David Schwimmer Celebrates Reopening of Chicago’s Lookingglass Theatre
A New Beginning for the Beloved Theatre Company
After a nearly two-year closure, Chicago’s Lookingglass Theatre Company is thrilled to reopen its doors to the public. The theatre’s relaunch was marked by a ceremonial ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by Governor JB Pritzker and actor David Schwimmer.
A Challenging but Necessary Pause
The theatre paused operations 18 months ago due to declining ticket sales and donations following the COVID-19 pandemic. Schwimmer, a founding member of the company, acknowledged the challenging period, stating, “We believe storytelling is as vital to the health of a city as the water flowing through it.” The pause provided an opportunity for the theatre to re-envision its operations and expand its facilities.
Renovations and Upgrades
A $2 million grant from the state of Illinois enabled the theatre to undertake a significant renovation. The revamped lobby now features a cafe, video wall, accessible ramp, and restrooms, as well as space for community events. These upgrades aim to enhance the audience’s experience and provide a welcoming environment for visitors.
Pritzker’s Praise and Schwimmer’s Promise
Governor Pritzker praised the importance of institutions like Lookingglass, stating, “These institutions – theaters, art, galleries music venues, creative workshops – are the cultural lifeblood of communities large and small all across the state of Illinois.” Schwimmer, in turn, promised the audience, “We promise to provide stories that reflect the rich diversity of this city and its people. Stories that change, charge, and empower, and most of all celebrate our common humanity.”
First Production in Over a Year and a Half
Lookingglass is set to open its first production in more than a year and a half with the world premiere of the play Circus Quixote, which will debut on Thursday. This marks an exciting new chapter for the theatre company, as it looks to the future and continues to provide high-quality performances to the people of Chicago.
Conclusion
David Schwimmer’s return to the Lookingglass Theatre Company is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of cultural institutions in our communities. The theatre’s reopening is a significant milestone, and we look forward to seeing what the future holds for this beloved Chicago institution.
FAQs
Q: What is the Lookingglass Theatre Company?
A: Lookingglass Theatre Company is a renowned theatre company based in Chicago, Illinois, known for its innovative and critically acclaimed productions.
Q: Why did the theatre close?
A: The theatre closed due to declining ticket sales and donations following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Q: What renovations were made to the theatre?
A: The theatre underwent significant renovations, including the addition of a cafe, video wall, accessible ramp, and restrooms, as well as expanded community event spaces.
Q: What is the first production set to open at the theatre?
A: The first production set to open at the theatre is the world premiere of the play Circus Quixote, which debuts on Thursday.
