One of West Michigan’s most iconic entertainment venues is ‘going dark’, hoping to be reborn, but facing an uncertain future.
The 97-year-old Kalamazoo State Theatre has been owned and operated by the Hinman family for 39 years, after they saved it from demolition in 1985. Apparently, that financial burden is weighing heavy, so the Hinman’s announced today the State will close while they look for a way to ensure its future as a community asset.
Thousands of Southwest Michigan residents have fond memories of their experiences in decades past at the State Theatre. First concerts, first dates, last shows with loved ones now gone, or just good times that bring a smile—or perhaps a cringe—to mind.
The atmosphere of the place is memorable all by itself. A unique, intimate venue in which to experience a music, comedy or stage presentation. Good acoustics and traditional facilities and decor that have been well-maintained over the years.
A venue that deserves to ‘live on’ for new generations. But the unfortunate question of economics always comes into play.
Here is the text of the State Theatre announcement, detailing the Hinman family’s plans to hopefully save The State one more time:
The Kalamazoo State Theatre will pause operations effective Nov. 24. This closure, intended to be temporary, will be used to gather interest and identify a new organization, likely a non-profit, to resume operations at the iconic performance venue.
The Kalamazoo State Theatre opened on July 14, 1927, as part of the W.S. Butterfield chain of theatres and was designed by renowned architect John Eberson with an “atmospheric” interior reminiscent of a Mediterranean courtyard under a starry sky. The theatre is one of 18 Eberson atmospheric theatres still in operation nationwide.
“We are committed to preserving the cultural and architectural importance of the Kalamazoo State Theatre and ensuring its potential to continue to thrive in the hands of a yet-to-be-identified organization dedicated to entertainment and the arts,” Roger Hinman, owner of the theatre, said.
“We bought the theatre in 1985 to protect it from being torn down and forgotten,” Hinman said. “Our goal is to identify and entrust a like-minded organization with caring for and loving the Kalamazoo State Theatre as we have for the past 40 years. By pursuing a transition in ownership now, we are providing an opportunity for the theatre’s next steward to take shape, sustain this unique and irreplaceable destination, and, hopefully, celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2027.”
The Kalamazoo State Theatre’s last event will be Saturday, Nov. 23, with a performance by Almost Queen and special guest Lisa Can’t Sing. Tickets for all shows scheduled after that date will be refunded at the point of purchase.
Current Kalamazoo State Theatre Executive Director Stephanie Hinman will represent the Hinman family’s desire to find the right organization to carry the Kalamazoo State Theatre forward and assist in the transition of the property and operation.
“This venue is more than just a building and a business. It is a historic community asset, a recognized treasure, and a huge responsibility. Ensuring we find the right people and group to move the Kalamazoo State Theatre forward with the vision to preserve and keep it alive through continued use is a top priority and focus,” Stephanie Hinman said.
“This place matters. We love this place. We want what is best for not only the building but the community as well.
“We are grateful for the time we have had to host concerts, comedy shows, community rentals, proms, weddings, and life celebrations. We thank the artists who graced our stage, the fans who supported our business, and the amazing staff who made it all happen,” she added.
Noteworthy performers at the Kalamazoo State Theatre include Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Dave Matthews Band, Tim Allen, B. B. King, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Britney Spears, George Carlin, Buddy Guy, Rodriguez, Anthony Hamilton, Richard Marx, REO Speedwagon, Dave Chappelle, Primus, Ludacris, Ben Folds, John Mulaney, Snarky Puppy, Chappell Roan, and many others.
Updates will be provided as a specific organization is selected to take ownership of the Kalamazoo State Theatre and transition details are solidified.
Refunds to events scheduled after Nov. 23 should be sought at the original point of purchase. The Kalamazoo State Theatre box office will only be able to process refunds for tickets purchased directly from the theatre box office, which will remain open through Dec. 5. Please visit the theatre’s website for extended box office hours.
Tickets for the Kalamazoo State Theatre’s final show featuring Almost Queen with special guest Lisa Can’t Sing on Nov. 23 can be purchased at https://www.kazoostate.com/event/almostqueen/.
