The Chicago Theatre, a historical landmark and the flagship movie palace theatre of Balaban & Katz was built in 1921, marking a significant era in the city’s cultural history. Initially, it had 5,000 seats, and they called it the Wonder Theatre of the World. Its grand presence, with its ornate decorations and stunning architecture, is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Chicago, leaving visitors in awe.
The cost of the land and the construction was $4 million. It was built by theatre owners Barney and Abe Balaban and Sam and Morris Katz and designed by Cornelius and George Rapp.
Each movie palace had its own unique style. The Chicago Theatre is a stunning example of the French Baroque style, known for its ornate decorations and grandeur. The Nederlander Theatre’s (originally the Oriental Theatre) style is from the Far East, while the elegant Uptown Theatre evokes a Spanish style. Other B&K movie palace theatres in Chicago included North: Belmont, Century/Diversey Theatre, Cine, Covent, Granada, Howard, Lakeside, Northshore, Nortown, and the Pantheon.
The spectacular lobby, modeled after the Royal Chapel at Versailles, is five stories high. The grand staircase is fashioned after the Paris Opera House and ascends to the various levels of the Great Balcony.
What does the Chicago Theatre’s exterior remind you of? (see opening photo) Perhaps the Paris’ Arc de Triomphe? It is sixty feet wide and six stories high. Look inside the arch of the grand window. You’ll see a large circular stained-glass panel with the coat-of-arms of the Balaban and Katz chain—two horses holding ribbons of 35-mm film in their mouths. These unique features add to the intrigue and charm of the Chicago Theatre.
The iconic State Street sign and marquee stands nearly six stories high and has 8915 lights. And, of course, locals know to point out the ‘Y’ shape (behind the horizontal marquee) that represents the Chicago River. It is a municipal symbol that dates back to the early days of Chicago. Now, you will see this symbol everywhere!
Here’s some history I remember from giving these tours without giving too much away. Vaudeville was the entertainment of choice in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Then came nickelodeons, which were a bit crude. Movies began to improve & flourished, becoming the primary source of entertainment (TV was still 30 years away). It created a need for better theatres. Then, the lavish movie palace was born. The Chicago Theatre was the flagship theatre and set the standard. It was a much-needed escape from reality during the Depression, featuring extravagant decor and new technology – air conditioning! Well-trained ushers (by West Point grads) whisked you to empty seats where you could stay all day (first come, first served) and were treated to multiple forms of entertainment for just 25-50 cents, depending on the time of day.
The Wurlitzer organ was a much-loved feature during the silent film era. The gradual transition from silent films to talkies was from 1926 to 1930. The beautiful (landmarked!) organ still resides in the Chicago Theatre and is played during occasional concerts. Look for the carved domes on the wall. These cleverly disguise the organ pipes behind the intricate carvings. Admire the lovely murals by Louis Grell, who once taught at the Art Institute of Chicago, and the gorgeous chandeliers by Victor Pearlman.
The Chicago Theatre went through three renovations and was very close to being demolished. Plans for a new, ugly commercial building were leaked to the public, and they revolted. Thank goodness! Plitt Theatres (part of Paramount Pictures) bought the Chicago Theatre. Frank Sinatra performed a sold-out show for the reopening in 1986.
Did you know that the Chicago Theatre offers a guided tour through the theatre? This tour, led by knowledgeable guides, takes you through the history and architecture of the theatre. If you are lucky enough to go on a day without a show being set up, you can view the dressing rooms and see the autographs of all the artists who performed there. I am not sure if they still do this, but I sure hope they do! Go to The Chicago Theatre Tour Experience to buy tickets.
I used to give these tours & highly recommend booking one. There are many more intriguing things to learn about the spectacular Chicago Theatre that I left out since I’m trying to pique your interest. I urge you to experience it for yourself. I may have to book one again soon since I can’t find my photos to show the exquisite interior.
An exhibit called Chicagoland Movie Palaces: A Century of Follies & Film is at the Elmhurst History Museum through January 5, 2025. Click here for details.