WRF FAQ | SWPS

When and where is the WRF held?

The WRF2019 dates and times are: Saturday, April 20, 2019, 11 am - 10 pm Our home is in the Armory at the Seattle Center, the cultural and community heart of Seattle and home of the Space Needle. Workshops are in the upper floors of the Armory and performances are on the Main Stage in the Armory and the Mural Amphitheater. Dance classes are in Fisher Pavilion. Click here for a printable map of Seattle Center. Click here for info on getting to the Seattle Center.
Where can I stay?

Two hotels closest to the Seattle Center are offering special pricing: the Marqueen Hotel and the Inn at Queen Anne. Use the code BACKYARD at either hotel for discount pricing! Make your reservations by April 6, 2019 in order to get the special pricing!
Where can I eat?

The Food Court in the Armory offers convenient food of many styles.
Wasn't this a 3 day festival?

Usually the WRF is a 3 day festival. For 2019, the Seattle World Percussion Society Board of Directors chose make it a 1 day festival in order to give them time to train new board members and restructure the business model of the WRF. The goal is to grow the WRF while keeping it a quality festival. WRF 2020 will also be a 1 day festival.
How do I get into WRF workshops? Is pre-registration required?

All WRF2018 workshops and performances are free and open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. Most workshops hold between 60 and 100 people (some fewer, some as many as 200). Most workshops fill up, so arrive early for good seats.
What does it cost to attend the WRF?

All events at the WRF are free of charge and open to the public. We want to make this wonderful variety of world music accessible to as many people as possible to discover and evolve their rhythmic interests. We encourage everyone to support the WRF and our wonderful teachers and performers by buying WRF merchandise or raffle tickets. Please show your appreciation for the music and learning these generous musicians bring to you!
How is the WRF a free event?

From its beginning, the WRF has been organized by volunteers as a grassroots effort, driven by our love of world music, drumming and dance. All expenses are covered by vendor fees and merchandise sales, countless hours of volunteer service and generous community support. Central to our miraculously low budget is our sponsorship by Seattle Center, which provides over $50,000 worth of space for free because our event is free and open to the public.
Should I bring my drum? Do I need certain drums for certain classes?

Yes! Bring a drum that you like to play and is easy to carry. You can use any drum in any class. For instance, you may bring a djembe to a conga class. If you do not have a drum, we have a limited number of Remo djembes and tubanos for rent at $5 per day. Our drum rental and drum check services are operated by Village Volunteers, a non-profit which runs community development projects in Kenya, India, Ghana, and Nepal.
Can I buy a drum at the WRF?

Yes! We have a lot of vendors who offer the best selection of drums of all kinds and price points that you’ll find anywhere in the Northwest. Please support our vendors!
Can I check my drum or my bag if I don’t want to carry it around?

Yes. Drum Check is available in the 3rd floor lobby, at the top of the Center House stairs with the drum rentals. To ensure you receive your items, please mark all personal items with your name. WRF is not responsible for items left more than 24 hours.
What else should I bring?

Bring water bottles because The Armory has stations to fill them. Wear clothing you can move in and comfortable shoes. Lastly bring a good sense of humor and community spirit will serve you well!
Who designs the WRF artwork?

Don Baker has provided artwork for many of our favorite designs. You can connect with Don at his website or via email.
What if I have a question that is not covered here?

Email WRF Festival Coordinator!