Renovations Ahead for Des Plaines Theater?

Theater Set For Bigger Things?

Des Plaines Journal

Owner Considering Facility Improvements, Hosting More Events

The owner of the downtown Des Plaines Theater has begun the search to hire a new theatrical and movie manager and is considering interior building improvements as part of a plan to host more events and attract additional people to the downtown area.

According to Ald. Mark Walsten (6th), vice chairman of the city's Community Development Committee, theater building owner Dhitu Bhagwaker recently placed an ad for an operations manager in a movie trade journal. That individual would manage running the theater with part of his role securing movies and booking events such as concerts.

In addition, said Walsten, Bhagwaker has obtained one bid so far to remove the interior wall that divides the movie seating area into two sections. Originally, the theater, built in the mid 1920s, had one large viewing area that could accommodate as many as 700 to 800 people. It was divided several years ago to provide two viewing areas. Walsten said Bhagwaker's intent is to bring the theater back to its original life as a venue for live performances and movies.

"He'd like to get something going late in the fall or the first of the year," Walsten explained. He added that he soon will meet with Bhagwaker to discuss further improvements including installing a new screen that can be raised and lowered.

"As vice chairman of the Community Development Committee I think this can help revitalize downtown," said Walsten.

Meanwhile, Walsten said plans to show "The Sound of Music" will proceed for next Friday and Saturday night, June 26 and 27 at the theater. Ticket prices are $5 per person. Showtimes are 7 p.m. on Fridays and 5 and 7 p.m. Saturdays. The Des Plaines Theater is located at Miner and Lee streets.

It's great to see that people are coming around to seeing the potential of this great asset. However it is also important that the work be done in a thorough and historically sensitive way. There should be some oversight to ensure this. Support these efforts!