network (BARN).

Website: bainbridgeislandpoetlaureate.org

Bainbridge Island Youth Orchestra

The training orchestra for string musicians ages 7-18 on Bainbridge Island, BIYO provides students with the opportunity to perform orchestral music at a high degree of artistry while improving technical skills and fostering collaboration and community. Our tiered orchestra program allows students from beginner to advanced to benefit and grow from their involvement. We celebrate our performing artists with four annual free public concerts, collaborations with the Bainbridge Symphony Orchestra, an educational local school’s outreach program and festivals open to all area musicians. In order to increase access to music education, BIYO also sponsors an after school program for elementary-aged children to learn to play the violin, viola, or cello. Thank you for your support.

Website: www.biyo.us

Bainbridge Performing Arts

The quintessential heart of the island’s performing arts community, Bainbridge Performing Arts has served our community for almost 70 years. BPA’s beautiful new facility, The Buxton Center, is a gathering place for community members to engage with the performing arts through a diverse program of live theatre productions, performing arts education, symphony concerts from the Bainbridge Symphony Orchestra, monthly improv performances from The Edge Improv, and a wide variety of community events. BPA’s mission is to promote appreciation of and participation in the performing arts to build, educate, and inspire our vibrant, creative community.

Website: www.bainbridgeperformingarts.org

BARN — Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network

BARN is a nonprofit makerspace and hub of the creative community where beginners work alongside experienced artisans. 11 volunteer-run studios offer professional equipment, classes, open studios, and peer learning in Culinary Arts, Drawing & Painting, Fiber, Glass, Jewelry, Media, Metal, Printmaking & Book Arts, Tech, Woodworking & Small Boatbuilding, and Writing. BARN is committed to helping build a world where people recognize and value their creativity and capacity to contribute to their communities. Most classes, studios, and free events are open to members and guests; reduced fees are available for military and tribal members, students, teachers, and seniors. Financial assistance is available. Community service is a core value, and volunteers assist local organizations with dozens of projects each year.

Your support will help strengthen our community through craft and innovation. Make your gift today!

Website: bainbridgebarn.org

Bloedel Reserve

Bloedel Reserve is a 140-acre public garden and nature reserve. In addition to our awe-inspiring gardens, forests, and ponds, the Reserve is a hub for horticulture, conservation, creativity, and well-being. Fulfilling our mission includes providing exemplary care for our landscapes and historic facilities, developing free and low-cost public programs, training our dedicated volunteers, and supporting the ongoing professional development of our staff, who maintain all aspects of the organization. Over 50% of our essential costs are sustained through the generosity of donors like you. Today, we extend an invitation to donate in support of this community treasure. Your gift ensures the preservation of Bloedel Reserve’s beauty and the sustainability of its vital programs. We hope you’ll join us in creating a legacy of harmony with nature and inspiring future generations.

Website: www.bloedelreserve.org

Filipino American Community of Bainbridge Island & Vicinity

Built in 1928 by the Bainbridge Island Fair Association, the Filipino Community Hall has been used and maintained by the Filipino American Community since 1943. Formerly a receiving site for the National Canning Company during strawberry season, the Hall is now primarily used as a meeting and event center for residents of Bainbridge Island & Vicinity. The Hall was accepted into the National Register of Historic Places in 1995. Incorporated in 1990, the Filipino Community of Bainbridge Island & Vicinity (aka Fil-Am) maintains and uses the hall to practice and preserve the cultures, customs, and traditions of the founders. The hall is available for rent and is used by many community organizations. Fil-Am supports other non-profits and individuals in need through volunteerism. Our mission is to encourage and bestow these values to our families and friends for continued support of the community.

Website: www.facebook.com/groups/124849510973457/

inD Theatre

inD Theatre produces independent theatrical events in order to inspire social change, provide artist stipends and offer free admission so all community members may attend. We are a Washington State nonprofit corporation that is fiscally sponsored by Shunpike, a Seattle-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency that provides independent arts groups the services, resources, and opportunities they need for sustainable success.

Website: www.indtheatre.org

Indipino Community of Bainbridge Island & Vicinity

The Indipino Community of Bainbridge Island and Vicinity originated from 36 intermarriages of Filipino immigrant men and Indigenous women (19 different tribes) who worked for Japanese American berry farmers in the 1930s as field bosses or berry pickers. Many of their 150 children born were raised in poverty and homes without electricity or indoor plumbing. Multigenerational trauma was passed on to their Indipino children because of their mothers’ forced assimilation growing up in Indian Residential Schools. Their fathers immigrated to the US believing in democracy, having been raised in American modeled schools during the US occupation of the Philippines. Instead, upon docking at the Port of Seattle, they were met with blatant racism, discrimination and violence. Both parents witnessed the military forced removal of their Japanese American friends. By developing culturally responsive educational resources that foster social and racial justice, we aspire to build a more inclusive and equitable community.

Website: indipinocommunityofbainbridgeisland.org

Island Theatre

Island Theatre provides high quality theater in intimate settings for adults who like to think. We perform dramatic staged reading productions at the Bainbridge Public Library. We host potluck dinner and play readings in private homes, where guests are welcome to just listen or to read a part. We also host an annual Ten Minute Play Festival, showcasing original plays by professional and aspiring Kitsap County playwrights, and featuring local actors and directors. Run entirely by volunteers, Island Theatre is supported by your individual donations, Bainbridge Community Foundation, COBI Cultural Funding, and One Call For All. Most productions are free to the community with donations gratefully accepted. Since its inception in 1994, Island Theatre has presented close to 200 plays at the library and on other community stages.

Website: www.IslandTheatre.org

Kids Discovery Museum

Kids Discovery Museum (KiDiMu) is a nonprofit children’s museum and hub for early childhood development, creating experiences centered on playful learning that supports the broader community and children’s current and emerging needs. Since 2003, families all over Kitsap and neighboring counties have come to rely on KiDiMu as a haven of educational play opportunities for their families. Focusing on early childhood education, KiDiMu houses exhibits that encourage imaginary play and scientific inquiry; offering art projects, special events, workshops, camps, educational activities, and programming.

Website: kidimu.org

Kids in Concert

Kids in Concert was founded on the idea that every child should be able to access the benefits of music education, with no barriers. Our mission is to cultivate compassion and developmental well-being of youth through the healing power of music. KIC does not charge tuition or require an audition to join. We provide an instrument, music instruction, a healthy after-school snack, and social-emotional support, all at no cost to our families. The students can choose violin, viola, cello, bass, or percussion and they all sing in the KIC Choir. In addition, we offer a two-week musical theater summer camp that is written, designed, choreographed, and directed by our teenage mentors.

Website: www.kidsinconcert.org

Music Discovery Center

MDC is a countywide organization providing increased access to music through programs primarily aimed at youth and young adults in economic or social need.

• INSTRUMENTS FOR LIFE We collect and professionally refurbish good quality used music instruments and gift them to low-income middle and high school band and orchestra students in all Kitsap County school districts. The “new” instrument is theirs for life.

• “FIRST TOUCH” MUSIC PROGRAM Conducted weekly by MDC volunteers at a 350-student Bremerton public charter school that does not yet have a music program or music teacher.

• “MORE THAN MUSIC” SCHOLARSHIPS Offered annually at a sound recording studio to low-income or struggling teens and young adults searching for a different way to express themselves musically. These sessions can lead to a real job in the music industry.

• Every June 21st in downtown Bremerton MDC produces Kitsap’s version of the worldwide, free, open-to-all public event MAKE MUSIC DAY.

Website: www.musicdiscoverycenter.org

Neurodiversity Allies

The mission of Neurodiversity Allies is to bring the joy of live theatre and other arts experiences to neurodivergent community members. Anyone and everyone should be able to experience theatre and art. Neurodiversity Allies advocates for the neurodivergent community and enables theaters of all sizes to bring Sensory Accessibility and inclusion to their productions. Neurodiversity Allies then promotes these inclusive events to the community. Creating Sensory-Friendly performances, Sensory Guides, and Social Narratives is expensive, important work that is simply not possible without the generosity and help of community members who care about inclusion. Theatre and art organizations typically do not have excess cash, and Neurodiversity Allies subsidizes up to 100% of the cost, removing the financial barrier to adding Sensory Accessibility and inclusion to live performances.

Website: ndallies.org

Ovation! Performing Arts Northwest

Ovation! Performing Arts Northwest presents quality theatrical productions by and for our community while engaging all age groups in enriching theatrical and arts education experiences. Ovation! produces one to two mainstage productions per year and operates education programs that span multiple stages of life and foster interaction between diverse age groups. Programming includes Crescendo, an adult vocal ensemble; the Northwest Young Actor’s Studio; and summer Glee camps for youth and adults. Founded in 2003 as a volunteer run organization, Ovation! has produced thirty-seven shows in twenty-one years. As a teaching organization, Ovation! has produced top-notch talent nurtured by first-class educators.

Website: www.ovationmtb.com

WEAVE Presents

Based out of Rolling Bay Hall, WEAVE Presents is a nonprofit performing arts and education organization that hosts international musicians, showcases our local independent arts community, and invites audiences to acknowledge & celebrate the multi-ethnic roots of American culture. WEAVE partners with Bainbridge Island artists and nonprofits who resonate with our mission by offering them an all ages venue, high quality bar service, supplemental marketing channels, and access to our growing fan base. We host fundraisers for nonprofits and performances for artists across the island. and beyond. WEAVE fosters connection by creating an intimate, welcoming, and cozy ambiance. In contrast to our high-tech, touch-screen world, we are committed to gathering often around intentional programming in an inclusive environment to strengthen friendships and facilitate new bonds within our community. Help us sustain an artist-centered, all-ages, equity-based community venue right here on Bainbridge Island.

Website: weavepresents.org