Midland Theatre’s Makeover

After being closed for three years and a $28 million makeover, the Midland Theatre in Kansas City, Mo., will open its doors in September with a concert by Melissa Etheridge and a new name – The Midland by AMC.

The facelift was performed by Midland-Empire Partners LLC, a joint venture between AMC Entertainment and Cordish Co., according to the Kansas City Star. The 80-year-old theatre, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was once a vaudeville palace, is operated by AEG Live.

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

On the main floor of the venue, the permanent seats have been removed and replaced with seven open tiers to allow the flexibility of cabaret-style tables and chairs, open admission or up to 700 plush folding chairs.

The five-story office section of the theatre has been renovated to accommodate a bar and banquet facility and the upper balcony now boasts the Chandelier Bar, according to the Star. There’s also a rock club, the Indie, which has a separate entrance.

Following Etheridge’s September 9th show, other artists lined up include Anita Baker, Vince Gill, Jim Gaffigan, the "Backyardigans," George Lopez and Wynonna.