Athenaeum Theatre

Frequently Asked Questions

Where was the Paradise theater in Chicago?

The Paradise Theater in Chicago was located at 231 North Crawford Avenue, which is now known as Pulaski Road, on the city's West Side. Opened in 1928, it was renowned for its opulent Baroque architecture and was considered one of the most beautiful movie palaces of its era. Despite its grandeur, the Paradise Theater struggled financially and closed in 1956. The building was subsequently demolished in 1956, and today, no remnants of the theater remain on its original site. The Paradise Theater holds a special place in Chicago's entertainment history as one of the city's lost architectural gems.

How many people can fit in the Athenaeum Theatre Chicago?

The Athenaeum Theatre in Chicago has a main stage auditorium with a seating capacity of approximately 985 people. This historic venue, located at 2936 N. Southport Avenue, is known for its intimate yet spacious setting, making it ideal for live performances, theatrical productions, concerts, and special events. In addition to the main auditorium, the Athenaeum also features smaller studio spaces that can accommodate additional guests for more intimate gatherings or performances. With its blend of historic charm and modern amenities, the Athenaeum Theatre is a versatile venue that can cater to a range of event sizes and audience needs.

How many people can the Athenaeum Theatre hold?

The Athenaeum Theatre can hold up to approximately 985 people in its main auditorium. This makes it one of Chicago's larger neighborhood theaters, suitable for a wide variety of performances and events. The venue also includes three studio theaters, which offer more flexible seating arrangements for smaller audiences, typically ranging from 50 to 90 seats each. The total capacity varies depending on the configuration and use of these additional spaces. The Athenaeum Theatre's ability to accommodate both large and small audiences makes it a popular choice for everything from mainstage productions to community gatherings and private functions.

What is the Oriental Theatre in Chicago called now?

The Oriental Theatre in Chicago is now called the James M. Nederlander Theatre. Located at 24 West Randolph Street in the heart of Chicago's Loop, this iconic venue was renamed in 2019 to honor Broadway theater impresario James M. Nederlander. The theater originally opened in 1926 as the Oriental Theatre and quickly became an architectural landmark, known for its lavish East Indian-inspired décor and ornate details. Today, the James M. Nederlander Theatre continues to host major Broadway shows and touring productions, maintaining its reputation as one of Chicago's premier destinations for live entertainment.