History of The Auditorium: Chapter 11

1980-2000

The 1980s: Consolidation and Centennials
While the theatre had already celebrated a dramatic reopening two decades earlier, the 1980s focused on steady consolidation. Maintaining a historic building from 1889 was no small task, especially as Chicago’s entertainment scene grew more competitive. Touring Broadway shows, popular music concerts, and rising production costs challenged the venue to balance heritage with modernization.

Key milestones included:

• Interior Upgrades: A $13 million state grant funded major interior improvements.

• Cultural Recognition: Its status as a National Historic Landmark since 1975 underscored the importance of careful preservation.

• Media Spotlight: The filming of The Untouchables in 1987 brought the theatre to the silver screen.

• Centennial Celebration: In 1989, the theatre marked its 100th anniversary with a special season featuring Les Misérables, the Basel Ballet of Switzerland, and the Moiseyev Dance Company from the USSR.

By the end of the decade, the theatre had reinforced its foundations—through restoration, expanded programming, and community engagement—ensuring it was ready for bigger stages ahead.

The 1990s: Growth, Glitz, and Global Shows
The 1990s ushered in a period of expansion and high-profile performances. Located in Chicago’s bustling Loop theatre district, The Auditorium capitalized on its stunning architecture and legendary acoustics to host increasingly ambitious productions.

Highlights included:

• Broadway and Blockbusters: Hits like Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera brought the theatre into the national spotlight.

• Dance Excellence: In 1998, The Joffrey Ballet made the theatre its home, cementing a steady lineup of world-class dance performances.

• Modernization: While preserving its historic charm, the theatre upgraded lighting, rigging, and backstage spaces, with plans for a $14 million backstage update by 1999.

The decade demanded careful navigation of challenges: balancing heritage with modernization, standing out amidst growing downtown competition, and making strategic programming choices. By the turn of the millennium, the Auditorium Theatre had transformed from a beautifully preserved historic venue into a vibrant, fully modern performance space—ready to meet the demands of a new era.

A Living Landmark
Across these two decades, The Auditorium exemplified how historic preservation and contemporary performance can coexist. From quiet restorations and centennial celebrations to blockbuster musicals and world-class dance, the theatre’s commitment to excellence ensured it remained at the heart of Chicago’s cultural life.