Remember Her History!

The Virginia Theatre has been a part of our community's history and quality of life since December 28, 1921. Built in the tradition of great vaudeville-movie palaces of the 1920's and early 30's the Virginia is a beautiful theatre with a rich link to our past. This link crosses all boundaries reflecting the dept and diversity of our community, uniting us in the effort to save her.

The historic Virginia connects us in many ways. Whether you attended your first live theatre performance there; first performed on her massive stage in one of Miss Thelma Leah Rose's dance recitals; or stole your first kiss in her balcony while watching the first run of movies now considered classics; you are part of the Virginia's history and she is part of yours. The Virginia Theatre is more than a theatre. SHe is memories; she is our history and our future.

Recreate Her Dreams

With a vision of a “new” Virginia, many in the community see an opportunity to:

• Preserve and restore a historical landmark as an active symbol of our community’s spirit and diverse cultural life.
• Recognize the vitality of the performing arts, the value of historic preservation, and the quality of life that the Virginia adds to the community for generations to come.
• Compliment current programming at the Springer Cultural Center and add to the cultural experiences available in downtown Champaign.
• Provide a community performing arts and entertainment center accessible by all community members.

With a fresh outlook on the Virginia’s future come new and exciting benefits for our community.

A New Home for Community Groups.

The Virginia Theatre serves as a home and performance venue to several arts educational programs including the Champaign Park District’s Summer Youth Theatre Workshop, The News-Gazette Classic Film Series, and Roger Ebert’s Overlooked Film Festival. She also houses the resident Champaign-Urbana Theatre Company with future opportunities to house the Champaign-Urbana Symphony and Champaign-Urbana Ballet.

A Theatre Educational Curriculum.

Virginia staff are working on educational materials for school groups, and formalizing its theatre education program. Many opportunities exist for joint programming with the Springer Cultural Center, which is also located in downtown Champaign and has year-round cultural arts programs.

Hundreds of community volunteers gain hands-on experience while supporting the Virginia by being ushers, greeters, and concessionaires at her numerous events.

A Community Facility.

The Virginia’s renovation will help build a stronger sense of community for Champaign County by providing a needed civic use and performance space. The auditorium size of the 1525 seat theatre makes it suitable for conventions thus promoting tourism in East Central Illinois.

A Greater Variety of Performing Arts.

Presently the Virginia’s productions are limited by her archaic lighting, sound, and support services. Upgrades to these functions will enable more local and touring acts to perform on her stage, providing a wider selection of entertainment, which will be appealing to the entire community.

A Cornerstone for Cultural Performing Arts.

The restored Virginia can serve as the community’s cornerstone for the performing cultural arts in downtown Champaign.This adds to the exciting rebirth of dining and entertainment establishments already within walking distance. Virginia patrons will eat and shop before and after performances adding to the economic impact of downtown Champaign.

Give Generously to Our Shared History and Future

Only the foundation has been laid to bring the Virginia Theatre back as the community performing arts and entertainment center she was intended to be. This work has been done with the assistance of numerous community businesses and state grants. Much work remains to be done and can be done with your help. All your gifts are tax deductible. Checks may be made payable to the Virginia Theatre Restoration Fund c/o Champaign Park District. If you are interested in any of these giving opportunities please contact us.

• Cash Gifts and Pledges. If your contribution represents a memorial or honor gift, please include the information for appropriate acknowledgment.
• Securities and Insurance. Gifts of appreciated securities, paid life insurance policies, etc., are an excellent alternative to gifts made from current income.
• Planned Gifts. Options that preserve current income, yet leave a generous legacy include naming the Virginia Theatre in your will or as a beneficiary of an IRA.
• Recognition. We will provide recognition within the Virginia Theatre to families and businesses that support our mission through gifts of volunteer time and financial contributions.

Giving Benefits

* Based on availability. Some restrictions may apply.

Mailing Address:
Virginia Theatre
203 West Park Avenue
Champaign, IL 61820

Click Here to learn more about the restoration efforts at the Virginia.