The first phase of construction for Northlight Theatre’s new facility is underway at 1012 Church Street in Evanston. Work is still in the early foundation stage after ground was broken on March 25th. Northlight was joined by general contractor Bulley & Andrews and design architect Eckenhoff Saunders Architects for the ceremony.
Groundbreaking Day, March 25, 2025. Via Northlight Theatre.
Rendering of the new Northlight Theatre by Eckenhoff Saunders Architects
Rendering of the new Northlight Theatre by Eckenhoff Saunders Architects
Northlight Theatre began in 1974 in a decommissioned elementary school in Evanston and remained in town until moving to Skokie in 1997. The new construction means they’re moving back home.
Rendering of the new Northlight Theatre by Eckenhoff Saunders Architects
Rendering of the new Northlight Theatre by Eckenhoff Saunders Architects
Per ESA’s web page about the project, the new build entails constructing a 280-seat, thrust proscenium mainstage theatre, rehearsal hall, and backstage support spaces in Phase 1. Phase 2 will introduce a 125-seat “black box” studio theatre.
Photo by Daniel Schell
Photo by Daniel Schell
Photo by Daniel Schell
Northlight’s current facility is in the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie. Their new site was created by razing a pair of vacant low-rise buildings on Church Street. Quality Excavation, whose rig was on hand to pose for photos at the groundbreaking ceremony, handled demolition work.
Photo by Daniel Schell
Photo by Daniel Schell
Photo by Daniel Schell
Photo by Daniel Schell
Photo by Daniel Schell
Northlight Theatre anticipates opening their new home in Fall 2026, with the 2025-2026 season marking their swan song in Skokie.
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I remember eating at Carmen’s and then Thai Sookdee at that location back in the day. It’s interesting because this spot could probably support a dense 8-12 story mixed-use building (look at its neighbors). But for any old Curbed Chicago readers, remember back in 2017 Northlight tried to do just that in downtown Evanston (a 37-story proposal) with a spectacularly NIMBY-led crash and burn.