Allied Arts of Yakima Valley
In 1951, Elon Gilbert gifted the building to the community on the condition that "said property shall be used solely and exclusively for theatrical, artistic and other public purposes." By 1962, the Allied Arts Council was formed to facilitate artistic purposes in Yakima; the group served as an umbrella organization for 15 arts groups in town at the time. Together, the Council brought the Seattle Symphony, Seattle Repertory Theatre, Metropolitan Opera Touring Co., and the Joffrey Ballet.
The second decade, 1972-1982, was a decade of growth and expansion, when Council funds were lent to start the Town Hall Lecture Series. The Council also advocated for the City's purchase of the Capitol Theatre and played a major role in the eventual reconstruction in 1975. Membership was opened to individuals as well as organizations. The Family Theatre Series began its run in 1983 and the ArtsVan launched its service to the community in 1985.
Allied Arts Council changed its official name and logo in the late 90's to Allied Arts of Yakima Valley to reflect arts service to communities throughout the Valley. In 1999, Yakima was chosen as Washington State's only site for participation in the nationwide "Artists and Communities: Americans Create for the Millennium" project. Internationally respected artist Wen-ti Tsen created the Millennium Arts Plaza in Downtown Yakima that now serves as a meeting place and symbol of our community.
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