Things to Do in Champaign, Illinois: A Ten Week Series, Week 9- The Virginia Theatre
For those of you who are already familiar with the Viriginia Theatre in downtown Champaign, you probably know that the theatre is currently closed for renovation (*insert sad face). But I simply couldn't bring myself to write a ten-week series on things to do in Champaign and NOT include the Virginia Theatre!
So rest assured that it will open again around November this year (that's only a few months away!). Meanwhile, I'm going to tell you why you simply must visit The Virginia Theatre at some point while living here in Champaign-Urbana!
First a little history...
The Virginia Theatre first opened in December 1921 with a live stage performance. Commissioned to be built by a local prominent contractor, the Virginia Theatre was named after his daughter. While the theatre has gone through a number of changes in ownership in the 85+ years of its existence, it now belongs to the Champaign Park District, and the group "Friends of the Virginia Theatre" was formed to raise funds for its most recent renovations. (This information was gathered from the Virginia Theatre website.)
Today the Virginia Theatre proudly shows old classics and newer films, as well as live performances on the magnificent stage. In addition, the Virginia Theatre is home to Ebertfest, an annual film festival hosted by Roger Ebert himself, who was born and grew up in Urbana.
The building, constructed in Renaissance style, is simply beautiful and takes you right back in time... intricate plaster work, gorgeous chandeliers, columns, busts, and the best part: a big, red curtain opening up to center stage. It's a truly unique structure, and the experience you'll have visiting The Virginia Theatre is destined to be unique, as well. So make note of a November re-opening and be sure to plan your visit soon thereafter!
Here's my complete list of Things to Do in Champaign. Check back next week for number 10!
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