GlampingWithCats.com

Fischer Theatre, Danville IL

In 1880 at a cost of $24,000, the Grand Opera House (now called Fischer Theatre) was built and became a hopping place starting out with live shows.

In 1912, the building was closed and remodeled. Upon reopening in 1913, the name changed to Fischer Theatre. Later years, movie projector equipment was added along with a pipe organ to accompany silent movies.

No date but I think the picture was taken in the 1800s.
It’s amazing all the new building, lights, etc. I couldn’t find a date.
Again no date.
I couldn’t find the date in which the picture was taken.

The theatre changed hands a few times and in 1982 the theatre closed it’s doors. The building was turned over to city of Danville. Various associations took over the building to restore to its original beauty. The building was open for events but eventually closed to focus on restoration.

The Associations fund raised $60K to restore the marques. In 2018, Juleus Hegeler II toured the building and donated $6 Million to the renovation. Since then, the theatre has been up and running.

Links to learn more about the Fischer Theatre: Meet the Fischer – Fischer Theatre (atthefischer.com) and Fischer Theatre – Wikipedia

Now that I’ve gotten past the history. Here’s my fun experience..

People sponsor community events where movies are shown for free with popcorn. On Sunday August 4th, the movie “Home” was being shown. You know me… I dragged John with to the Theatre with the bribe of junk food.

The Theatre is located on Vermillion Street which is more like a Main street. It’s an older part of town with many small shops.

Selfie fun!
The first thing restored was the marquee which cost $60K to restore.
I love the old movies where you stand outside and pay at a booth. During our visit the booth wasn’t being used since the movie was free.
Can you see John and I in the reflection? It’s a new way to take a selfie 🙂
Beautiful Metal ceiling. The lady in the picture is a volunteer historian who also has helped with the restoration efforts.
Like current theatres… The snack bar with new popcorn machine!
Julius Hegeler II picture in the center donated 6 million dollars to the renovation. The light fixture in the display was an original fixture.
panoramic view of the theatre
John took a panoramic picture of the roof down. Not just the walls had an ornate decor, but the ceiling too. We were told that the plaster decor was intact in many of the places which helped with the restoration activities.
John sitting in the front row. Patiently waiting for me to stop taking pictures.
View from the back entrance door.
Can you find me in the picture?
Can you find me in the picture?

I highly recommend visiting the Fischer Theatre if you are in the area. It’s worth the stop.

glampingwithcats.com

, ,
,

One response to “Fischer Theatre, Danville IL”

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *