The spotlight will be on “A Century of Cinema” as Classic Cinemas celebrates the 100th anniversary of The La Grange Theatre in February—stretching the fun out through December. Later this year, the curtain is set to rise on the completion of a major expansion.
A Storied Past
Opening its doors in 1925, The La Grange Theatre originally served as both a vaudeville stage and a movie theater. To commemorate its centennial, Classic Cinemas is unveiling a special documentary titled A Century of Cinema, created by filmmaker and Classic Cinemas marketing director Jim Toth.
“In its 100-year history, The La Grange Theatre has been more than just a place to see a movie—it’s been a cornerstone of the community,” Johnson said. “This anniversary is a celebration of the theater’s legacy and the people who have supported it for generations.”
Bringing History to Life
To capture the theater’s legacy, Toth sought insights from longtime community members, including village trustee Beth Kenney-Augustine and retired Lyons Township High School teacher and coach Terry Sullivan. Through their stories, the documentary paints a vivid picture of The La Grange Theatre’s past, from its early days to its continued role as a local treasure.
La Grange Village President Mark Kuchler also shares his perspective on the theater’s historical significance. Meanwhile, John Rot, owner of the theater building and Hortons Home Lighting & Ace Hardware, is featured for his efforts in preserving and revitalizing the historic venue.
A Bright Future
While celebrating the past, Classic Cinemas is also investing in the future. Since taking over operations in 2022, the company has embarked on an extensive renovation. The latest phase, which began in November 2024, will introduce three new auditoriums—including two XQ premium presentation screens—nearly doubling the theater’s seating capacity.
“This is one of our biggest-selling theaters, even though it’s a smaller venue,” Toth said. “We have near-capacity attendance every day the theater is open.”
With the addition of these state-of-the-art auditoriums, the theater will expand from six to nine screens, enhancing the moviegoing experience for generations to come.
“We’re thrilled to bring the community together to celebrate 100 years of movie magic at The La Grange Theatre,” Johnson said. “And even more excited for what’s ahead, with our expanded auditorium offerings coming this summer.”
A Yearlong Celebration of Cinema
As part of the centennial celebration, The La Grange Theatre will present a special film series, showcasing iconic movies from each decade since its opening. Regular screenings will take place at 1 and 7 p.m. on the following Wednesdays:
- 1930s: The Wizard of Oz – March 19
- 1940s: Citizen Kane – April 16
- 1950s: Vertigo – May 21
- 1960s: 2001: A Space Odyssey – June 18
- 1970s: Grease – July 16
- 1980s: Raiders of the Lost Ark – August 20
- 1990s: Clueless – September 17
- 2000s: The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring – October 15
- 2000s: The Two Towers – October 22
- 2000s: The Return of the King – October 29
- 2010s: Wonder Woman – November 19
- 2020s: Top Gun: Maverick – December 17
From its origins as a vaudeville stage to its current role as a beloved movie destination, The La Grange Theatre has remained a cultural landmark in the community. With a century of memories behind it and an exciting future ahead, this milestone anniversary is one that movie lovers won’t want to miss.