Some interesting changes being made to the building and a good history piece here. https://onmilwaukee.com/articles/park-theater-biltrite-spelunking?fbclid=IwAR1weumuXkS4FR5mlvtW2h0TZuxaoeOmcBXNl2QD5vA45tKsF1Dxi_AJC8s
The theatre has been repurposed to a music shop called CD Source, buying and selling CDs, DVDs, and the like. The marquee has been retained. Website: https://cdsourcerockford.com/
In-depth article about the Telenews here. https://onmilwaukee.com/articles/telenews-theater?fbclid=IwAR1nMJJmNcc6pqpLLS4VlgtFMt5UVJGLhheHUdIaMrhrG637z6ln5mwnSZg
I uploaded an auditorium picture to the photos section. It’s called the Vaudeville Grand which could be this theater which was located on Grand Avenue. Two of the other photos show vaudeville being featured at the Orpheum so this might have been the same theater.
Google Streetview of June 2019 shows the theatre as pretty much still intact, with marquee, blade sign, poster boxes and foyer. Just like it’s asleep.
Google Streetview of August 2019 shows the building for sale and seemingly unopen.
Luis, there is an auditorium picture on the website. Also many pictures on their Facebook page. No historical shots, though.
Some interesting changes being made to the building and a good history piece here. https://onmilwaukee.com/articles/park-theater-biltrite-spelunking?fbclid=IwAR1weumuXkS4FR5mlvtW2h0TZuxaoeOmcBXNl2QD5vA45tKsF1Dxi_AJC8s
1953
It’s current use is as an interpretative nature center.
From its banquet hall days.
Current Google view shows a barber shop at that address.
The website has more information about the history of the building. http://rousscenter.org/
1954
The theatre has been repurposed to a music shop called CD Source, buying and selling CDs, DVDs, and the like. The marquee has been retained. Website: https://cdsourcerockford.com/
Even before required by the ADA. Very impressive.
1968
Added two early street scenes and a 1944 ad.
Functions should include performing arts. No movies scheduled on Facebook page.
Just added a 1940 street scene to Photos showing the Ideal and quite a crowd of people. Might be some kind of holiday.
In-depth article about the Telenews here. https://onmilwaukee.com/articles/telenews-theater?fbclid=IwAR1nMJJmNcc6pqpLLS4VlgtFMt5UVJGLhheHUdIaMrhrG637z6ln5mwnSZg
I uploaded an auditorium picture to the photos section. It’s called the Vaudeville Grand which could be this theater which was located on Grand Avenue. Two of the other photos show vaudeville being featured at the Orpheum so this might have been the same theater.
Website: https://m.facebook.com/thehistoricdevontheater/
Open again on a limited basis with first-run films.
1959 photo downloaded to photos.
Duplicate of picture uploaded in 2012.
Marcus will reopen this theatre on august 28 2020 with Covid19 restrictions in place.
Marcus will reopen this theatre on August 28 2020 with Covid19 restrictions in place.
This theatre is now open observing social distancing and mask requirements.