History

Fusion Café was founded in January 2001 by Daniel Hintz, in response to Seattle’s Teen Dance Ordinance (link to information about the Teen Dance Ordinance), a controversial Seattle law which severely curtailed the ability of concert and club promoters to hold events for underage patrons. During its existence from 1985 to 2002, it was routinely criticized for its severity and its effects on the local music scene and industry. After several unsuccessful attempts to repeal it through lobbying and later court action, it was finally repealed and replaced with the All-ages Dance Ordinance.

Since its inception, Fusion Café has featured 689 bands including Blood Brothers, Himsa, Modest Mouse, Schoolyard Heroes, and Death Cab for Cutie. Fusion Café is lead by a team of volunteers who handle all the talent book, sound tech, and day-to-day operations.