From opening night on Dec. 9, 1889 to an anniversary night Dec. 9, 2014, the Auditorium Theatre has entertained audiences for decades. To celebrate its 125-year anniversary, the venue brought in the legendary Patti LuPone, who is the great-grandniece and namesake of Adelina Patti, the opera star who first brought down the house on opening night at this iconic theater.
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel kicked things off by proclaiming Dec. 9 as Auditorium Theatre Day and spoke of his history as a dancer.
Actor John Mahoney hosted the evening and narrated stories about the history of the building such as its use in 1942 as a World War II servicemen center. Afterward, in 1963, a $3 million renovation eventually reopened the space to host productions again.
In between segments with Mahoney, there were performances from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Brass and Lyric Opera of Chicago. The volunteer group Apollo Chorus of Chicago has been a part of the history of the venue since opening night in 1889. The latest incarnation of the chorus flowed down the aisles, supporting young soloist Matthew Uzarraga.
Dance was represented in the program with Vernard J. Gilmore from Alvin Ailey's American Dance Theater and a duo from The Joffrey Ballet.
Rock was in the house with an old-school band complete with lead singer Jim Peterik, who co-wrote the song "Eye of the Tiger." Musicians were a big part of the theater's legacy as acts from Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, Aretha Franklin and Bette Midler having all taken turns performing concerts there.
It was obvious the show centered around LuPone, as she returned several times, performing her classics from Broadway hits Gypsy and Evita. She closed things down with a curtain call that included the night's very talented cast.
Events for the upcoming season at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University can be found at www.AuditoriumTheatre.org .
Photos and text by Jerry Nunn