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The Starlight Theatre has started phase one of its $40 million improvement and renovation project. Photo credit: Starlight Theatre.
Posted October 10, 2024
The Starlight Theatre has begun work on its $40 million project to improve the venue and create new community programs.
Starlight hosted a groundbreaking celebration for its Uniquely KC, a $40 million capital campaign that will fund improvements and renovation projects including a new state-of-the-art canopy.
“This project reflects our commitment to enhancing the arts, enriching community experiences, and preserving the magic of live performance for future generations,” Lindsey Rood-Clifford, Starlight president and CEO, said in a Thursday release. “Today’s groundbreaking signals the beginning of a transformation that will ensure Starlight continues to be a place where everyone feels welcome and inspired, reinforcing our shared love for the arts and this city we proudly call home.”
Improvements will be made to the central, west and east campuses. The central campus will see the implementation of a canopy that will extend over the plaza seating, allowing Starlight to offer summer matinees. Additionally, a new production and light bridge outfitted with new screens.
The west campus will get renovated restrooms that will expand the number of stalls available and support more accessibility and family restrooms. The east campus will receive a new kitchen that will include more space and upgrades to food and beverage services.
This marks the beginning of phase one of two for Uniquely KC. The first phase will see the construction of two new towers that will support the production bridge and canopy. Phase one will be completed by the spring 2025. Phase two is slated to begin in fall 2025 with an anticipated completion in spring 2026.
Uniquely KC has raised $24 million of the $40 million campaign thanks to donations from the Sunderland Foundation; Kansas City; the Hall Family Foundation; the State of Missouri; Levy Restaurants and others.
Funding raised from the Uniquely KC campaign will also support community programs such as training, expanding programs and adding theatre residency for elementary schools.
