Quincy Jones, Jennifer Hudson, and Chance the Rapper have joined forces to reopen the Ramova Theatre as co-owners, Variety reports. Before their reopening efforts, the historic movie palace in the Bridgeport neighborhood had its doors shut for four decades after opening in 1929. Now, the new and improved theater will feature a grill, beer garden, and brewery, the outlet details.
Jones sees Ramova Theatre’s reopening as an opportunity to bring different communities in Chicago together.
“I believe the cultural divides in our communities will always be bridged and uplifted by music and the arts,” the legendary producer said, according to the outlet. “With Ramova, I see a future where the rich cultural heritage of Chicago shines even brighter alongside the country’s most talented artists, which will inspire future generations to come and bring glory to America’s Second City.”
Chance the Rapper chimed in, “Chicago will always be part of who I am. I joined the team at Ramova to give back to the city that’s given me so much and to provide a stage to showcase the incredible talent Chicago has to offer. This is our moment to revitalize Chicago neighborhoods through one of the most beautiful ways possible — the arts.”
In addition to providing residents in the South Side of Chicago with a space to engage with the arts, Ramova is set to offer educational programs and workshops. What’s more, community initiatives will be shown avid support.
“My mother always taught us to take care of home first, so to support the rehabilitation of this extraordinary theater with such a rich history in Chicago means more to me than one could imagine,” Hudson said. “I am honored and thrilled to help build this new home for artists and highlight this special community in new ways that will reach far beyond the neighborhoods we call home.”
Ramova Theatre will reopen in the fall of 2023.
