By Aaron Allen, The Seattle Medium
Community spaces are often the heart of a neighborhood, but their continued vibrancy depends on the dedication of people working behind the scenes. At the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute (LHPAI) in Seattle’s Central District, that person is Sandra Boas-Dupree. As Facility Manager and Community Connections lead for the Office of Arts and Culture, she works tirelessly to ensure the lights stay on, the programs flourish, and the history of the space remains alive for future generations.
“I always said that this facility doesn’t belong to us; it belongs to the community,” said Boas-Dupree. “I’ve always held that point of view—that I’m here to serve, and I want the community to be able to use this space and to fill it.”
From welcoming people into the building to supporting emerging artists, Boas-Dupree does it all. Her commitment ensures that the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute, one of Seattle’s last iconic African American cultural hubs, remains a vibrant place where art, music, and history converge.
The Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute opened as a community center for the African American community in 1971. Previously a Jewish synagogue, the building became a beacon of Black culture, hosting plays, concerts, art exhibits, political forums, and more. While the space itself is stunning, it is Boas-Dupree’s leadership that keeps it thriving.
“Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute is really an icon in the community,” said Boas-Dupree. “There’s not a lot of African American-focused organizations left in the Central District—so much has been lost. We’re one of the places where people can still come to events led by African Americans or focused on African American culture. It’s important for the community to understand that history, and we don’t want to lose it.”
Born and raised in Seattle, Boas-Dupree grew up surrounded by art and activism. Her father, a jazz musician, introduced her to live music at a young age, while her parents’ dedication to civil rights instilled in her a lifelong commitment to community service.
“I know one thing: my father really inspired me because he was such a great musician,” Boas-Dupree said. “I listened to live jazz in my house every single day. In the building, I like that it gets loud here because we have so much going on. When I first started working here, there were marimbas playing a lot—they were like my background music.”
This passion for culture and activism fuels her work. Boas-Dupree doesn’t just manage the facility; she makes it a space where history and legacy are front and center.
“I make sure they know the history of the Central District and about the gentrification,” she said. “I like to educate people in that way. I guess you could say I’m a bit of an activist because I make sure that when I’m in the room, Langston Hughes is given the proper recognition. We’re fortunate to have people of color running it, and the leadership has done a good job.”
Boas-Dupree’s journey with the city began in 1995, and she took over leadership of LHPAI in 2002, when it was under the control of Seattle Parks and Recreation. In 2013, the facility transitioned to the Office of Arts and Culture. When the opportunity to lead the center arose, Boas-Dupree didn’t hesitate.
Her vision for LHPAI has always been rooted in community. Boas-Dupree played a key role in transitioning the programming to the Black-led nonprofit Langston, ensuring the space remained connected to its cultural roots. She also advocated for the inclusion of African American voices in decision-making, particularly regarding the legacy of the center.
“I would say she’s been very committed and community-oriented,” said Sharon Williams, a former staff member and coworker. “She wants to see Black people in the community shine. The fact that she’s been there for so long, and to now see where she’s gone through the years of being the manager of the building, is just amazing. She always pushes for people to do their programs, especially when they represent the Black race in a wonderful way.”
From handling budgets to marketing events and upgrading technology, Boas-Dupree wears many hats. She describes herself as the “grio” of the facility—a custodian of its stories, traditions, and future.
“Sandra is that cheerleader that people don’t know is behind the scenes, even with the limitations of what the city would allow her to do,” Williams added. “She nurtures partnerships between Langston and the rest of the community. She’s a connector and a champion. She takes the heat for everything that happens within, but she holds it down, stands strong, and speaks up when something’s wrong.”
Boas-Dupree’s commitment to educating the community is also evident in her role in organizing Juneteenth celebrations. In 2001, recognizing a lack of awareness about the holiday, she launched LHPAI’s first Juneteenth event.
“In 2001, we started our Juneteenth celebration,” Boas-Dupree said. “It was primarily because people in the community said they didn’t know what Juneteenth was about. So, we targeted and educated people about Juneteenth. We also targeted small businesses in the community to get involved.”
Her efforts have extended far beyond Juneteenth. Boas-Dupree’s work ensures that everyone who walks through LHPAI’s doors experiences the depth of the building’s history and the strength of its cultural legacy.
“I want people to feel the connection when they step inside,” Boas-Dupree said. “It’s not just about the events we host; it’s about the stories, the legacy, and the community that this building represents.”
For those who know her, Boas-Dupree is the backbone of the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute. Her steady leadership, tireless advocacy, and unwavering dedication have kept the space thriving as a beacon of Black culture in Seattle.
“She’s been so committed to inspiring the community, raising awareness, and supporting families,” Williams said. “Sandra is one of those unsung heroes who quietly makes a huge impact. We’re lucky to have her in the community.”