After four sold-out performances, Hemlock reimagines a beloved space to serve students and the community for generations to come.
The final curtain has closed on the Larry Gariglio Theatre as we have known it, but the story is far from over.
In a fitting sendoff, Hemlock High School recently hosted four sold-out performances that brought the community together to celebrate student talent, dedication, and the power of the arts. The performances marked the final shows in the current configuration of the theatre, ending an era filled with memories, music, and moments that will last a lifetime.
Now, beginning this Spring Break, the next chapter begins.
“This is one of those moments where you pause and appreciate what has been, while getting excited about what is ahead,” said Superintendent Don Killingbeck. “The stage, the lights, and the curtain are all staying. The magic is not going anywhere. We are simply expanding what this space can be for our students and our community.”
When the space reopens this fall, the Larry Gariglio Theatre will be transformed into a multi-purpose dining and event space designed to serve a wide range of needs. While preserving its theatrical core, the reimagined space will now host professional development, banquets, meetings, presentations, dinner theatre, and community events.
“This is about maximizing opportunity,” said Board of Education President Matt Wesener. “We are taking a space that already meant so much to our district and expanding its impact. It will allow us to serve more people, host more events, and continue to bring our community together in meaningful ways.”
The transformation also includes the conversion of the former band room, which has served as a weight room in recent years, into a modern kitchen and serving area. The upgraded space will feature expanded food service capabilities, including a hibachi-style grill and other enhancements that will support both daily use and special events.
For students, the transition represents both reflection and excitement.
“It is definitely bittersweet knowing that was the last show in that space as we knew it,” said a Hemlock High School student performer. “But it is also exciting to know that future students will still get to perform there and that the space will be used in even more ways. The memories will always be there.”
Named after longtime educational leader Larry Gariglio, the theatre has long stood as a symbol of vision, leadership, and commitment to students. That legacy continues through this transformation.
By reimagining and repurposing the space, Hemlock Public School District is positioning itself to better serve students and the community, not just today, but for the next 70 years and beyond.
The room will look different. Its purpose will grow. But its impact will remain.
At Hemlock, that is what progress looks like. Honoring the past. Keeping what matters most. And building something even better for what comes next.
