"Here's how I look at it. This is Everyman's Building. The first performance in this building, on December 5, 1904, was of the play Everyman. That set the tone, I think, for what would come. I love that the place is used by so many kids. The Phoenix belongs to everyone."
—Tom Gaffey, Phoenix founder and manager.

The Petaluma Phoenix Center (which includes The Phoenix Theater) is a one-of-a kind, all-ages music hall and teen center, located in downtown Petaluma’s historic Hill Opera House. We provide young people of the North Bay with live home-grown and professional music on a big-stage venue, in a drug/alcohol free environment. In addition, we offer a wide and growing range of services, including performance-oriented music education, health care, and academic tutoring.

Since 1982, native Petaluman Tom Gaffey has managed what has become a uniquely successful teen center. The Phoenix is a safe haven for young people to gather and express themselves. Tom has nurtured an environment which teens embrace as their own. It is a place to socialize, skate, catch up on homework, create or enjoy music and art, mentor and be mentored, and take advantage of free health services. When the Phoenix was threatened with demolition in 1999, the community rallied behind Tom to save it. The non-profit Petaluma Phoenix Center, Inc. was founded to build upon Tom’s original mission.

The Petaluma Phoenix Center offers:

• Live rock ‘n roll in the historic/funky Phoenix Theater: a big-stage venue for bands ranging from national touring acts to local garage talent, 3 days a week, all year.
• The Phoenix School of Music: professionally-taught onsite group classes and free jam sessions.
• Health programs and activities, including a free health clinic and dental services, AA and NA meetings, indoor skate ramps, and recreational outings.
• Education and community service programs, including academic tutoring, writing and poetry workshops, art projects, leadership development, and local community volunteer projects.
• A cool and safe place for teenagers.