Historic 1924 Venue Gets Modern Lighting to Meet Performance Demands

*Kalamazoo* — New LED lighting will be installed at Chenery Auditorium for $2.45 million, the Kalamazoo Public Schools Board approved Wednesday, April 8.

KPS owns the auditorium at 714 S. Westnedge Ave., located inside the old Kalamazoo Central High School. The historic theater opened in 1924.

The current lights will be replaced by LED lighting in the auditorium, ticketing areas, the lobby, green room, dressing areas, meeting rooms and storage areas.

The majority of school auditoriums, professional theaters and concert venues have moved from conventional lighting sources to LED-driven lighting.

Susan Coney, KPS chief of marketing and communications, said the change is necessary to meet the needs and expectations of performers, technicians and audiences.

The upgrades will also improve the auditorium's capabilities of instantaneous color changes, movement and focusing. With the new lights, there will be a nearly unlimited range of customization.

The change will also positively impact patrons by allowing lights in the house to flash prior to showtime, indicating the show will start soon, and enhance aisle lighting.

Funding Sources Include Bond Money and Private Grant

The project will be funded by the Irving S. Gilmore Foundation Grant and the school district's 2022 bond.

The KPS Board also approved a $693,935 purchase Wednesday night to add a secure vestibule and replace windows at Valley Center School, 3122 Lake St.

Modernizing Infrastructure for 21st Century Performances

The upgrade represents a significant investment in the historic venue that has hosted countless performances for nearly a century. The move to LED lighting allows for greater flexibility and precision in lighting design.

LED lighting offers several advantages over conventional lighting:

  • Instant on/off capabilities
  • Energy efficiency
  • Longer lifespan
  • Wider range of color options
  • Precise beam control

The ability to instantly change colors and focus light allows for more dynamic lighting designs that can enhance the performance experience. The enhanced aisle lighting improves safety for audience members moving through the venue before and after shows.

The secure vestibule and window replacements at Valley Center School show the district's commitment to updating its facilities across the county.

Investment in Local Arts and Culture

The $2.45 million investment ensures Chenery Auditorium can continue to serve as a premier venue for performances in Kalamazoo. The upgrades will allow the historic building to compete with modern venues while maintaining its architectural heritage.

The auditorium continues to host major events including the Kalamazoo Regional Spelling Bee and various concerts and performances throughout the year. The lighting upgrades will improve the experience for all performers and audiences who use the venue.

The combination of LED lighting and infrastructure improvements at Valley Center School demonstrates the district's balanced approach to updating facilities while addressing immediate needs.

Sources

  • MLive — https://www.mlive.com/news/kalamazoo/2026/04/102-year-old-kalamazoo-auditorium-to-see-25-million-in-upgrades.html