KINGMAN – In 2018, Kingman Center for the Arts became the owner of the historic theater on 302 E. Beale St. Their hope is to renovate the structure to become a venue for the performing arts. KCA calls what will be the finished theater, “The Jewel of Beale Street.”
Christina Michelson, executive director of the Beale Street Theater project said, “There is a lot that needs to be done. All of the internal systems, electrical, HVAC, and pluming need to be redone. The structure itself is in good shape, but the renovation cost is estimated at $1,250,000.” Michelson also said that donations of even of $10 are greatly appreciated. Laborers and construction companies may volunteer to assist with demolition and building as well.
Michelson further said, “We are looking at between a 400 to 450 seating capacity. It depends on whether we finish the balcony, and that will depend on money. We are basically going to keep it the same other than we have to bust out the side walls of the stage, so we can make the space bigger. We will be putting up a new marquee with big neon lights. We will have concessions, of course. You have to eat when you come and watch a movie.”
A friend of Michelson, local Melissa Jones, said of the project, “I’ve know Christina since they first started talking about this, and it is real exciting to see the progress made.”
Currently through the non-profit, KCA there are ongoing productions of live plays and entertainment; however, these chiefly take place in local high schools. The high school venue is not optimal, as the plays often can only show for one weekend. The latest production will be “The Odd Couple” which will open at Lee Adams High School, on March 14, at 7 pm, and tickets range from $5 to $12.
About the productions Kent Simmons, KCA theater board director said, “I’ve been a part of the theater as a musician for most of the musicals, but they also do serious drama. ‘Death of a Salesman’ was terrific; really the best presentation that I have ever seen of it, and that’s saying something.”
Simmons continued about the plays, “They are every bit as good as anything that you would see anywhere else. We often have a live orchestra with somewhere around 16 pieces. Simmons added, “The plays are very professional, as their costuming, acting, blocking, timing, and pacing are all good.”
Michelson said about the productions, “Our hope is that people will come down to a show and then frequent the other businesses around and go to the bars and restaurants.”
Donations for the renovation may be made at the KCA Gallery at 208 E. Beale St., to the executive director, or on the website at www.bealestreettheater.com.
– Linda McMahon
