Frequently Asked Questions

Theatre Location 
The Federal Way Performing Arts and Event Center (or PAEC) is located at 31510 Pete von Reichbauer Way South in Federal Way, 98003. We are across S 316th Street from Town Square Park and across S 314th Street.

The PAEC is conveniently located 20 minutes SEA airport, and just up 21st Avenue S from the Federal Way Transit Center – the newest Light Rail station on the south end. To catch a bus from downtown Seattle to the PAEC, take the King County 577 from Second Avenue and Marion Street — exit at the Federal Way Transit Center. On weekdays until 8pm, the 577 runs about every 20 minutes. To catch a bus from downtown Tacoma to the PAEC, take the Pierce County 500 or 501 from Pacific Avenue, across the street from the Washington State History Museum – exit at the Federal Way Transit Center.  Both the 500 and 501 run about every 20 minutes on weekdays. For more information on public transportation and to plan your trip, visit https://tripplanner.kingcounty.gov/.

Box Office Location and Hours  
Our box office is located just inside the main entrance to the PAEC and to the right. Our hours are Monday – Friday, 10am – 2pm. Additionally, the box office will be open 90 minutes prior to each performance to facilitate Will Call and sales for that performance. We are closed on some holidays — please call the Box Office at 253-835-7010 for the most up-to-date information.

Parking 
The PAEC provides ample parking, including ADA and Low Emissions vehicle spaces, within our parking lot. Additional parking is available within the Hillside Plaza Shopping Center or at the Federal Way Transit Center (on weekends).

Tickets

Purchasing Tickets

 

Please note that the PAEC can only guarantee tickets purchased via our website or Box Office. All ticket purchases are final and cannot be refunded.

Lost or forgotten tickets? Call 253-835-7010 or stop by one of our Will Call windows beginning 90 minutes before the start of a performance.

Inclement Weather 
It is rare for a performance at the Performing Arts and Event Center to be canceled due to inclement weather, but in the case that a show is canceled, we will post information on our website, social media and phone system and will make every effort to contact all affected ticket holders.

Student Matinees 
Tickets are $5 each for students outside of the Federal Way School District, with no additional fees or taxes, unless otherwise noted, and are available now. For more information about student matinees or Arts 4 Youth, email Rebekah.Tedder@oakviewgroup.com.

Accessibility 
The PAEC offers a variety of accessibility services to our patrons, including but not limited to a variety of ADA accessible seating, Braille and large print programs and a state of the art hearing loop within our lobby, event spaces and auditorium. Listening devices may be rented through the box office on the day of your performance. For more information and to request services, please contact the Box Office at 253-835-7010.

Bringing Children
The PAEC admits all children, regardless of age, as long as all patrons have a ticket. For information about the content of a certain performance, please call the Box Office or visit our site pages regarding each show.

Dress Code 
While there is no formal dress code at the PAEC many patrons dress as they would for a special occasion. A shirt, shoes and bottoms are required; layers are highly recommended.

Food & Drink 
Refreshments and snacks are available at the Ellingson Bar and Café in our lobby before each performance through our in-house caterer, Spectra. All items purchased from the Ellingson Bar and Café can be brought inside the theater. The PAEC is also conveniently located across 320th street from the Federal Way Commons, which includes food-court style Greek, Latin, Hawaiian, American and Italian cuisine.

Prohibited Items

Please do not bring the following items into the venue:

  • Outside food or beverages (including alcohol)
  • Bottles, cans, coolers, or liquid containers
  • Illegal or prohibited substances and paraphernalia
  • Firearms, explosives, fireworks, or weapons of any kind (including but not limited to guns, knives, multi-tools, metal chains, mace, etc.)
  • Projectiles or throwable items
  • Laser pointers, lasers, markers, or aerosol cans
  • Noisemakers or noise-making devices (e.g., horns, whistles, etc.)
  • Cameras, GoPros, audio/video recording equipment, iPads, laptops, or similar devices
  • Large banners, signs, stickers, or unapproved flyers/pamphlets
  • Inflatable objects (e.g., beach balls, balloons, etc.)
  • Strollers or car seats
  • Briefcases or luggage
  • Umbrellas
  • Costume masks or other face coverings
  • Pets or animals (Service Animals are welcome in accordance with ADA guidelines)
Please note: Additional items may be prohibited at the discretion of venue management or event promoters. Items may be added to or removed from this list as required for specific events.

Getting Involved

How do I donate to the PAEC? 
Did you know that ticket sales only cover a portion costs here at the PAEC? Furthermore, the Arts Foundation Federal Way, which makes our Arts4Youth programming possible operates solely on your support! You can donate here.

Our Patron’s Box Office is now open for in-person ticket sales with limited hours as follows

Box Office Hours:

On event days our Box Office will open 90 minutes prior to the posted event start time.

Masks Optional:  While masks are not required here, please respect those who choose to wear one.

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Western Washington from noon on July 15 to 10 p.m. on July 16. In response, Mayor Ferrell is opening the Federal Way Community Center (FWCC) as a cooling center during regular business hours on these days.

The FWCC will be open on July 15 and 16 from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. The cooling center is free to the public, but no pets are allowed. Stay safe during the heat!

Box Office

Please note that our Box Office will be closed on August 26th & 27th. During this time, tickets can be purchased online only. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding!