Antioch Theatre runs Kickstarter to save business

WLS logo
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Antioch Theatre
(Antioch Theatre Facebook)
Antioch Theatre Facebook

ANTIOCH, Ill. (WLS) -- A 95-year-old theater in downtown Antioch is trying to raise money to keep its current closure from remaining permanent.



Originally called the Majestic Theatre, the Antioch theater first opened in 1919 as a live performance house. In 1924, it was converted to a single-screen movie theater and renamed the Antioch Theatre. The theater survived and thrived for 90 years through Prohibition, The Great Depression, and World War II.



However, due to new technology and finances, the current owner said he was forced to close the doors May 16. The theater needs about $65,000 in order to get the necessary digital equipment for the rejuvenation plan and reopening, owner Tim Downey said.



The theater has turned to a Kickstarter project, hoping to get enough backers to raise the money and reopen. They have about $35,870 with 16 days to go.


Copyright © 2025 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.