Kalamazoo State Theatre to Pause Operations to Find New Ownership

Theatre to close temporarily as search for new owner begins

State Theatre brings in thousands of visitors downtown each year

The Kalamazoo State Theatre will pause operations at the end of the year to begin searching for new ownership. The theatre, which opened in 1927, has been a cornerstone of downtown Kalamazoo for nearly a century. In recent years, the theatre has undergone extensive renovations and has hosted a variety of events, including concerts, movies, and plays.

The decision to pause operations was made after the theatre's current owner, Miller Auditorium, decided to sell the property. Miller Auditorium has owned the State Theatre since 1977 and has invested heavily in its renovation. However, Miller Auditorium is a non-profit organization and is not in a position to continue to own and operate the theatre.

The Kalamazoo State Theatre is a vital part of the city's cultural landscape. The theatre brings in thousands of visitors downtown each year and helps to support local businesses. The City of Kalamazoo is committed to finding a new owner for the theatre who will continue to operate it as a performing arts venue.

The search for a new owner will begin immediately. The theatre is expected to close sometime in December 2023. The theatre will remain open for events that have already been booked through the end of the year.

Additional information

The Kalamazoo State Theatre is a 1,800-seat theatre located in downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan. The theatre was built in 1927 and was originally known as the RKO State Theatre. The theatre was renamed the Kalamazoo State Theatre in 1977 when it was purchased by Miller Auditorium.

The theatre has undergone extensive renovations in recent years, including a $10 million renovation in 2019. The renovations included new seats, a new sound system, and a new stage.

The Kalamazoo State Theatre hosts a variety of events, including concerts, movies, and plays. The theatre is also home to the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra.