Klein Memorial Auditorium facts for kids
The Klein
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Address | 910 Fairfield Ave |
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Location | Bridgeport, CT |
Operator | The Klein Memorial Auditorium Foundation |
Type | Performing Arts Center |
Seating type | Theater |
Capacity | 1,400 |
Opened | 1940 |
Website | |
http://www.theklein.org |
The Klein Memorial Auditorium is a cool theater in Bridgeport, CT. It has 1,400 seats, which means lots of people can enjoy shows there! This amazing building was made possible by Jacob Klein, a lawyer from Bridgeport. He loved his city and left money so this special place could be built for everyone to enjoy.
The Klein opened its doors in 1940. It was designed in a unique style called Art Deco. This means it has cool features like bronze doors, a shiny marble lobby, and fancy wood designs. You'll also see geometric shapes everywhere!
Contents
A Stage for Stars: Past and Present
Over the years, many famous people have performed or spoken at The Klein. Imagine seeing legends like Leonard Bernstein, a famous conductor, or the inspiring civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. Eleanor Roosevelt, a former First Lady, also visited.
Music and More: Who's Been Here?
The Klein has hosted all kinds of musical acts. From rock stars like Alice Cooper and Peter Frampton to blues legends like B.B. King and Buddy Guy, there's been music for everyone. Jazz greats like Herbie Hancock and Wynton Marsalis have also played on its stage. Even reggae star Ziggy Marley and comedy icon George Carlin have performed here!
Beyond Concerts: Community Events
The Klein isn't just for big concerts. It's also a hub for the local community. Many dance schools hold their recitals here, and high school graduations happen on its stage. The Greater Bridgeport Symphony Orchestra has called The Klein home for over 60 years! Other groups like the New England Ballet Company and the Greater Bridgeport Youth Orchestras also perform regularly.
Notable Performers and Speakers
- Pat Benatar
- Leonard Bernstein
- George Carlin
- Bill Cosby
- BB King
- Martin Luther King Jr.
- Bob Newhart
- Alice Cooper
- Duke Ellington
- Jose Iturbi
- David Bar-Illan
- Wynton Marsalis and Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra
- Donald Trump
- Isabelle Peck