Photo by Matthew Washausen
On November 3, The Kranzberg Arts Foundation is set to open their latest venue in the Grand Center Arts District: Central Stage. The intimate 140-guest setting—converted from its prior use as KDHK’s listening space—boasts a full bar, lounge, and updated sound system.
“Acoustically, it has really strong production value for a club this size,” Kranzberg executive director Chris Hansen says. “It allows for us and our partner presenters to bring touring concerts and comedy through the space, as well as featuring some of our region’s great talent.”
Although renovations at Central Stage were complete before the pandemic, the COVID-19 omicron variant brought initial events to a halt. This week, the space will make its official debut with a slate of shows from local producers Jamo Presents and Mid Coast Media.
Jamo Presents is an independent concert promoter that has brought shows to The Big Top for the past year. According to owner Drew Jameson, who has previously worked with several successful smaller concert spaces, booking acts at Central Stage felt like a natural next step.
Photo by Matthew Washausen
“Small rooms have a very important role in molding first-time plays for what will be, for some of [these acts], a really big future,” Jameson says. “Central Stage has been really appealing to me so that we can continue that growth with artists.”
Central Stage’s “Jamo’s” series will run from November through December, featuring 4-5 guests per week. Alongside the concert program, entertainment company Mid Coast Media is hosting a stand-up comedy series every Thursday. The company plans to platform local comedians alongside out-of-town acts.
Chris Denman, co-owner of Mid Coast Media, feels that the venue will be ideal for touring comedians interested in a professional environment.
“It’s 100 seats, but it feels like you’re in a real club,” Denman says.
The Mid Coast Comedy series will launch on November 3 and feature Larry Greene, Ray Rowry, Will O’Donnell, and Precious J. The following evening, guests can catch Jamo Presents’ pick, the Funky Butt Brass Band. Tickets to Central Stage events are available via the venue’s website.
