Kalamazoo Theatre Recap

The recession of 2009 hit Kalamazoo hard; but, thanks to great programs, generous community members, and one organization, Kalamazoo's theatre culture has regained its footing and is stronger than ever.

The city of Kalamazoo houses 11 successful theatre venues, according to Theatre Kalamazoo's Website.

Joan Herrington, Chair of Western Michigan University's Department of Theatre and member of the Theatre Kalamazoo organization, said much of the rebound rate was due to the organization, one that promotes the diversity and richness of the area's theatre and makes it more accessible to the public through collective advertising and balanced seasons.

Nicki Poer, Director of Education and Outreach at The Civic, shared documents that said The Civic continued to increase revenue by 9.034 percent between 2010-2013, demonstrating the theatre's continued recovery.

Some people, like Mattawan High School Director Lou Price, disagree, however, with the notion of recovery and said his numbers of attendance and funding were down by over half, most likely due to poor community support.

Herrington said she hopes that Kalamazoo theatres remain strong and that the community continues to invest in and cultivate the next generation of theatre artists.