The Chicago Theatre

08/14/03

A revered symbol of the North Loop's resurgence.

by Contributor at Citysearch

The Venue
The theater itself is something to behold: ornate decorations in red, red and more red, scenic murals decorating the walls, chandeliers and plush seating. The main floor seats 1,970, including side boxes, and the balcony, also equipped with boxes, seats 1,540. Main-floor seating generally provides good views of the stage, though closer is better, obviously, given the sheer size of the room.

The Experience
One of the most versatile halls in the North Loop, the Chicago Theatre's offerings span musicals ("Fame"), comedians (D.L. Hughley) and touring musicians (everyone from Johnny Mathis to Philip Glass to The Wiggles). Rising straight up above the entrance to this State Street landmark, the "C-H-I-C-A-G-O" marquee, with more than 3,600 lights and a miniature Arc de Triomphe, has become a revered symbol of the North Loop's resurgence. It's an apt icon, as the massive theater's 1986 restoration was the most visible first effort to reverse the decline of State Street.