The Classic Cinemas La Grange Theatre, based in Illinois, has received the green light for a substantial expansion. The La Grange Village Board unanimously approved special use and design review permits, and a site plan for the cinema's proposed expansion at 80 S. La Grange Rd.
Classic Cinemas currently manages 16 movie theaters, most are located in the Chicago area, with few in Wisconsin and Illinois. Just two years ago, the Village Board unanimously forgave $1 million in village loans to the theater.
Part of the expansion plan will involve demolishing the areas at 70-76 S. La Grange Road, which is currently being occupied by the Hot Dog and Burger Company and Prime Cuts. Three new auditoriums would be added to the theater. The auditoriums, to have 73, 73, and 39 seats respectively, will provide an additional 185 seats to the theater. The overall theater capacity will increase from the present 318 to 503.
Prior to the 2022 renovation, the theater was able to seat 986 patrons. However, following an industry trend, Classic Cinemas installed heated, comfortable reclining seats that took up more space. Despite a decrease in seat capacity, patrons have generally favorably received these changes.
In an interview with Chicago Tribune, Chris Johnson, the owner and operator of the theater, said his goal was to have approximately 180,000 visitors per year. From September 25, 2022, to September 24, 2023, there were about 180,800 visitors to the theater. This showed the strong local support for the theater and its continued attractiveness to patrons.
In spite of competition from digital streaming platforms, the La Grange Theatre preserves its appeal. The board's approval of the theater expansion illustrates this local support and the resilience of brick-and-mortar cinemas. This expansion which has a, tentative opening date of Summer 2024, signals a positive outlook for the theater industry.
Chris Johnson informed the Chicago Tribune of the theater's future plans. Bids and the procurement of materials are to be cleared, but once done, the theater will start its next chapter, an embodiment of the persistent demand for communal cinema experiences.
