End of an Era: ShowPlace Icon Theatre Closure in Chicago

ShowPlace Icon Theater at Roosevelt Collection in Chicago's South Loop closed its doors after 15 years of operation, marking the end of an era for the neighborhood. The theater, known for its plush seating and VIP movie experiences, was one of the last remaining movie venues in the area. The closure comes as movie theaters and their parent companies continue to struggle due to the impact of the pandemic, with more viewers opting for in-home streaming services.

Last year, an incident involving gunfire inside the theater led to two individuals being charged, although no one was injured. Tragically, a security guard lost his life while trying to remove a teenager from the premises. Despite rumors circulating online, employees confirmed that Sunday was the theater's final day in business. ShowPlace Icon was the last of four theater complexes owned by Kerasotes ShowPlace Theatres, a Chicago-based company with a long history in the entertainment industry.

In addition to the closure of the Chicago location, three other ShowPlace Icon theaters in Minnesota and California are also shutting down. Kerasotes Theatres, which has been operating since 1909, recently sold a location in New Jersey to Regal Theaters. The company's remaining theaters are facing uncertain futures, with landlords seeking new operators to take over the spaces. This marks the end of an era for Kerasotes Theatres, a family-owned business that has been a staple in the entertainment industry for generations.

The closure of the Kerasotes theaters comes at a time when the exhibition industry is experiencing challenges and changes. Despite the closure of these theaters, the industry has seen an uptick in revenue as audiences return to cinemas following the easing of COVID restrictions. The legacy of Kerasotes Theatres, which once operated 95 theaters nationwide with 957 screens, will be remembered as a significant chapter in the history of cinema exhibition.

With the closure of the ShowPlace Icon Theater in Chicago and other Kerasotes locations, the landscape of the entertainment industry is evolving. As theaters adapt to changing consumer preferences and market conditions, the legacy of Kerasotes Theatres will be remembered for its contributions to the cinematic experience. Tony Kerasotes, a key figure in the company's history, confirmed the closures but did not provide further comment at this time.