You will see the Oriental Theatre Marquee. Since then, the Chicago Theatre usually hosts comedians, musicians, and sometimes a Broadway tour.ĭirections: Walk south on State Street and turn right on Randolph. Luckily, it reopened in 1986 with a stunning concert starring Frank Sinatra. The Chicago Theatre played films and occasionally live music faithfully until the theatre was closed in 1985 due to the economy and social changes along State Street.

It was replaced with a replica in 2004 and the original is now owned by the Smithsonian. This is the coat of arms for Balaban and Katz, the founders of a theatre chain. In the stained glass window, you will see two horse holding ribbons of 35-mm film in their mouths. Along the arc- look for the masks on either side representing the drama faces of comedy and tragedy. The exterior of the building features a replica of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The Chicago Theatre was designed as a movie palace in French Baroque style in 1921 by the architecture firm famous for theatre design: Rapp & Rapp. Nearest El Stop: State and Lake (All trains except Blue) State Street in front of the Chicago Theater It's worth checking out Goldstar, Groupon or LivingSocial, for special deals and discounts on Theater and Show tickets in Chicago.++ ++Tip: If you are looking to attend a show or concert, check out our blog on Theater Discount Tickets. There are many other gorgeous theater buildings and incredible theater companies in other areas of Chicago.īe sure to also check out our full selection of self-guided tours of Chicago. This tour will explore the downtown Theater District and the gorgeous architecture of the old movie palaces and concert venues.

City walk theatre