COLUMBUS, OH (CelebrityAccess) – TempleLive, a thriving network of music venues operated in former Masonic temples, has successfully acquired Columbus’ iconic Athenaeum theatre in an all-stock transaction that concluded on December 1, 2023.
Rob Thomas, TempleLive President, expressed excitement about the expansion, stating, “We are thrilled to add the Athenaeum to our operational footprint. Columbus is an exciting market with a vibrant music scene, and we look forward to bringing amazing concerts and events to this well-known and historic venue.”
This marks the fourth previous Masonic building under TempleLive’s ownership, with existing venues in Cleveland, OH, Wichita, KS, and Fort Smith, AR, strategically positioning the company to cater to major Midwest markets. TempleLive not only hosts national touring bands, comedy shows, and theatrical performances but also meticulously restores and revitalizes these historically significant buildings, investing over $8 million in the renovation of the Cleveland Masonic Temple in 2023.
“The Athenaeum’s rich history and architectural beauty make it a notable venue in the Midwest,” said Justin Bridgwater, TempleLive Senior Talent Buyer. “The Athenaeum will soon be a sought-after destination for popular artists from diverse genres.”
While the Athenaeum has been a premier event and wedding venue in Columbus since the 1990s, TempleLive plans to continue hosting private events while incorporating national touring acts, local and regional bands, and comedy shows, aiming to bring 100 performances to Columbus annually.
“As we expand venue operations in the central U.S., having anchor venues in both the Cleveland and Columbus markets improves our routing for artists,” said Thomas. The unique construction of these historic Masonic temples, with multiple theaters and performance rooms, offers flexibility for booking smaller acts alongside more established clients.
TempleLive has already scheduled notable events at the Athenaeum, including performances by internationally acclaimed vocalists The Irish Tenors on March 24, renowned comedian and SNL alum Jim Breuer on April 20, and Mexico’s Grammy-winning duo Rodrigo y Gabriella on May 15.
