Genesee Theatre

The Genesee Theatre is a historic performance venue located at the corner of Genesee and Clayton Streets in Waukegan, Illinois. It was conceived as a community center aimed at providing high-quality entertainment, commercial, and living spaces for the local populace. The theatre was the brainchild of A.L. Brumund, H.C. Burnett, and D.T. Webb, who in 1926, purchased the land from the Y.M.C.A. for $130,000. Following an investment of $1 million and a year and a half of construction, the Genesee Theatre opened its doors to the public in 1927 as a luxurious movie palace. Designed to stand out among the other theatres in Waukegan, the Genesee Theatre was built to be a deluxe venue that could compete with the finest theatres in the country. The construction was led by Waukegan contractor Alva Weeks and Chicago architect Edward P. Steinberg, who had previously designed notable theatres in Chicago. The Genesee Theatre featured a façade of terra cotta and pressed brick, a grand lobby with a large chandelier, and an interior designed in a Spanish Renaissance style with caen stone and antique plaster décor. Its auditorium was crowned with a hammered silver dome, and the theatre boasted luxurious materials such as tapestry fabric, Carrara marble, and a 25,000 Barton Grande pipe organ. Throughout its history, the theatre has undergone several renovations. In 1952, it saw the addition of new seats, a sound system, and updates to its décor. However, by 1982, economic decline and the rise of multiplex cinemas led to the cessation of movie showings, and the theatre closed its doors in 1989. The City of Waukegan purchased the Genesee Theatre in 1999 and initiated a restoration project costing nearly $23 million, with the help of over 120 volunteers. The theatre was reopened on December 3, 2004, with efforts made to restore its original 1927 splendor, while also incorporating modern amenities and technology. The renovation included the replication of the original marquee based on historical photographs, the addition of a lobby on Genesee Street, and the reconfiguration of the original box office and Grand Lobby. The upper floors, previously housing apartments and office suites, were converted into theatre lounges. The auditorium's seating capacity was increased from 1,799 to 2,403 by extending the balcony and repositioning the projection booth. Antique chandeliers and light fixtures were sourced from across the country, and the stage was expanded and equipped with 21st-century technology to accommodate contemporary entertainment. Today, the Genesee Theatre stands as a testament to the hope and beauty of the early 20th century and continues to serve as a cultural hub for the Waukegan community. It hosts a variety of events, including comedy shows, fine arts performances, holiday specials, children's programming, musical concerts, and a variety of other entertainment options. The theatre also offers tours, allowing visitors to explore its rich history and architectural splendor. The Genesee Theatre remains a cherished landmark, not only for its historical significance but also for its role in enriching the cultural life of Waukegan and the surrounding areas.