Ready to be transported to a world of music and drama? This is the Rosemont Theatre. It stands as a beacon of entertainment in Rosemont Illinois a suburb of Chicago. The Rosemont Theatre opened its doors in 1995. It quickly became a favorite venue for locals and visitors alike.
The Rosemont Theatre can seat 4400 people. Its large capacity allows it to host a wide variety of events. These events include concerts Broadway shows and special performances. The Rosemont Theatre is conveniently located near O’Hare International Airport. It is also close to the Allstate Arena and the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.
Originally, the Rosemont Theatre was simply named Rosemont Theatre. In 2012, Akoo International bought the naming rights. The venue became known as the Akoo Theatre at Rosemont. Akoo International specialized in interactive media. The company planned to create visual content for artists performing at the theater. However, Akoo International went out of business in January 2013. The venue then returned to its original name Rosemont Theatre in March 2013.
The late Mayor Donald R. Stephens built the Rosemont Theatre. He wanted to draw business away from Chicago. The theater cost 35 million dollars to build. It featured posh lobbies and ample parking. Some people suspected Stephens wanted to build a casino. He aggressively booked live entertainment. He hired Tim Orchard to book shows.
Barry Manilow loved the Rosemont Theatre. He said he could go straight from the plane to the stage. David Copperfield also performed there. The Rosemont Theatre even hosted tapings of The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. The show used a fake Chicago skyline as a backdrop.
Tim Orchard made the Rosemont Theatre successful. He booked Riverdance an unknown Irish show. It grossed 3.8 million dollars. Orchard said suburban residents preferred the convenience of the Rosemont Theatre. They could eat dinner at home drive a short distance and park safely. They could see the show and be in bed before 11 p.m.
In 2008, Rosemont Mayor Bradley Stephens offered the Rosemont Theatre to Illinois. He wanted the state to use it as a casino. But the state’s casino license went to Des Plaines.
There were plans to demolish the Rosemont Theatre. The village wanted to expand the Fashion Outlets mall. But the expansion was called off in 2020. The Rosemont Theatre was not demolished.
Many famous artists have performed at the Rosemont Theatre. Scorpions concluded their US tour there in 2010. Michael Schenker and Carmine Appice made surprise appearances. Jeopardy held its annual College Championship there in 1999. Barney’s Musical Castle was taped at the Rosemont Theatre in 2001. The WWE Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place there in 2006. Numerous K-pop artists have graced its stage.
The Rosemont Theatre has a rich history. It has faced challenges and changes. Yet, it remains a vital part of the Chicago entertainment scene. As you leave the Rosemont Theatre remember the many stars who have shone here. Remember the audiences who have been captivated. The Rosemont Theatre is more than just a building. It is a place where memories are made and dreams come alive.