When audiences return to Starlight, they’ll find a number of fantastic enhancements that will make the historic venue more accessible and improve the visitor experience for all audiences. The City of Kansas City, Mo., Piper Wind Architects, Turner Construction Company, and the Starlight operations department have all been hard at work in this extended “off-season” to make some much-needed Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) improvements throughout the facility following a Department of Justice inspection.
Scheduled for completion in mid-April, the $3.55 million project began in October 2020 and was funded through the City’s General Obligation (GO) Bond Program, GO KC. This summer, audiences will notice:
- Numerous walkways leveled throughout the venue
- Increased number of ADA and ADA companion seats in Starlight’s Producers Circle and Box sections
- Elevation of outer Terrace sections to improve sight lines
- New, accessible signage throughout the venue
The project also includes upgrades to the front of house theatre with an accessibility lift option for production staff and moves the video booth to be centered within the venue.
“We’re lucky that the City has been more than happy to work with us to maintain the integrity and beauty of Starlight while making these important improvements,” Rich Baker, Starlight’s President and CEO, said. “For example, new brickwork in the now-raised Terrace sections allows the venue to be updated while seamlessly blending in to the original design of the theatre.”
Come see the changes for yourself and join Starlight under the stars in 2021! For more information about upcoming performances, visit the Season Ticket page of our website. Please note: season ticket holders whose seats are affected by the construction have already been contacted about their options. No further action is required.
