Two burglars ransacked Seattle’s SOAP arts venue and two neighbors in the Central District on Jan. 10, stealing $4,500 in gear.
SEATTLE — Two burglars left a trail of damage through Seattle’s Central District last month, breaking into three businesses including an arts venue that serves as a creative hub for hundreds of local artists.
Seattle Open Arts Place — better known as SOAP — took one of the biggest hits during the evening crime spree on Jan. 10. According to Executive Director Jasmine Lomax, the thieves smashed a lockbox, stole the venue’s keys, and took about $4,500 in equipment, leaving damage behind.
“It’s heartbreaking. Discouraging,” Lomax said. “Replacing that equipment or losing $4,500 is devastating because we’re like, now where’s this month’s rent coming from?”
Police said the same burglars also broke into a yet-to-open business next door and Alexandra’s Café, located just down the block. The café’s Instagram post stated that an iPad, register phone and some cash were stolen, but the shop was able to reopen the following day.
Lomax said SOAP has been struggling to secure steady state and federal funding, and the theft added to the challenges. Still, the venue, which hosts film screenings, dance, theater, burlesque, and comedy shows, refused to close its doors.
“We did not shut down,” Lomax said. “It was really important to me that we made it happen by whatever means necessary. There’ve been people on our schedule waiting for their opportunity.”
Artist Ben Swenson-Klatt, who performs at SOAP, said the crime spree hits deeper than just lost equipment. “Spaces like SOAP need support right now, particularly after taking a hit,” he said. “The arts are struggling.”
After the burglary, the community rallied behind SOAP, raising $4,500 in donations within a week to help replace what was lost.
“We’re still here,” Lomax said. “As long as there’s a floor, as long as there’s sound and light, we’ll keep telling stories. You can’t deter us from our mission.”
No arrests have been made. Seattle police are asking anyone with information to contact investigators.
