Major remodeling for amphitheater

Providence Medical Center is the new naming rights sponsor for the former Cricket Wireless Amphitheater, now known as Providence Medical Center Amphitheater at 633 N. 130th St. in Bonner Springs, Kan.

“We couldn’t be happier to announce this partnership with another long-time Wyandotte County institution,” said Kathleen Conwell, director of marketing and public relations for Providence. “Providence Medical Center is proud to be part of the revitalization of another community icon.”

Providence Medical Center, 8929 Parallel Parkway, has been a Wyandotte County institution since 1920, and was formerly a member of the Sisters of Charity – Leavenworth Health System. The hospital, five miles east of the amphitheater, was acquired in 2013 by Prime Healthcare Services.

In addition, the landmark venue will undergo a multi-million dollar remodel that are expected to be complete when the amphitheater kicks off its 2016 season in May.

The renovations include:

• New reserved seating

• Upgrades to the stage

• Improvements to the backstage, catering, and dressing rooms

• Remodeled merchandise stands, concession stands and restrooms

• A complete VIP Club renovation with multimedia centers

• New walkways, landscaping and other aesthetic updates

Originally called Sandstone Amphitheater when it opened in 1984, the outdoor theater next to Wyandotte County Park, Bonner Springs, has a long history. Thousands of acts and millions of fans have attended concerts over the course of its 30-year history. It is one of the largest music venues in the state. It also was formerly Verizon Wireless Amphitheater and Cricket Wireless Amphitheater before the latest announcement.

“The amphitheater has always had a great layout, a wonderful atmosphere and incredible sound. The renovations will make the venue a state-of-the-art facility for both fans and artists” said Chris Fritz, president of New West Presentations, the operator of the amphitheater.

The last big renovations at the amphitheater were in 1991, when about $3 million was spent. An $865,000 bond issue was passed by the Unified Government last summer to help finance the remodeling. The UG owns the amphitheater.

Providence Medical Center Amphitheater is located near a major tourism and entertainment district in Kansas City, Kan., which includes Kansas Speedway, Legends Shopping Center, Children’s Mercy Park, Community America Ballpark, and the future home of the National Soccer Center, along with numerous hotels and restaurants. The amphitheater is located near I-435 and I-70 in Wyandotte County.

Shows already announced and coming to Providence Medical Center Amphitheater in 2016:

May 17: Ellie Goulding

May 24: Buzz Under the Stars with Florence + the Machine

June 29: David Matthews Band

July 1: Brand New/ Modest Mouse

July 28: Warped Tour

Visit www.providenceamp.com for more info.

For earlier stories in the Wyandotte Daily News about the amphitheater, see http://wyandottedaily.com/bonds-approved-for-remodel-of-cricket-wireless-amphitheater/

and

http://wyandottedaily.com/865000-cricket-wireless-amphitheater-upgrade-approved/