A great neighborhood deserves a great theater.

Named after 20th century entertainment legends Gene Kelly and Billy Strayhorn, both natives of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Kelly Strayhorn Theater (KST) is reflective of the passion that its namesakes had for the arts. Today, KST carries on their legacy by fostering bold and innovative artistry with a global perspective. KST celebrates diversity in voice, thought, and expression, and upholds a firm commitment to inclusion. Furthermore, KST provides a welcome space for dialogue and artistic expression for all who enter.

KST has a dynamic footprint in Pittsburgh, with two venues running along Penn Avenue. KST’s Alloy Studios is a cultural hub at the intersection of Friendship and East Liberty, and the historic Kelly Strayhorn Theater is located in the thriving business district of East Liberty. More than 20 years after the founding of the theater, KST continues to use its broad reach to impact the contemporary arts and the community. 

Mission + Culture

KST is a home for creative experimentation, community dialogue, and collective action rooted in the liberation of Black and queer people.

We welcome our home to all who uplift Black, Indigenous, people of color, and queer voices. We will continue centering historically resilient folks.

We focus our services on:

• Black women

• LGBTQIA+

• People of color 

• Emerging artists

 

Pay What Moves You

Kelly Strayhorn Theater is excited to introduce Pay What Moves You, an accessible scale of ticket prices. Over the last few years, we heard feedback from artists and audiences alike–our ticket prices needed to better reflect the value and importance of art, as well as supporting artists to live well and thrive. Pay What Moves You encourages audiences to choose an equitable price that best fits their budget, while also still fairly compensating artists. It is also your opportunity to affirm the value of art! Go for the top tier if you can afford to! It helps us keep the first tier affordable for those who need it.