Kenosha, WI Rhode Theater ~ original proscenium
The Rhode Theater was constructed in 1927 and was designed by Rapp and Rapp in what I'd call a Moorish Revival style. It was renamed the Lake Theater in 1963, and twinned in 1976. The theater closed in 1984 and reopened in 1988 by the Lakeside Players. It was renamed the Rhode Theater in 1989.
It looks like the front entrance and sign date back to the 1960s. The theater is still twinned with the original balcony unusable. The Lakeside Players have done a marvelous job in maintaining the theater, but unfortunately since it's not eligible for the National Register they cannot partake of various historic preservation grants available.
I had originally only intended to take some photos of the facade and marquee, but while taking those photos I was invited inside for a tour and was amazed at the lobby and other details including the doors into each theater. I was even shown how many of the interior theater details were chiseled off in the twinning process. Anything can be restored of course if there is enough money, but as it stands now, I'm glad the Lakeside Players are in charge. They seem to really love this theater.
Kenosha, WI Rhode Theater ~ original proscenium
The Rhode Theater was constructed in 1927 and was designed by Rapp and Rapp in what I'd call a Moorish Revival style. It was renamed the Lake Theater in 1963, and twinned in 1976. The theater closed in 1984 and reopened in 1988 by the Lakeside Players. It was renamed the Rhode Theater in 1989.
It looks like the front entrance and sign date back to the 1960s. The theater is still twinned with the original balcony unusable. The Lakeside Players have done a marvelous job in maintaining the theater, but unfortunately since it's not eligible for the National Register they cannot partake of various historic preservation grants available.
I had originally only intended to take some photos of the facade and marquee, but while taking those photos I was invited inside for a tour and was amazed at the lobby and other details including the doors into each theater. I was even shown how many of the interior theater details were chiseled off in the twinning process. Anything can be restored of course if there is enough money, but as it stands now, I'm glad the Lakeside Players are in charge. They seem to really love this theater.