Genesee Theatre

The Genesee Theatre is a concert, performing arts and private events venue in Waukegan, Illinois, hosting over 80 diverse events every year.

The Genesee first opened on Christmas day in 1927 as a luxurious movie palace. And for over 60 years, The Genesee served Waukegan as such, hosting several world premieres (Man About Town (1939); 5-27-77 (2017); etc.) and showing classic films during their initial releases (Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1939); Star Wars (1977); etc.). The Genesee closed in 1989 due to competition from major multiplexes.

The theatre reopened in 2004 after a 5-year $23 million renovation. Many improvements were made to the theatre including new lighting and sound systems, a Broadway-sized stage and rigging system, reproduction of the original 1927 marquee, installation of chandeliers including those seen in the Grand Lobby and main Auditorium, and so much more!

The Genesee offers a variety of live performances year-round, including live music, comedy, ballet, movies and more. Major stars including James Brown, Peter Frampton, Morrisey, Kristen Chenoweth, Amy Grant, Stewart Copeland, Ringo Starr, John Mulaney, Jay Leno, Tim Allen, Alan Parsons, Rick Springfield and others have graced our stage!

More history of The Genesee can be found on our website.