URGENT UPDATE: The K.L. Peters Auditorium at Beverly Hills High School has officially reopened after nearly a decade of renovations, marking a significant milestone for the Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD). The grand reopening ceremony took place on January 28, 2023, and drew a crowd of community members eager to witness the unveiling of this state-of-the-art facility.
With a seating capacity of 1,200, the newly renovated auditorium boasts cutting-edge theatrical technology, including a multistory lighting catwalk, advanced sound systems, and ADA-accessible features. The facility includes an orchestra pit that can be assembled or disassembled, new dressing rooms, and dedicated spaces for students to engage in set construction, ensuring a comprehensive learning environment for aspiring artists.
The long-awaited renovation, funded through local bond measures, was overseen by Will Karrat, Executive Director of Maintenance, Operations, and Construction, along with management firm Fonder-Solari. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by members of the Beverly Hills City Council, BHUSD Board of Education, parents, students, and other community stakeholders.
Judy Manouchehri, President of the BHUSD Board of Education, emphasized the importance of this reopening: “This reopening is the result of years of thoughtful planning and commitment to our students and community. Your presence reflects how deeply this district and these spaces matter to Beverly Hills.”
The auditorium will serve not only as a venue for music, theater, and dance programs but also as a gathering place for school assemblies, enhancing the overall educational experience. The advanced technology in the auditorium will support BHUSD’s theater tech pathway, allowing students to learn essential skills in lighting design and stagecraft.
During the ceremony, real estate agent Michael Libow, who donated the stage, addressed the audience: “If somebody is a new parent coming into the Beverly Hills community, they will now be proud to call this their high school. This is something that we can all be proud of in this community, and it brings people together.”
The event featured a BHHS string quartet serenading guests and culinary arts students serving hors d’oeuvres. The main performance was led by the BHHS Advanced Dance Theatre Group, which showcased a compelling contemporary dance, marking the auditorium’s first artistic performance.
Alex Cherniss, Superintendent of BHUSD, stated, “It’ll elevate the quality of what we do. Great events like this and amazing kids will want to come here because of our dance, theater, and arts.”
The auditorium also had a soft opening on January 27, where it hosted an assembly for Holocaust Remembrance Day, bringing together students to hear the powerful stories of five Holocaust survivors.
This reopening comes alongside other significant improvements on campus, including the renovated Salter Family Theatre and new athletic facilities. Manouchehri noted, “Tonight marks more than the reopening of a theater—it marks the fulfillment of a promise that every student deserves a space that honors their talent and amplifies their voice.”
As the community celebrates this achievement, the K.L. Peters Auditorium stands as a testament to BHUSD’s commitment to providing world-class educational facilities. The auditorium will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of artists and engaging the entire Beverly Hills community.
Stay tuned for more updates on upcoming performances and events at the K.L. Peters Auditorium.
