From old to new, a building is reborn. The Library District in downtown Kansas City is no stranger to history. Those roots are embedded in the buildings that still stand today, many of which have been revitalized and reused. Enter the old Lyric Theatre + Shriners temple.
The 4.5-story facade at 11th Street and Central Avenue was first built nearly a century ago in 1926 by a Shriners chapter. The outside has remained relatively unchanged, yet the business inside has passed through several hands.
Today, a state-of-the-art YMCA is poised for a ribbon cutting after a $35 million renovation and reconstruction project. Though the end product is as futuristic as the 2020s can muster, the 1920s still maintain a presence in some of the building’s finer details.
History: the past 95 years
The Masonic fraternity’s temple, named the Ararat Shrine Temple — you can still see that name in the stonework above the columns — once seated 3,000 people. After the chapter went bankrupt a while later, the building served as a Red Cross blood donation center during WWII before renting out to theatre groups.
KMBC radio moved in not long after in 1947 and soon used it to house it’s TV station, Channel 9, when it was formed in 1953. It became multi-use; KMBC broadcasted from below the stage while the so-called Capri Theater played movies in the auditorium. The Lyric Opera took the stage in 1970. KMBC eventually moved out, and the Lyric Opera sold to DST Realty when they moved performances to the Kauffman Center in 2007.
Phil Kirk was the former chairman of DST. The YMCA told KCtoday that Kirk played a big role in revitalizing downtown. One can tell; DST signs are still all over the Library District. The Kirk family is also a longtime donor to the YMCA of Greater Kansas City. They helped turn the old temple into the brand new facility, which now wields their name.
Today, 45,000 sqft of new construction comprises the north side of the building. 2-story windows light up the inner wellness center — talk about views of downtown. Behind the building, there is an outdoor space for events and sports. The newly-built western side is made of limestone — from the same quarry that built the facade nearly a century ago.
Going inside: pre-workout
Stop and stare. This gym is set up to wow everyone who walks inside. Guests will experience 1920s molding, a history wall, and a view into the pool area the moment they walk in. Exterior changing rooms + lockers with built-in locks mean you don’t need to spend time in the standard locker room. Show up, grab a locker, and go.
Exercising: workout
This Y has heavily invested in technology — the goal is to attract a younger, downtown clientele. The spin class projects biking environments from around the world, the row machines simulate different bodies of water, and certain equipment can track your preferences and routines. Some classes will offer heart monitor-based workouts, and nearly all the machines integrate with your wearable. There’s also a focus on ability range. From equipment that integrates with a walker to weightlifting drop pads and a full-scale basketball court— there’s something for every skill set.
The other amenities: post-workout
It’s a health and wellness center, so it’s more than just a gym. The Kirk Family YMCA offers daycare options, multi-purpose spaces, and even a teaching kitchen included in certain health courses. Current plans include a health food cafe or convenience store on the ground floor, accessible to the public. Though the Y is still looking for a 3rd party partnership, the goal is to make healthy options available to everyone.
Need to know
Let’s talk money — Prices vary depending on the type of membership you buy. Teens 13-19 get the lowest price at $26.50/month. There are also special prices for young adults ($44.50), couples ($82.50), older adults 65+ (individual or couple), and families. Not to mention, there are also corporate packages and financial assistance for those who can’t afford their standard rates.
Want to see it for yourself? Right now, anyone can contact the Kirk Family YMCA to set up a tour. Friday tours run 9 a.m.-2 p.m. until the facility fully opens. Email Kirk@KansasCityYMCA.org to set up a time.
The Downtown Y is set to open Oct. 11. An official ribbon cutting ceremony will take place on Oct. 13.
We are showing more pictures from our trip to the Kirk Family YMCA on our Instagram account. Follow along and watch for new posts.
