KiMo Theatre Renovations Near Completion

September 23, 2021 - Like many local entertainment venues, the nearly 100-year-old KiMo Theatre closed last year due to the pandemic. The closure allowed staff members from the Department of Arts & Culture who oversee the theater and local contractors to complete a number of substantial renovations and updates. Many of the projects are near completion including seven new roofs spanning various spaces of the building.

The Department of Arts & Culture contracted an Albuquerque-based contractor to remove and replace the existing roofs with a Sarnafil Single-Ply Roofing Membrane System. In addition to the roof replacement, seven mechanical HVAC units were removed and replaced.

Other improvements include updated technology in theater such as a state-of-the-art laser cinema projector; a new stage floor; renovated orchestra pit; refurbished art on stage columns; renovated dressing rooms with new flooring, paint; countertops; and sinks; and LED lighting installed throughout the building. A new private event space and backstage VIP space for performers were also created. In addition, security shutters were installed; new awnings over the windows were installed; and the box office was moved.

Renovations to the KiMo Theatre, including seven new roofs, near completion.
The KiMo Theatre was built in 1927 and is a registered historic landmark. Updating historic buildings takes trained craftsmen to execute the work with precision and care. Improvements to historic buildings present a number of challenges, from utilizing the newest technologies without comprising the historic look and feel of a building to keeping the interior of a building dry while completely updating the external envelope and more.