The James M. Nederlander Theatre, formerly the Oriental Theatre, opened on May 8, 1926. It was one of the first motion picture palaces whose décor was inspired by the Far East. At the time, the theatre presented popular first-run motion pictures as well as elaborate stage shows.
The beautiful 2,250 seat venue was added to the Federal National Registry of Historic Places in 1978. However, the building continued to crumble and was closed to the public in 1981. In 1996, Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley announced the theatre would be restored to its original grandeur for live stage musicals.
Since it’s re-opening, the James M. Nederlander Theatre has showcased a list of enormous hits, including Blast, Wicked, Billy Elliot, Big Fish, Newsies, and more!
Where: 24 W. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60601