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Venue: Virginia Theatre

Address: 203 W. Park St. , Champaign

Entry Age: all

Posted 12:50 am Nov 18
Updated 12:51 am Nov 18

Upon first stepping in through the front doors under the eye-catching marquee, guests will find that Virginia Theatre radiates with its 1920’s charm and grand demeanor. Located in downtown Champaign and within walking distance of many cafés and restaurants, the theatre is the home of an eclectic array of performances. The theatre opened its doors for the first time on Dec. 28, 1921 as a vaudeville house and has been providing a broad collection of culturally geared entertainment ever since.

Virginia Theatre brings culture to the community in many different ways. These include a selection of musical performances consisting of everything from holiday performances to the theatre’s rendition of the Battle of the Bands, comedy performances, musicals and plays. The theatre also often shows single film events of movies that have long been out of theatres and are sure to draw a crowd such as It’s a Wonderful Life and Back to the Future. Additionally, the theatre hosts “reel deals” several times a month, featuring films that have just left theaters and offering admission for a nominal price.

What’s more, Virginia Theatre’s more recent claim to fame has been hosting Roger Ebert’s Ebertfest for the past ten years, ever since the Champaign Park District took on control of the beautiful theatre in 2000. The festival lasts five days and showcases films that have been overlooked by the popular view.

In the past few years, Virginia Theatre has been in the process of renovating in order to update the technological and structural aspects of the theatre while keeping the focus on maintaining the charm and ambiance of the historic building and its stunning architecture. This summer and autumn the theatre will be having its lobby and concession stand revamped thanks to a generous donation. Jody Groff, the theatre’s Facility Coordinator, states that it’s important for the theatre to retain its historic roots, allowing guests to experience a similar atmosphere and enrapture as when the Virginia Theatre first opened in 1921.

Whatever your entertainment taste may be the Virginia Theatre is sure to have a performance to your liking. For more information, visit the Virginia Theatre website, or contact the office via telephone: 217-356-9053.