Renovated Midland Theatre set to reopen with Etheridge concert

Rocker Melissa Etheridge is scheduled to open the Midland Theatre in September when it begins its new role as the indoor live entertainment hub of the Power & Light District.

The 80-year-old theater, renamed The Midland by AMC, has been closed since 2005 to allow a $28 million makeover by Midland-Empire Partners LLC, a joint venture between AMC Entertainment and Baltimore-based Cordish Co.

AEG Live will operate the former vaudeville palace at 13th and Main streets. The Los Angeles-based firm also operates the Sprint Center and Kemper Arena.

“The Midland is a gem among historic theatres, not only in Kansas City, but across the country,” Joe Litvag, AEG Live senior vice president said in a statement.

“Much like in its heyday, it will again host today’s top musical touring acts, comedy shows, family shows and special events through creative and flexible programming.”

The old theater, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has been restored to its former ornate luster.

The biggest change is that the main floor permanent seats have been removed and reconfigured with seven open tiers to allow cabaret-style tables and chairs, standing for open admission or up to 700 plush folding chairs.

The Chandelier Bar has been created in the upper balcony, and the former five-story office section of the theater, facing Main Street, has been renovated to accommodate a bar and banquet facility.

A rock club, the Indie, will have a separate entrance off Main.

“We are pleased to partner with AEG Live and Cordish to maintain the beauty of the Midland, while upgrading many of the theatre’s amenities to exceed the needs of today’s artists and guests,” Frank Rash, a senior vice president at AMC, said in a statement.

Etheridge, who hails from Leavenworth, will be the opening act Sept. 9.

Midland events:
Melissa Etheridge, Sept 9
Puddle of Mudd, Sept. 12
Norman Brown, Sept. 13
Journey, Sept. 15
Anita Baker, Sept. 20
Vince Gill, Sept. 21
Jim Gaffigan, Sept. 26
The Backyardigans Live, Sept. 27-28
Bill Cosby, Oct. 11
Video Games Live, Nov. 1
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Nov. 13-16
George Lopez, Nov. 21