About Revolution Hall
Revolution Hall is an operating concert and performing arts venue at 1300 SE Stark Street in Portland’s Buckman neighborhood. The auditorium is commonly described as holding approximately 830 to 850 people, although its sellable capacity changes with the seating plan. It occupies the heart of the former Washington High School, combining a proscenium theater and wraparound balcony with removable floor seating, modern production equipment, bars, a smaller performance room, and a seasonal rooftop deck.
The site’s educational history reaches back to 1867. Portland’s first eastside high school opened here in 1906 and was initially known as East Side High School before becoming Washington High School. That Richardsonian Romanesque building was devastated by fire on October 25, 1922. Its reinforced-concrete, Classical Revival replacement was constructed in 1923 and opened for students in 1924, with the auditorium serving school assemblies, lectures, theater and music until the school closed in 1981. Alumni included pioneering chef James Beard and Nobel laureate Linus Pauling.
After closure, the building passed through several proposed uses and spent long periods largely empty. It became an occasional arts space, most notably hosting Portland Institute for Contemporary Art’s Time-Based Art Festival between 2009 and 2013. Developers acquired the property for $2 million in 2013, beginning a roughly $20 million adaptive-reuse project that preserved the auditorium while introducing offices, restaurants and event facilities. Revolution Hall held an initial concert opening on February 12, 2015, followed by a broader spring program featuring Neko Case, Live Wire, Kathleen Hanna, Welcome to Night Vale and the von Trapps.
The restoration retained the atmosphere of a public school rather than disguising it. Visitors still encounter broad corridors, lockers, slate chalkboards, vintage clocks, teacher cabinets, trophy displays and original auditorium details. Brick and terra-cotta façades were restored, replica energy-efficient windows were installed where necessary, and elevators, new restrooms, modern mechanical systems and ADA improvements were added. Acoustic isolation allows concerts to coexist with offices elsewhere in the 113,000-plus-square-foot building.
Events and Programming
Revolution Hall fills an important space between Portland’s intimate clubs and its major theaters. Its calendar mixes indie rock, folk, punk, metal, electronic music, jazz, world music, comedy, podcasts, radio tapings, author conversations, film presentations and community events. Some artists play multiple nights because the room is intimate enough for a close audience connection but large enough to support nationally touring productions. All-ages, 18-and-over and 21-and-over events all appear on the schedule.
Programming since the return of indoor performances in 2021 demonstrates that range. Recent years have included The Black Angels, Gary Numan, Guided by Voices, Built to Spill, Mild High Club, Unwound, Fatoumata Diawara, DakhaBrakha and events associated with the Portland Jazz Festival. The 2024 calendar brought performers such as Cat Power, Future Islands, Nation of Language, Blonde Redhead and Perfume Genius, alongside comedy recordings, book conversations and a local album celebration by the Decemberists.
In 2025, the hall hosted acts including Djo, Regina Spektor, TV on the Radio and The Mars Volta, again balancing rising performers, established alternative artists and special album-focused shows. Its 2026 programming has ranged from Pavement, Bill Callahan, Cat Power, Gillian Welch and David Rawlings, and Helado Negro with Reyna Tropical to Jordan Jensen, Jonathan Van Ness, live comedy podcasts, film commentary, jazz and dance parties. As of August 23, 2026, its forward calendar already extended into 2027 with punk, electronic and anniversary-tour bookings, confirming that it remains active under the Revolution Hall name.
Most main-auditorium events fall broadly in the $30 to $55 range before fees, based on recent listings, although high-demand comedy, reserved seating and special productions can exceed $70. Local performances and recurring activities in the smaller Show Bar can cost considerably less, and some songwriter, jam and community nights are free. Prices depend on the artist, seating section and promoter rather than a fixed venue tariff.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets should be purchased through the venue’s authorized sales channel or its in-person kiosks. One kiosk is inside Show Bar, with another at a sister venue, and availability is subject to the individual event. Sales are generally final and nonrefundable. If a performance is canceled, postponed or substantially changed, instructions are normally sent directly to purchasers. Door sales are uncommon for a genuine sellout, and Revolution Hall does not operate a general waiting list.
Popular shows can sell out within minutes, especially multi-night appearances by cult artists, comedy tapings and limited reserved-seat productions. Watch for the announced public sale time, create any required customer account beforehand and complete the purchase promptly. Ticket limits, delayed delivery and order screening may be used to reduce automated purchasing and resale activity. Avoid unofficial resale listings whose prices or ticket validity cannot be confirmed.
Seating and Layout
Five basic configurations are used: a standing main floor with general-admission balcony seating; fully seated general admission; fully seated reserved seating; a partial standing area near the stage with seating behind it; and a film layout that removes certain obstructed balcony-side seats. The floor seating system is removable, so the room experienced at a comedy show may look very different during a punk or electronic concert.
For a close, energetic music experience, the general-admission floor is the natural choice, but shorter visitors should arrive early for the rail or look for an open sightline near the centrally positioned sound desk. The center balcony is preferable when a guaranteed seated view and balanced room sound matter more than proximity. Extreme side seats can lose part of the stage behind a handrail or the auditorium’s curvature, although the venue reports that most seats marked “obstructed view” still provide a usable view.
Many auditorium seats preserve the school-theater character and can feel firm during a long program. Center sections are generally the safest choice for comedy, lectures and visually detailed productions. At standing shows, verify whether floor and balcony access are sold separately; a floor ticket does not necessarily guarantee use of balcony seating. Accessible locations are assigned according to each event’s configuration and should be arranged in advance.
Stage, Sound and Production
The fixed wooden stage measures 33 feet wide by 22 feet deep, with small tapered wings. Its proscenium opening is 38 feet wide and 21 feet high, while the grid is approximately 32 feet above the stage. The venue has a motorized front traveler curtain, fixed upstage drapery, a pipe for lightweight backdrops, modular risers, three 100-amp three-phase power services and permanent truss systems for stage, front-of-house lighting and the flown PA.
The current technical package centers on a Midas HD96 front-of-house console. The main sound system includes eight Meyer JM1-P powered speakers, four UPJ-1P fills, two VUE Audiotechnik AS-418 subwoofers, front lip fills and under-balcony speakers. This distributed design is one reason sound is frequently praised on both levels, although results still depend on each touring engineer and production. A substantial Fulcrum monitor package, house microphones, direct boxes and digital stage infrastructure support touring acts.
Lighting is controlled through a GrandMA2 Light console and includes Vari-Lite profile fixtures, Clay Paky LED washes, blinders, color fixtures, a hazer and a mirror ball. Two installed projectors support film, presentations and multimedia work, including a 10,000-class-lumen system capable of computer resolutions up to 1920 by 1200 and a separate full-HD widescreen projector.
Getting There and Parking
Revolution Hall stands at 1300 SE Stark Street, close to SE 14th Avenue and about a mile east of downtown across the Willamette River. The small guest parking lot is entered from SE 14th Avenue. Event parking is currently offered after 6 p.m. for approximately $12, subject to availability. Vehicles displaying an ADA placard can use the attached guest lot without charge. Never block residential driveways or production spaces.
Nearby street spaces are limited and fill quickly. Blocks immediately around the building can have short time limits, while streets east of SE 15th Avenue commonly offer longer or all-day parking. Always follow posted signs because restrictions, construction and temporary event controls can change. Allow at least 20 extra minutes if driving to a sold-out show.
Public transit is often easier. Bus 70 stops at SE 11th and Stark, about a minute’s walk away. Bus 15 serves SE Morrison at 12th, approximately four minutes away. Buses 12, 19 and 20 stop around East Burnside and SE 12th, about six minutes north. Portland Streetcar’s B Loop stops at SE Grand and Stark, while the A Loop uses SE Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Stark; both are roughly a seven- to eight-minute walk.
No permanent dedicated rideshare zone is advertised. Use a legal curb location near the Stark Street entrance, avoid stopping across crosswalks or driveways, and remember that SE 14th may be occupied by artist vehicles and loading operations. Cycling is practical from the Central Eastside and downtown bridges, with bike-share availability around the property, but secure any personal bicycle carefully and keep sidewalks and accessible ramps clear.
Inside the Venue
The principal public entrance is at street level near the marquee at Stark and 14th. Small bags and jackets may be searched. Handbags must be smaller than 10 by 10 by 6 inches, and larger bags must be checked or left elsewhere. The latest posted coat-check rate is $5 for coats and $8 for bags, payable by card; treat these as guide prices because operating charges can change. Weapons, outside alcohol, illegal drugs, fireworks, replica weapons, large signs, costume masks, musical instruments and disruptive noisemakers are prohibited.
Show Bar serves burgers, pizza, fries and drinks, while Martha’s functions as a café and pre- or post-show gathering space. Food and beverages bought inside the building can usually be taken into the auditorium, but glass containers cannot. Additional bars near the auditorium help distribute intermission traffic. Merchandise is normally sold from tables in the front lobby.
The Roof Deck is generally open from April through October when weather and private events permit, with occasional off-season openings on mild nights. It offers broad views toward downtown and across Portland and is popular before sunset performances. After 6 p.m. it is strictly 21 and over; earlier in the day, minors may attend with a parent or guardian. Seating is first come, first served.
Accessibility and Inclusive Facilities
The 2015 rehabilitation introduced elevators, step-free routes, accessible restrooms and comprehensive ADA upgrades. Accessible seating changes with the floor plan, so guests should request accommodations through the venue’s general accessibility channel after purchasing a ticket. Recent visitors have praised staff for arranging seating, early assistance, wheelchair storage and clear views. ADA parking is available without charge for placard holders in the attached lot.
First-floor event areas have included gender-neutral, multi-stall restrooms, while the auditorium level has accessible, clearly marked facilities. Elevators reach the auditorium and upper event spaces, although waits can develop when a large crowd is moving between floors. Anyone who cannot stand for a full general-admission performance should arrange seating rather than relying on finding an unused chair after arrival.
Nearby Amenities
Pre-show dining is unusually convenient. Meat Cheese Bread is directly across SE Stark for sandwiches, while Grand Fir Brewing offers beer and pub food nearby. Nostrana is a short walk south for Italian cooking and pizza; Kachka, Sweetpea Baking, Lil’ America food carts and several ramen, Thai and café options are within roughly 10 minutes. Reservations are advisable for full-service restaurants on busy concert nights.
Jupiter Hotel and Jupiter NEXT are approximately 0.3 miles away near East Burnside, making them convenient for visitors who want to walk back after a show. Eastside Lodge is similarly close, while hotels around the Oregon Convention Center are approximately a mile away. Late at night, confirm transit frequency before the encore or plan a rideshare, particularly on Sundays and holidays.
What Makes Revolution Hall Special
Revolution Hall works because its history remains visible. A night out can include walking past lockers, watching an international touring act in an old school auditorium and finishing on a roof overlooking downtown. The preservation project saved a neighborhood landmark that might otherwise have lost its auditorium, while creating offices, hospitality businesses and a mid-sized cultural anchor. Its scale lets artists deliver theater-level production without losing the intimacy of a club.
Its broader importance lies in adaptive reuse and independent programming rather than a single legendary concert. The hall supports touring crews, local performers, independent promoters, restaurants and surrounding Buckman businesses. It also remained part of a vulnerable independent-venue network during the pandemic, when operators nationwide faced severe financial pressure. Today it continues to provide Portland with a flexible room for music, comedy, film, literature and community gatherings.
Visitor Tips and Information
For a general-admission concert, arrive 45 to 60 minutes before showtime if position matters. Reserved-seat audiences can usually arrive 20 to 30 minutes early, but allow longer for parking, coat check or a rooftop drink. Bring valid physical identification for any 21-and-over event; photographs or digital copies are not accepted. Everyone older than two needs a ticket at an all-ages show.
Pack lightly, wear comfortable shoes for standing shows and bring hearing protection. Portland evenings can become cool even in summer, particularly on the Roof Deck. Professional photography, flash, video and audio recording are generally prohibited unless the artist authorizes them. Opening acts commonly perform for 30 to 45 minutes, but exact stage times may not be confirmed until the day of the show.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Revolution Hall still open?
Yes. Revolution Hall remains open and operating under that name as of August 23, 2026. Its calendar includes concerts, comedy, film, podcasts, conversations and events in both the main auditorium and Show Bar. Announced programming already extends into 2027, while the seasonal Roof Deck and the building’s food-and-drink spaces continue to operate.
What is the capacity of Revolution Hall?
The main auditorium is generally described as an 830- to 850-capacity venue. There is no single capacity for every event because removable floor seating creates standing, partially seated and fully seated arrangements. Film layouts can also close balcony-side seats with limited views. Always use the seating map and section description attached to the specific performance.
Are all Revolution Hall shows general admission?
No. Events may be standing general admission, fully seated general admission, reserved seating or a hybrid with standing space close to the stage and seats farther back. Floor and balcony sections can also be ticketed separately. Read the event description carefully, especially if you need a chair, want to dance or prefer a specific reserved location.
Where should shorter visitors stand?
For a standing-floor show, arrive early for the front rail or seek an unobstructed position near the centrally located sound desk. Standing immediately behind the production area can reduce the number of people directly ahead. A balcony ticket provides a more predictable elevated view, although it places you farther from the performers and may be separately ticketed.
Does Revolution Hall have balcony seating?
Yes. The historic auditorium has a wraparound seated balcony used for most configurations. It offers a broad view and is often preferred for comedy, lectures and visitors who do not want to stand. Center sections are safest for complete sightlines. Seats near the curved sides or rails may be marked obstructed because a small portion of the stage can disappear from view.
Is Revolution Hall an indoor or outdoor venue?
The main auditorium and Show Bar are indoor venues, so normal concerts continue regardless of typical Portland rain. The Roof Deck is outdoors and opens only when weather, staffing and events allow. A rooftop closure does not normally affect an indoor performance. Bring a layer if you plan to spend time upstairs because temperatures drop quickly after sunset.
Can children attend Revolution Hall?
Children may attend performances specifically labeled all ages, but every guest older than two requires a ticket. An all-ages designation describes admission rather than content suitability, so families should assess the artist or program themselves. Minors cannot enter 21-and-over shows, even with a parent. The Roof Deck becomes strictly 21 and over after 6 p.m.
What identification is accepted for 21-and-over events?
Bring an unexpired, unaltered physical driver’s license or identification card issued by a U.S. state or protectorate, a valid passport, qualifying Canadian identification or U.S. military identification. International visitors should use a passport. Photocopies and images stored on a phone are not accepted. Identification may also be requested when purchasing alcohol at an otherwise all-ages event.
How big can my bag be?
Only very small handbags measuring less than 10 by 10 by 6 inches are normally allowed into the auditorium, and security may search them. Staff retain discretion even when a bag meets those dimensions. Backpacks, large purses and oversized bags should be left at home or checked at the first-floor coat-check facility for a fee.
Is there a coat check at Revolution Hall?
Yes. Coat and bag check is located near the first-floor entrance and box office. The latest published charges are $5 for a coat and $8 for a bag, with card payment required. Capacity may become limited at busy winter shows, so arrive early if you need to store something. Unclaimed possessions are retained for a limited period.
Can food and drinks be taken into the auditorium?
Food and beverages purchased from the building’s bars and café are allowed inside for most performances. Glass containers are not permitted, so drinks may be transferred into reusable or non-glass cups. Outside alcohol is prohibited. Be considerate with strongly scented or noisy food during comedy, film and spoken-word events, where audience noise is more noticeable.
Does Revolution Hall have wheelchair-accessible seating?
Yes. The renovated building has step-free routes, elevators, accessible restrooms and event-specific wheelchair or limited-mobility seating. Because the floor arrangement changes, request accommodation through the venue’s accessibility channel after buying a ticket. Recent visitors report helpful staff and several possible locations, but advance notice gives the team the best opportunity to preserve a suitable sightline.
How much is parking at Revolution Hall?
The small guest lot off SE 14th Avenue currently costs approximately $12 after 6 p.m., when available. ADA placard holders can park in the attached lot without charge. The lot fills quickly, and many visitors use street parking east of SE 15th Avenue. Check every sign rather than assuming a nearby residential space is unrestricted.
What is the closest public transit stop?
Bus 70 at SE 11th and Stark is the nearest stop, roughly one minute away. Bus 15 stops on Morrison around SE 12th, while buses 12, 19 and 20 serve East Burnside near SE 12th. Portland Streetcar’s A and B Loops stop along Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Grand Avenue, about seven to eight minutes away.
Does Revolution Hall have a rooftop bar?
Yes. The Roof Deck provides panoramic views across central Portland and normally operates from April through October, weather and events permitting. It may occasionally open during favorable off-season weather. Seating is first come, first served, and access can be affected by private functions. The deck is limited to guests 21 and older after 6 p.m.
What is the photography policy?
Flash photography and video or audio recording are prohibited under the standard house policy. Professional cameras are generally not allowed without approval, although the final rules belong to the performing artist and can vary by event. A phone photograph taken discreetly may be tolerated at some concerts, but filming continuously or blocking another guest’s view can lead to intervention.
Where is concert merchandise sold?
Tour merchandise is normally set up in the front lobby, where the venue provides rolling tables, display grids, lighting and power. The location makes it accessible before and after the performance, but lines can become long immediately after the encore. Buying before the main act may offer a better selection, though you will need to hold the purchase during the show.
What happens to lost property?
General lost items are held for 14 days. Provide the venue with a precise description, including brand, color, size and where the item was last seen. Identification cards and payment cards left at a bar are handled separately and unclaimed cards are destroyed after 30 days. Check promptly, particularly for coats, phones, keys and merchandise bags.
