A New Chapter for Kalamazoo’s State Theatre

Downtown Kalamazoo has always had a heartbeat—and for nearly a century, the State Theatre has been at the center of it all. This week, that heartbeat got a little stronger as Lead Balloon Productions, led by Dan and Holly Carmichael, officially purchased the historic venue. Their promise? To preserve the magic of the past while preparing the theatre for an incredible future.

From Vaudeville to Pearl Jam: Nearly 100 Years of Memories

Commissioned in 1927 by Col. William Butterfield and designed by the renowned architect John Eberson, the State Theatre is one of only 16 remaining “atmospheric theatres” in the country. Step inside and you’ll understand why: Eberson designed these theaters to transport guests under a starry night sky, blending ornate architecture with an immersive sense of wonder.

Over the years, the State has hosted everything from vaudeville shows and operas to legendary performances by artists like Joan Baez, BB King, Pearl Jam, and countless more. Generations of Kalamazoo families have celebrated milestones there—graduations, weddings, and evenings they’ll never forget.

In 1986, when the theatre faced demolition, local developer Roger Hinman stepped in and saved it from being turned into a parking lot. His family’s stewardship ensured the State remained a cultural cornerstone, eventually earning its spot on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Carmichaels: Stewards for the Next Century

Dan and Holly Carmichael aren’t just business leaders—they’re lifelong Michiganders with a personal connection to the theatre. In fact, one of their first dates was at the State. Now, as they relocate their family to Kalamazoo, they are stepping into only the third chapter of ownership in the theatre’s history.

Their plans focus on four priorities:

• Preservation of the theatre’s historic architecture.

• Accessibility, ensuring everyone can enjoy the venue.

• Guest & performer experience, with thoughtful upgrades to flow and amenities.

• Technology integration, blending modern systems with timeless charm.

Partnering with Wilson Butler Architects, the Carmichaels are preparing the theatre for its centennial in 2027 and beyond.

Why This Matters for Kalamazoo

Mayor David Anderson captured it perfectly: “A great city needs a great downtown—and The State Theatre has long been a cornerstone of what makes Kalamazoo a great city.” With new ownership comes fresh energy, creative vision, and continued investment in making downtown a vibrant hub for culture, business, and community.

For those of us who live and work here, this isn’t just a real estate transaction—it’s a commitment to Kalamazoo’s future. A thriving State Theatre attracts visitors, boosts local businesses, and strengthens the sense of pride we share in our city.

Looking Ahead

As the State Theatre nears its 100th birthday, the Carmichaels invite the community to join in anticipation of a new century filled with music, comedy, film, and shared memories. You can sign up for updates at state-theatre.org.

At the Veenstra Team, we believe stories like this matter. Just as the State Theatre has been lovingly stewarded for nearly a century, we work every day to help families, businesses, and investors steward their own stories here in Greater Kalamazoo. A strong community makes every move—and every memory—more meaningful.