Community Support Needed to Rebuild
A structural collapse at one of Kenosha’s most cherished music venues has left a cultural void in the heart of downtown. The White Lilac, a 50-seat listening room renowned for its intimate concerts and commitment to bold, original music, was forced to halt all future shows after a section of its exterior wall gave way earlier today.
No injuries were reported, but the damage has rendered the venue unsafe, with significant repairs now required before operations can resume.
“This is heartbreaking,” spokesperson Kelly Mackay shared in a statement. “While we’re relieved no one was hurt, we’re now facing a challenge we never expected — and we can’t meet it alone.”
Since its opening, The White Lilac has earned a reputation as one of Southeast Wisconsin’s most respected small performance spaces. Dubbed “a room that listens,” the venue has hosted an eclectic range of artists — from Grammy nominees to underground legends — all in an environment built for connection and discovery.
With insurance expected to cover only part of the damage, organizers are now turning to the public for help. A fundraising campaign has been launched to help cover not only structural repairs but also artist cancellations, ticket refunds, lost income, and day-to-day operating costs during the closure.
“We’ve poured our hearts into this space,” Mackay continued. “If you’ve ever been here, you know what makes it special — not just the music, but the community it creates.”
Donations of any amount are welcome, and supporters are also encouraged to spread the word about the campaign. Contributions will go directly toward restoring the venue and ensuring The White Lilac can continue its mission of bringing transformative live arts to Kenosha.