Star Plaza Theatre Sticks Around

“We never wanted to close the theater. We reluctantly felt it needed to be sacrificed because it would not be possible to continue operating while the new hotel is being built,” Blum said. “We were not prepared for the outpouring of emotion that the announcement generated. Not only did our patrons express their deep sadness at seeing the theater close, many nationally renowned artists also contacted us to express how much they would miss performing at the Star Plaza. After much deliberation and consultation with our contractors, we determined that it was indeed feasible to retain the theater despite the nearby construction work.”

Blum announced in August that the theatre was slated to close in May 2017 because it would be significantly impacted by the razing of the adjacent Radisson Hotel and the construction of a new hotel on the property.

Continuously in operation since 1979, the Star Plaza Theatre has a history of presenting top-tier entertainers.

Regarded as a premier Midwest concert facility, the venue has been continuously profitable since its opening and is also a strong economic driver in northwest Indiana.

“This is a happy day for all of us,” added Blum. “We are overjoyed to not only be able to continue to be an entertainment and cultural beacon for the Midwest and an economic driver for the community, but also to welcome back the many performers who have called the Star Plaza Theatre their favorite concert facility, bring in new performers and create even more memories for our loyal patrons.”

The 3,400-capacity hall, which opened as the Holiday Star Theatre in 1979 with a concert by Donna Summer, has hosted so many famous names that it’s easier to list the people who didn’t play it. From Bob Hope to Garth Brooks to Star Plaza Theatre, practically everyone in entertainment has performed there with the exception of Frank Sinatra, who died before making his scheduled appearance. 

When Blum first announced the venue’s closing, he said the silver lining was it would free Star Productions to concentrate on other endeavors.

Pollstar asked him if that was still the case.

“Absolutely. I am committed to actively expanding Star Productions as well as forming partnerships and alliances,” he said. “I am also open to the idea of rentals and co-promotions at Star Plaza Theatre.”