Monday, August 16, 1999
The University Daily Kansan
Section A · Page 3
Downtown business area gets new face,new store
By Clay McCusition reporter @kansan.com Kansan staff writer
Entertainment and shopping on the block of 10th and Massachusetts Streets will have a new face this fall.
The Granada, 1020 Massachusetts St., is being renovated inside and outside to heighten its dance club atmosphere. And after two years of vacancy, the former Varsity Theater, 1013 Massachusetts St., is home to an Urban Outfitters clothing store.
"We're trying to preserve it, but at the same time we're trying to make it funky and new and fresh," said Nicki Geist, one of the Granada's managers.
Although the Granada will remain open, its renovations will take place during the morning and early afternoon hours during the next six months.
The renovations began last week. And month the, Granada added a Latin American dance night called "Viva Ritmo" ("Long Live Rhythm"). Each Wednesday evening features a wide array of Latin music played by a deejay. Though live bands may appear at Viva Ritmo in the future, the emphasis is on dancing.
"That was one of our big projects, getting that done,
because it's the first thing people see." Goel said.
"We're still a live music venue, but we're primarily a dance club." Geist said.
Inside the building, new furniture and fittings will update and brighten the decor. As with the other changes, the Granada management hopes the interior alterations will highlight the club as an attractive locale for drinks and dancing.
"There have been a couple of people who liked it better as a movie theater, but the movie theater had been closed for two years," said manager Robbie Talley. "Mostly, people are very impressed."
"It's an investment, but it's obviously worth it," Geist said. "We want to make sure all our dance nights are busy."
Across the street from the Granada, Urban Outfitters inhabits the former Varsity Theater. The store opened July 14.
There are no movie screens or plush seats in the Varsity Theater anymore. Gleaming iron beams, graypainted concrete floors and a spiraling staircase showcase a large clothing collection, candles, books and assorted bric-a-brac.
"It definitely will bring foot traffic and business to this end of downtown." Talley said. "It's more of a destination store than a run-of-the-mill mall store."
After 2 years of vacancy and renovation, the Varsity Theater, 1013 Massachusetts St. is now home to an Urban Outfitters clothing store. Urban Outfitters is the only store in Kansas.
Photo by Christina Neff / KANSAN
Urban Outfitters has about 30 locations throughout North America. The chain's Lawrence store is the only one in Kansas.
"It's a lot different from any of the other stores on Mass. street," said Megan Prather, Columbia, Mo., sophomore, who was shopping last weekend. "It's a cool-looking store."
Prather had visited an Urban Outfitters store once before, in New York. She said she was surprised and happy to find one in Lawrence.
"Last night we were walking on Mass, and we got all excited," Prather said. "I think it's great."
- Edited by Allan Davis
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