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30 Years
experience
Experience the Arts at Whidbey Island Center for the Arts
Founded in 1996, Whidbey Island Center for the Arts (WICA) is a community-driven organization dedicated to enriching lives through shared artistic experiences. Our mission is to bring art to the heart of our community, fostering a deeper sense of belonging and humanity. With a volunteer Board of Directors representing diverse professional sectors and a passionate staff team, we produce and present arts, educational initiatives, and cultural events that celebrate creativity and connection. Our programming includes theatre, dance, film, music, and humanities, alongside flagship events like DjangoFest NW and the Whidbey Island Film Festival. We prioritize accessibility through initiatives such as free youth admission, senior discounts, and pay-what-you-will performances, ensuring the arts remain inclusive for all.

Over 250 volunteers contribute 15,000 hours annually to support our work, which sustains over 600 regional and international artists each year. As the largest arts employer on Whidbey Island, we are committed to fiscal responsibility, artistic excellence, and embedding justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion into every aspect of our operations. Our facilities serve as a hub for community engagement, offering spaces for collaboration, education, and cultural exchange. Through strategic partnerships and community outreach, we continue to expand our impact, strengthening the cultural and economic vitality of our region.
Services
Theatre Productions Arts Education Lasher Gallery DjangoFest NW Film Festival Pay-What-You-Wish Performances Senior Discounts Free Youth Admission Volunteer Programs Community Partnerships
Details
  • Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
  • We have over 25 years of experience as Whidbey Island's leading arts organization.
  • Our programming includes internationally acclaimed events like DjangoFest NW.
  • We offer free admission for youth and pay-what-you-will performances.
  • We employ over 600 regional and international artists annually.
  • Our facilities and programs prioritize accessibility and community engagement.
Services
Theatre Productions
WICA produces and presents professional theatre productions year-round, featuring local and international talent. Our stages host diverse genres from contemporary dramas to classic plays, with special series like the Family Series Student Matinees for educational engagement. Ticket options include standard, star, and discounted rates for accessibility.
DjangoFest NW
This five-day gypsy jazz festival celebrates Django Reinhardt's legacy with performances by global artists. Attendees enjoy workshops, jam sessions, and evening concerts. The event contributes over $325,000 annually to the local economy through tourism and partnerships with island businesses.
Arts Education
We offer educational programs for all ages, including artist workshops, school partnerships, and community art projects. Initiatives like free youth admission and school matinees provide hands-on learning experiences, fostering creativity and cultural appreciation across generations.
Lasher Gallery
Our gallery showcases works by local and regional artists through rotating exhibits. The space hosts openings, artist meet-and-greets, and special collections like the Whidbey Island Fair selections. Featured pieces are available for purchase, supporting both artists and the local arts community.
Film Festival
The Whidbey Island Film Festival presents classic and contemporary films with guest speakers, lectures, and Shorts Fest competitions. Special events include filmmaker Q&As and themed weekends, combining cinematic art with community dialogue and educational programming.
People
Nancy Pearl
Executive Director
Nancy Pearl leads WICA's strategic vision, leveraging decades of arts administration experience. She oversees programming, partnerships, and organizational growth while championing accessibility initiatives.
Suzie Reynolds
Volunteer Coordinator
Suzie manages WICA's 250+ volunteer network, coordinating 15,000 annual service hours. Her work ensures seamless event operations and community engagement through structured volunteer programs.
Questions
What types of performances does WICA offer?
We present theatre, dance, film, music, and humanities programming, including DjangoFest NW, the Whidbey Island Film Festival, and family-friendly matinees.
Are there discounts for seniors or students?
Seniors receive discounted tickets, and youth under 18 get free admission to eligible shows through our community access initiatives.
Can I volunteer at WICA?
Yes! Over 250 volunteers contribute annually. Contact our Volunteer Coordinator to join ushering, event planning, or administrative support teams.
How do ticket pricing and fees work?
Standard tickets start at $30, with Star Tickets at $45. Online purchases include a $2 fee, waived for Artisan members. Special rates apply for matinees, films, and art talks.
What accessibility options exist?
We offer 20 for 20 discounted tickets, pay-what-you-will performances, and ADA-compliant seating. Most events allow advance purchase of accessible seats through our box office.
How can I support WICA financially?
Support through annual funds, planned giving, sponsorships, or event donations. Contributions fund artist fees, educational programs, and facility improvements while offering tax deductions.
Reviews (4)
Sue Frause
Jun 09, 2022 Report
It's my hometown venue for theatre, music, literary, dance and more. What a gift to have this in our community!
Fredzo
Dec 17, 2021 Report
A beautiful place. Intimate venue. We enjoyed the Whidbey Symphony for our anniversary last night. A great blessing to have a place where we can hear our neighbors perform such great music!
Jeff Miller
Nov 25, 2021 Report
Price: $$$ / $$$$ Fun experience and nice auditorium. Love the bar too, but it could benefit from more bartenders and selection.
Cierra Arnold
Nov 16, 2021 Report
Community center is great! Lost a star because they don't have that they are checking vaccination cards on the website. I went to the comedy show last night which was great! They had a snack and drink concession and a mini bar. Seating area was spaced appropriately with a good view of the stage.