Is Grand Rapids about to unlock an $807 million future…or roll the dice on an expensive gamble?
On May 15, 2026, the new Acrisure Amphitheater opens its doors on the Grand River. The first voice to test those speakers will not be a local cover band. It will be Lionel Richie. A Motown legend. A global icon. And now, the very first artist to walk onto that new stage.
Richie is an official Acrisure Brand Ambassador. He has called the company’s culture “limitless,” and he says he can already feel the buzz around opening night. If it goes well, this show will be the “proof of concept” that sets the tone for everything that comes next.
And there is a lot coming next.
The War and Treaty, the Grammy-nominated duo from Albion, are on the bill. So is Brian Vander Ark of The Verve Pipe, the West Michigan kid who once had to drive to other cities just to see a big show. Now, that kind of night is supposed to live right here in Grand Rapids.
The math behind it all is bold:
• $184 million to build.
• 12,000 seats under a massive canopy.
• 54 shows a year.
• 300,000 visitors annually.
• $807 million in projected impact over 30 years.
Acrisure Amphitheater announces opening concert
Local cameras were rolling as city leaders and Acrisure confirmed Lionel Richie as the very first headliner for the new amphitheater, complete with “Grand Opening” graphics, the May 15, 2026 date, and fresh renderings of the 12,000-seat space on the river.
Lionel Richie will be the opening act at Acrisure Amphitheater
Before he sings a word, Grand Rapids will meet The War and Treaty, the powerhouse husband-and-wife duo chosen to carry the “Michigan native” banner into this historic night. Their live performances are loud, joyful, and full of grit, the kind of southern soul energy that can wake up every seat in a 12,000-capacity crowd.