Lindenwood Auditorium History:

Designed and constructed in 1924 by renowned St. Louis architect, William B. Ittner, Lindenwood Auditorium received a $2 million facelift in 2005 to restore it to its original pristine condition. The facility is a prime example of early 20th Century architecture and has provided the location for musical and theatrical performances for nearly 90 years.

As part of the former Belleville West High School, the auditorium holds special memories for generations of Belleville graduates. The renowned actors who began their careers on the center stage – Buddy Ebsen and David Rasche among them – are just a few of the many thousands who first experienced the thrill of live performances here.

In 2005, the building was officially named “Lindenwood Auditorium” by donors Fred and Barbara Kern. Capable of seating 940, the auditorium boasts a stage that is 30’ deep and 50’ wide and has excellent acoustics. Lindenwood-Belleville was named one out of 84 official Steinway Schools in the nation after receiving its first Steinway Piano in September 2008. In addition, the Auditorium received the Landmark Award from the St. Clair County Historical Society in October 2008.

The first public performance in the Lindenwood Auditorium was the 33rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment Band in October 2005.

Since then, the Auditorium has hosted countless other performances, including the following:

• Becky Kern Dance
• Belleville Elite Dance Academy
• Branson on the Road Show
• Brass Rail Players
• Men’s Barbershop Christmas Concert
• Mrs. Illinois Pageant
• Scott Air Force Band of Mid-America
• Fox Foundation for the Performing Arts
• Kennedy Center for Young Audiences