The Vic Theater Chicago is a historic music venue that has been entertaining audiences for over a century. Over the years, the theater has undergone several transformations, but it has remained a beloved and iconic venue in Chicago’s movie theater and music scene. Let’s explore everything about this amazing theater in this article.
All About The Vic Theater Chicago
In this article, let’s explore how music venues such as Vic Theater Chicago shape the cultural landscape and why they are vital to the continued evolution of our nation.
Overview
Vic Theater in Chicago is a historical music venue with a cultural significance beyond shoes and screenings. The Victoria Theater was founded in 1912 to provide an affordable alternative to the more expensive entertainment offered at Chicago’s renowned downtown theaters. According to one of the Chicago Tribune’s many raving reviews, the theater would grow to be one of Chicago’s most well-liked-priced houses. As it is now known, the Vic was initially constructed to house vaudeville and touring stage productions. It is currently one of the city’s more adaptive and robust structures while remaining a steady anchor in the neighborhood’s ever-changing terrain.
The History and Ownership
Architect John Eberson designed the Victoria Theatre in 1912. The opulent five-story Vaudeville home was constructed over three years. Robert E. Ricksen and Frank Gazzolo were the architects and owners of the theater. Ricksen and Gazzolo also ran the Crown and Imperial theaters. The construction, which cost $300,000, included almost every luxury one could expect in a theater.
Walt Klein bought The Vic in 1983, and he invested millions in its restoration. Opening with Second City’s 20th anniversary, recorded for HBO broadcast Lou Valpano, and Celebration Flipside marked the first programming for The Vic Theater Chicago. Within a year, Dave Frey took over programming duties and partnered with Holiday Star Theater. Walt eventually sold Jam Productions The Vic. Jam Productions is currently running the theater and takes care of its management, including events and other deeds.
Notable Performances at The Vic Theater Chicago
Here is a list of some of the notable performances at the Vic Theater Chicago:
- The Residents at the Vic on February 7, 1986.
- Trouble Funk Red Hot Chili Peppers Beastie Boys at the Vic on January 4, 1987.
- The Replacements at the Vic on April 11, 1986.
- In November 1988, Michael Butler produced the musical Hair at the Vic Theater to celebrate the show’s 20th anniversary. The production ran until February 1989
- Ween recorded Live In Chicago, a DVD and CD of their three-night run at the Vic in 2003.
- Wilco recorded Kicking Television: Live in Chicago at the Vic in May 2005.
- Gymboree taped their home video Parachute Express Live in Concert at the Vic in 1989.
- Bill Hicks recorded an HBO special, One Night Stand, at the Vic in 1991.
- Jim Gaffigan’s Beyond the Pale CD, DVD, and TV special were recorded at the Vic in 2006.
- Soundgarden played their first reunion show at the Vic on August 5, 2010.
- Hannibal Buress Recorded his second Comedy Central special at the Vic in January 2014.
- Papa Roach recorded Live & Murderous In Chicago, a DVD of their live performance at the Vic.
- Cage the Elephant recorded a live album, Cage the Elephant Live, at the Vic in Chicago in 2012.
Conclusion
We hope you liked reading our review of the Vic Theater Chicago. Such music venues offer more than just a place to listen to our favorite artists; they provide unique and cultural experiences for everyone. From fostering new artistic talent to bringing people together for memorable events, this theater holds a special place in the lives of people in the city of Chicago.
