Why Art Matters with Ida Cole, Founder of Seattle Theatre Group

Living Fully Conversations

The creation and appreciation of art is universal across countries, cultures, and classes, yet at the same time it's very personal. Does that make it worth studying, funding, or doing? Does art matter? These questions arise in conversations among community leaders, philanthropists, and educators. While they may not be asked so candidly, they are answered with the decisions we make and the direction we take as a society. My wife and I have been supporters of the arts for many years, and one of the organizations that we choose to support is Seattle Theatre Group (STG). Their mission is to create enriching experiences in the arts, engage diverse communities, and steward historic theaters. This organization wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for today's guest, Ida Cole. Before leaving her 22-year long career in the early 90's, Ida was the first female VP at Microsoft. Although she had reached significant financial success, she was determined to find more meaning and purpose in life. She began her new journey by traveling the world. Ida learned French in France, how to cook in Italy, and even worked on an archeological dig in Tunisia. Once she was back home, she attended a rock concert at the Paramount Theatre and was captivated by the historic charm and beauty of the space. She also noticed that it was beginning to fall apart. The Paramount Theatre had been an integral part of Seattle’s history since its opening in 1928. It was a place where generations of Pacific Northwesterners attended movies, concerts, and Broadway musicals. It looked like its 65-year run had come to an end. As she saw other historic theaters being torn down all over the city, Ida decided to dedicate her efforts to the Paramount’s survival by forming a group of investors made up of former Microsoft colleagues -- including Bill Gates himself. After a nearly $30 million renovation, the Paramount has been restored to its former glory and is now a thriving historic theatre in the heart of downtown Seattle. Seattle Theatre Group has continued stewardship of the theatre in Ida's vision. In addition to the Paramount, STG operates and maintains the historic Moore and Neptune Theatres. You can find out more about Ida Cole, Seattle Theatre Group, and The Paramount Theatre by visiting www.stgpresents.org. To learn more about turning meaningful wealth into a meaningful life filled with passion and purpose, connect with me on social media at @jcchristianson or send me an email at [email protected] Music: "Day Is Gonna Come" by Royal Deluxe