The Majestic Theatre

Renovation will Help

Revitalize Downtown Kankakee

Client: Meyer Development, Kankakee, IL

Project: Master Plan and First Phase Renovation of the Historic Majestic Theatre

Design Features

• Renovate the historic Majestic Theater into a multipurpose space serving downtown Kankake
• Plan the future expansion to include a full stage, balconies, acoustical upgrades, dressing rooms, and full theater amenities
• A new marquee design that recalls the grand marquee of the original historic theate
• Recall the art deco design intent of the original building, with a limited budget

Challenges

• Most historic amenities were removed in the 1970's
• Limited existing exit capacity
• The historic Theater lobby had been removed, so the project design required a new entry sequence into the theater
• The budget available was a fraction of the budget needed for a full renovation

Key Achievements

• Provide flexible “theater” space that can accommodate a variety of events, such as weddings, fashion shows, and community meetings
• Contribute to the revitalization of downtown Kankakee