On May 17, Field Arts & Events Hall unveiled The Thomsen Club, an immersive jazz club experience named in honor of Christopher and Lisa Thomsen and their family—visionary donors and passionate champions of live jazz on the Olympic Peninsula.
The club’s inaugural night transformed Field Hall’s second floor into a 1920s-style speakeasy, complete with password-only entry and joyful, brassy jazz with the Jonathan Doyle Swingtet. Guests showed up in style – dressed to impress in 20s-inspired ensembles complete with fedoras and fascinators.
The Thomsen family’s commitment to the arts has been steady and heartfelt. For the past year, they have been the lead supporters behind Free Jazz Sundays, a free monthly series in the Sunset Lounge that brings high-quality jazz to all, regardless of income or background. With past performances by Duende Libre, the Peninsula College Jazz Ensemble, and Nelda Swiggett, the series aims to create an accessible community celebration and invite new audiences to fall in love with jazz.
“This kind of philanthropic leadership doesn’t just support an event—it shapes a cultural future,” said Steve Raider-Ginsburg, Executive and Artistic Director of Field Hall.
“When families like the Thomsens invest in the arts, they open doors for everyone. They help make jazz accessible, inviting new audiences to discover something soulful, unexpected, and deeply human.”
The Thomsen Club will return quarterly with immersive themed pop-up performances. Next up: Tito Puente Jr., son of the legendary “King of Mambo,” takes the stage on Friday, August 1 for two electrifying sets of Latin rhythm. Dress to impress and wear your dancing shoes!
Free Jazz Sunday isn’t going anywhere—thanks to you. We are deeply grateful to every guest who attends, and especially to those who choose to make a gift during these events. Your generosity helps ensure that this beloved series remains free and accessible to all.
With the continued support of our community and the leadership of families like the Thomsens, Free Jazz Sunday will keep growing—bringing world-class jazz, emerging talent, and unforgettable moments to the Sunset Lounge each month.
We’re always eager to connect with passionate supporters who want to take a leadership role in sustaining and expanding this kind of programming—because together, we’re building something lasting. The Thomsen family’s generosity is a gift to our growing cultural district—and an invitation to all of us to keep building.
Make a gift today in support of Free Jazz Sundays—and help us keep the music playing, for everyone.
