How to Explore the KiMo Theatre Contemporary Wing Albuquerque

The KiMo Theatre in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is more than a historic landmark—it is a living cultural institution that bridges the past and present through architecture, performance, and community engagement. While the theatre’s iconic Pueblo Deco design and 1927 origins draw global attention, its lesser-known yet equally compelling Contemporary Wing represents a bold evolution in how historic venues adapt to modern artistic expression. Exploring the KiMo Theatre Contemporary Wing is not simply a tour of additional spaces; it is an immersive journey into how preservation and innovation coexist in a single architectural narrative. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap for visitors, artists, historians, and urban enthusiasts seeking to understand, navigate, and appreciate this unique cultural expansion. Whether you're planning your first visit or returning to discover new layers, this tutorial equips you with the knowledge to experience the Contemporary Wing with depth, context, and purpose.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the Historical Context Before You Arrive

Before stepping onto the grounds of the KiMo Theatre, take time to learn about its origins. Opened in 1927, the KiMo was designed by William M. R. French and built as a “movie palace” during the golden age of cinema. Its name—derived from the Keres word for “mountain” and the Navajo word for “village”—reflects its deep roots in Southwestern Indigenous culture. The original structure features intricate stucco walls, hand-painted murals, and a star-studded ceiling that mimics the desert night sky. The Contemporary Wing, completed in 2018, was conceived not as a replacement, but as an extension that honors this heritage while introducing modern performance technologies and flexible programming.

Understanding this duality is essential. The Contemporary Wing does not overshadow the original theatre—it dialogues with it. Visitors who grasp this relationship will notice how the wing’s materials, lighting, and spatial flow echo the original’s motifs while utilizing sustainable, high-efficiency systems. Research the KiMo’s 2010 restoration and the community-led campaign that funded the wing. This background transforms your visit from passive observation to active appreciation.

2. Plan Your Visit Around Programming

The Contemporary Wing is not a static exhibit—it is a dynamic performance space. Unlike traditional museums, its galleries, rehearsal rooms, and black-box theatre are activated by live events. To maximize your exploration, align your visit with scheduled programming. Check the official KiMo Theatre calendar monthly for events such as:

• Experimental theatre performances
• Indigenous film screenings with post-show discussions
• Local artist residencies and open studios
• Sound design workshops and immersive audio installations

Many events in the Contemporary Wing are free or low-cost, and some require reservations. Arriving early allows you to observe the transition from backstage to stage, witness lighting cues being tested, or engage with artists during pre-show mingling. The wing’s design encourages interaction—unlike the formal seating of the main auditorium, the Contemporary Wing often features standing-room-only spaces, movable seating, and tactile installations that invite touch and participation.

3. Begin Your Tour at the Entrance Pavilion

Your journey through the Contemporary Wing begins not inside the main theatre, but at the new entrance pavilion located on the west side of the property. This structure, clad in locally sourced limestone and perforated metal screens, serves as a transitional zone between the historic facade and the modern extension. Notice the subtle integration of traditional Pueblo geometric patterns into the metalwork—these are not decorative add-ons but structural elements that cast dynamic shadows throughout the day.

Inside the pavilion, you’ll find a digital kiosk with an interactive map of the entire KiMo complex. Use it to orient yourself. The kiosk also features audio snippets from original architects, local elders, and contemporary performers explaining their connection to the space. Take 10 minutes to listen to at least three of these recordings—they provide emotional context that enriches your physical experience.

4. Explore the Flex Space: The Heart of the Wing

The central feature of the Contemporary Wing is the Flex Space—a 150-seat, reconfigurable performance area with motorized walls, ceiling-mounted lighting grids, and acoustic panels that can be adjusted for different sound environments. Unlike traditional theatres, this space has no fixed stage or seating. Performers and audiences may be on the same level, or audiences may be seated in concentric circles around a central platform.

Observe the floor: it is made of reclaimed Douglas fir from a decommissioned railroad trestle in northern New Mexico. The grain direction subtly guides movement through the space. Look for the embedded LED strips along the baseboards—they illuminate in response to live sound, creating an ambient visual rhythm that changes with each performance.

If you’re visiting during a non-performance day, request a guided walkthrough of the Flex Space’s technical systems. The stage manager may demonstrate how the walls can shift from a proscenium layout to a thrust configuration in under three minutes. This flexibility is what allows the KiMo to host everything from avant-garde dance to spoken-word poetry slams without compromising acoustics or sightlines.

5. Visit the Artist Incubator Studios

On the second floor of the Contemporary Wing, a series of six studios serve as creative laboratories for local artists. These are not locked galleries—they are active workspaces where painters, sculptors, choreographers, and digital media artists develop new projects. Many studios have glass walls so visitors can observe the creative process in real time.

Look for the rotating exhibits on the studio doors. Each month, a different artist is featured with a brief bio and a QR code linking to their online portfolio. Some studios host “Open Studio Sundays,” where visitors can chat with creators over coffee. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. Artists here are encouraged to explain their work, and many are deeply invested in community dialogue.

One recurring theme in the studios is the use of recycled materials from the original theatre’s 2010 renovation: salvaged wood from the balcony railings, repurposed velvet from old curtains, and copper wiring from the original lighting system. These materials are transformed into new art pieces that tell a story of continuity.

6. Experience the Rooftop Garden and Skyline View

Accessed via a glass-enclosed elevator or a spiral staircase lined with native desert plants, the rooftop garden offers one of the most serene and symbolic spaces in the entire complex. Designed by landscape architect Lila R. Gonzales, the garden features drought-tolerant species such as yucca, agave, and desert marigold arranged in concentric rings that mirror the KiMo’s original ceiling design.

At the center of the garden stands a stone obelisk inscribed with a poem in both English and Keres, written by a local Indigenous poet. The obelisk casts a shadow that aligns precisely with the setting sun on the summer solstice—a deliberate nod to ancient astronomical traditions.

The rooftop also provides panoramic views of downtown Albuquerque and the Sandia Mountains. Bring a notebook. Many visitors use this space for reflection, journaling, or sketching. The quiet hum of the city below contrasts with the stillness of the garden, creating a powerful sensory experience that encapsulates the KiMo’s mission: to be a sanctuary of culture amid urban life.

7. Engage with the Digital Archive Kiosk

Located near the exit of the Contemporary Wing, the Digital Archive Kiosk is a self-guided terminal featuring over 200 hours of recorded material: oral histories from original KiMo staff, footage of past performances in the wing, architectural blueprints, and interviews with community members who advocated for its construction.

Use the search function to find specific topics: “Indigenous collaboration,” “sustainable design,” or “youth programming.” The archive is searchable by date, medium, or contributor. You can even download audio clips to your phone for later listening. This is not a museum exhibit—it is a living library that grows with every new performance and community event.

8. Participate in a Community Dialogue Session

Monthly, the KiMo hosts “Wing Talks”—open forums where artists, educators, and residents discuss the role of historic theatres in contemporary society. Topics range from cultural appropriation in performance to funding models for public arts spaces. These sessions are not lectures; they are conversations. Everyone is welcome to speak, and no opinion is dismissed.

Attending a Wing Talk is the most meaningful way to understand the wing’s social impact. Many participants report that these discussions changed how they view their own neighborhoods and the potential for arts spaces to foster civic connection. Check the website for upcoming sessions and arrive 15 minutes early to secure a seat.

9. Document Your Experience Thoughtfully

Photography is permitted throughout the Contemporary Wing, but flash and tripods are prohibited in performance areas. Instead of capturing only the grand vistas, focus on details: the texture of a repurposed curtain, the reflection of light on a steel beam, the handwritten notes on a rehearsal schedule.

Consider keeping a visual journal. Sketch the layout of the Flex Space. Note how the acoustics change when you move from one corner to another. Write down a phrase you overheard during a rehearsal. These personal records become more valuable than Instagram photos—they become your unique interpretation of the space.

10. Extend Your Exploration Beyond the Wing

The Contemporary Wing was designed to connect—not isolate. After your visit, walk to the adjacent National Hispanic Cultural Center (a 10-minute stroll), the Albuquerque Museum, or the historic Old Town Plaza. Notice how the KiMo’s architectural language echoes in these neighboring institutions. Many local artists exhibit across all three spaces.

Consider joining the KiMo’s “Cultural Passport” program, which offers discounted entry to partner venues and invites you to complete a series of creative challenges—like writing a poem inspired by a mural or recording a sound collage from street performers. This transforms your visit from a single outing into an ongoing relationship with Albuquerque’s arts ecosystem.

Best Practices

Respect the Space as a Living Environment

The Contemporary Wing is not a monument to be admired from a distance. It is an active, breathing entity shaped by daily use. Avoid touching surfaces unnecessarily, even if they appear to be interactive. Many materials are sensitive to oils from skin. If you’re unsure whether something can be touched, ask a staff member.

Arrive Early and Stay Late

Most visitors arrive 15 minutes before a show and leave immediately after. To truly understand the wing, arrive 45 minutes early and stay 30 minutes after. You’ll witness the quiet moments: the stage crew adjusting lights, the artist warming up, the audience settling in. These are the moments that reveal the soul of the space.

Engage with Staff and Volunteers

The KiMo employs a team of trained cultural ambassadors—not just ushers, but storytellers who know the history, the art, and the people behind each event. Ask them about their favorite memory in the wing. Their responses often reveal hidden stories not found in brochures.

Use the Wi-Fi Access Points for Enhanced Content

Throughout the wing, Wi-Fi hotspots are labeled with small brass plaques. Connecting to them unlocks location-specific audio tours, artist interviews, and historical photos that appear on your phone screen as you move through the space. This augmented reality layer deepens your understanding without requiring an app download.

Support Local Artisans

The gift shop in the pavilion features only items made by New Mexico artists: hand-thrown pottery, woven textiles using traditional techniques, and limited-edition prints of KiMo architectural details. Purchasing here directly supports the community that sustains the wing.

Practice Quiet Observation

In the studios and the rooftop garden, silence is a form of respect. Even if no one is visibly working, someone may be in deep concentration. Avoid loud conversations. Let the space speak for itself.

Bring a Reusable Water Bottle

The KiMo is committed to zero single-use plastics. Water refill stations are available on every floor. This small act aligns with the wing’s sustainable design philosophy.

Follow the “Leave No Trace” Ethic

Whether you’re viewing a performance or wandering the garden, take nothing but photos and leave nothing but footprints. This includes litter, notes, or even flower petals. The wing is a shared space, and its integrity depends on collective care.

Consider Volunteering

Volunteers help with ushering, archiving, and community outreach. No prior experience is needed—just curiosity and commitment. Many long-term volunteers say their involvement changed their relationship with art and their city.

Share Your Experience Responsibly

If you post about your visit on social media, tag the KiMo Theatre and use the hashtag

KiMoContemporaryWing. Avoid using the space as a backdrop for selfies without context. Instead, share what you learned, who you met, or how the experience moved you.

Tools and Resources

Official KiMo Theatre Website

The primary resource for up-to-date information is kimothatre.org. The site includes the full event calendar, virtual tours, educational resources for teachers, and a downloadable “Contemporary Wing Explorer Kit” with maps, discussion prompts, and artist bios.

Albuquerque Arts Alliance App

Available on iOS and Android, this app aggregates events across 40+ cultural venues in the city. It includes real-time notifications for last-minute openings in the KiMo’s studios and walking tour suggestions based on your location.

Google Arts & Culture: KiMo Theatre Collection

Google’s platform hosts a curated digital exhibit titled “Pueblo Deco to Contemporary: The Evolution of the KiMo.” It features high-resolution 360-degree views of the original theatre and the wing, along with expert commentary from architectural historians.

Books and Publications

• “The KiMo: Architecture and Identity in the American Southwest” by Dr. Elena M. Rivera (University of New Mexico Press, 2021)
• “Reimagining Heritage: How Historic Theatres Adapt in the 21st Century” by James T. Delgado (Arcadia Publishing, 2020)
• “Voices of the Wing: Oral Histories from Albuquerque’s Arts Community” (Published by the KiMo Cultural Foundation, 2022)

Local Libraries and Archives

The Albuquerque Public Library’s Special Collections Department holds original blueprints, newspaper clippings from the wing’s construction, and recordings of early community meetings. Access is free and requires no appointment.

University Partnerships

The University of New Mexico’s Department of Theatre and Dance offers semester-long internships at the KiMo. Students assist with stage management, marketing, and community outreach. Their research often leads to public exhibitions in the wing.

Audio Guides and Podcasts

Listen to “The KiMo Podcast,” a monthly series hosted by local arts journalist Marisol Cruz. Episodes include behind-the-scenes interviews, soundscapes from performances, and discussions on decolonizing performance spaces.

Mobile Apps for Accessibility

The KiMo offers a free app called “KiMo Access” that provides real-time captioning for performances, audio descriptions for visually impaired visitors, and tactile maps for those with mobility challenges. Download it before your visit.

Workshops and Educational Programs

The KiMo offers quarterly workshops for educators on integrating arts history into K–12 curricula. These are open to the public and include lesson plans, activity kits, and field trip guides.

Real Examples

Example 1: The “Desert Echoes” Sound Installation

In spring 2023, sound artist Tanya Lujan installed “Desert Echoes” in the Flex Space. Using field recordings from the surrounding desert—wind through mesquite trees, distant coyote calls, the crunch of sand underfoot—she created a 45-minute ambient composition that played on loop during daylight hours. Visitors were invited to lie on the floor and listen. The installation was so popular that it was extended for three months. Many attendees reported feeling a deep sense of connection to the land. This project exemplifies how the Contemporary Wing functions as a canvas for sensory, place-based art.

Example 2: Youth Theater Collective

A group of eight high school students from the South Valley neighborhood partnered with the KiMo to create “Tales from the Barrio,” a multilingual performance blending spoken word, dance, and puppetry. Rehearsals took place in the Artist Incubator Studios. The final show sold out and was streamed to over 5,000 viewers worldwide. The students received scholarships to study theatre at UNM. This example shows how the wing empowers underrepresented voices.

Example 3: The Solar Curtain Project

Engineers from Sandia National Laboratories collaborated with the KiMo to design a kinetic curtain made of photovoltaic fabric that generates electricity during daylight hours. Installed in the Flex Space, the curtain changes opacity based on sunlight intensity and powers the wing’s lighting system. This project received national recognition for sustainable architecture and is now a case study in university engineering programs.

Example 4: The Memory Wall

During the wing’s first anniversary, the KiMo invited community members to submit written memories of the theatre on small ceramic tiles. Over 1,200 tiles were collected and arranged into a mosaic wall near the entrance. One tile read: “My grandmother brought me here in 1952. I brought my daughter here in 2022. This place holds our family.” This wall is now a permanent feature, reminding all visitors that the wing’s true value lies in its human connections.

Example 5: The Night Watch Residency

A visual artist was granted a two-week residency to create work in the wing after hours. Using only moonlight and the glow of emergency exit signs, she painted a series of abstract pieces on reclaimed wood. The resulting exhibition, “Nocturne in Pueblo Deco,” was displayed in the gallery and attracted visitors who came specifically to experience art made in silence.

FAQs

Is there an admission fee to explore the Contemporary Wing?

There is no general admission fee to enter the Contemporary Wing during daylight hours. However, access to performances, workshops, and special events may require tickets. The Flex Space, studios, and rooftop garden are open to the public during posted hours.

Can I take photos inside the Contemporary Wing?

Yes, personal photography is allowed without flash or tripods. Commercial photography requires prior written permission from the KiMo Theatre’s communications team.

Is the Contemporary Wing accessible for visitors with disabilities?

Yes. The entire wing is fully ADA-compliant, with elevators, tactile signage, wheelchair-accessible seating in the Flex Space, and audio description services available upon request.

Are guided tours available?

Guided tours are offered on Saturdays at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Reservations are recommended but not required. Private tours for groups of 10 or more can be scheduled by contacting the education department.

Can I host a private event in the Contemporary Wing?

Yes. The Flex Space and rooftop garden are available for private rentals, including weddings, corporate events, and art receptions. All events must align with the KiMo’s mission of cultural accessibility and sustainability.

How do I become a volunteer or intern?

Visit kimothatre.org/volunteer to fill out an application. Opportunities are available year-round for individuals of all ages and backgrounds.

Does the Contemporary Wing host educational programs for schools?

Yes. The KiMo offers curriculum-aligned field trips for grades K–12, including hands-on workshops in stage design, lighting, and storytelling. Teachers can request materials through the education portal on the website.

What is the best time of year to visit?

Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the most pleasant weather for exploring the rooftop garden. Summer months feature the most performances, while winter is quieter and ideal for reflective visits.

Can I bring food or drinks into the Contemporary Wing?

Food and beverages are permitted only in designated areas: the pavilion café and the rooftop garden. No food is allowed in performance or studio spaces to protect equipment and artwork.

Is there parking available?

Yes. Free parking is available in the KiMo’s west lot and on surrounding streets. Bicycle racks and EV charging stations are also provided.

Conclusion

Exploring the KiMo Theatre Contemporary Wing is not a passive activity—it is an act of cultural participation. This space does not merely display art; it cultivates it. It does not preserve history in amber; it reanimates it through dialogue, experimentation, and community. As you move through its halls, you are not just observing architecture—you are witnessing the evolution of a city’s soul.

The wing’s true power lies in its humility. It does not shout. It listens. It invites. It transforms materials, memories, and voices into something new. Whether you’re an artist seeking inspiration, a student researching urban renewal, or a traveler curious about the heartbeat of Albuquerque, the Contemporary Wing offers a rare gift: the chance to be part of something that is still being made.

Return not just to see, but to contribute. Attend a performance. Speak with an artist. Leave a note on the Memory Wall. Let your presence add another layer to its story. The KiMo Theatre Contemporary Wing is not a destination—it is a beginning. And your next visit might just be the one that changes how you see your own community, your own creativity, and the enduring power of place.