The Vic Theatre

Vic Theatre, designed by architect John E.O. Pridmore, opened in 1912 as the Victoria Theatre. It took three years to build the luxurious five-story vaudeville house.  Most of the ornate wall sculptures, and the Italian-marble lobby floor and staircases are original. The acoustics are near perfect, and the balcony has wonderful sight-lines.

The Vic Theatre is located in the central Lakeview area, an eclectic neighborhood that is home to great restaurants, theater, and shopping. The Vic hosts dozens of live music concerts each month, and can easily accomodate 1400, standing room, with seating for 1000.

When there's no live music, hit the Brew & View. Singular to all of northern Illinois, the Brew & View is the Vic's alter ego, transforming the theater from music to movies. Three bars are open throughout the films, creating a cinematic experience miles away from the strip-mall multiplex. Movies at Brew & View tend to be second- and third-runs, as well as cult and underground favorites. This may not be the right place if you are looking to quietly concentrate on a movie, but if you want to see an old or new favorite for five bucks while drinking $1.50 beers, this is paradise.