by Lisa Ashkenaz Croke
Special to InsideChanges are afoot for the Biograph and Three Penny theaters that offer theatergoers more choices, including entrées.
First run movies are back at the Biograph Theatre, if only temporarily. The Victory Gardens' Theatre announced last June that it hoped to purchase the landmark building at 2433 N. Lincoln Ave. and convert it to a live theatre.
While the company investigates operating and renovation costs, the Village Theatres discount cinema chain, which began occupying the space earlier this month, will continue to lease the legendary movie house on a month-to-month basis.
Victory Garden's Director of Institutional Development Robert Alpaugh said the arrangement was made so that
the property could generate income while Victory Gardens is in the evaluation process of acquiring the movie theatre. "It's all sort of a friendly relationship," said Alpaugh, who noted that the company hopes to make a final decision by the end of this year.
As for the fate of Victory Gardens current home at 2257 N. Lincoln Ave., Alpaugh said they hope to keep the three-stage theatre, allowing the company to expand its production capabilities.
An analysis of the Biograph structure reveals promising factors. "We are working with our facilities committee to produce specific criteria — notably an expanded mainstage with better backstage and technical capabilities, several smaller performance spaces, and an on-site rehearsal room," stated Victory Gardens Artistic Director Dennis Zacek. "Part of the allure of the Biograph is that the movie house is a shell that we could develop from scratch. We are excited to learn whether or not the Biograph can be adapted to meet our requirements."
Across the street, the Three Penny Cinema, which received its consumption-on-premise license May 14, has since been approved for a sidewalk cafe license, resulting in a new beer garden outside the discount alternative theatre at 2424 N. Lincoln Ave, serving wine, beer, pizza and pretzels.
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