Exploring the Oak Park Theater Scene

Located just west of the downtown Chicago theater district, the historic village of Oak Park has an exciting diverse performing arts scene. With a focus on local talent, historic preservation, and intimate settings, Oak Park offers a warm, accessible alternative to Chicago’s offerings. 

Venues include the Oak Park Festival Theatre, known for its outdoor Shakespeare productions in the scenic Austin Gardens, and the Madison Street Theatre, which hosts a variety of plays, musicals, and community events. Oak Park also has a rich cinema culture, with historic venues like the Lake Theatre providing classic film nights and special screenings that cater to film enthusiasts. Because of Oak Park’s rich community engagement, you’ll often find post-show discussions, director Q&As, and other interactive events. All venues are conveniently located near the Green Line or Metra. 

Oak Park is a must-visit destination for any performing arts enthusiast, with many nearby restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions for pre- and post-show activities.

Historic Cinemas in Oak Park

Lake Theatre

The Lake Theatre, a cherished landmark on Lake Street in downtown Oak Park, opened its doors in 1936 and quickly became a cornerstone of the community. Designed by the renowned Thomas W. Lamb, the theater is an outstanding example of Art Deco architecture. Originally a single-screen cinema, the Lake Theatre embodied the grandeur of the era's movie palaces, offering locals a sophisticated venue to enjoy the latest films. The theater's striking marquee and elegant interior have stood the test of time, preserving the charm and allure that made it an enduring symbol of Oak Park’s cultural heritage.

Today, the Lake Theatre in Oak Park stands out as a perfect blend of classic charm and modern convenience. Moviegoers can marvel at the original artifacts from the Art Deco period while kicking their feet up in state-of-the-art heated recliners. The current Lake Street Theatre has seven screens offering a diverse selection of films, from the latest blockbusters to indie gems, ensuring there is something for everyone. 

And since no movie outing is complete without snacks, we’d be remiss not to mention the large concession that offers free refills on freshly popped popcorn, sodas, and ICEEs. They also serve beer, wine, and canned cocktails. 

Lake Theatre regularly offers special events, such as midnight showings, themed movie nights, and live performances that enhance the traditional film-going experience. Their participation in film festivals, like the Chicago International Film Festival, brings a diverse array of films to the Oak Park audience.

Click here to learn more. 

Other Cinematic Experiences

The Park District of Oak Park, in collaboration with the Silent Film Society, is bringing a unique cinematic experience to the community with monthly silent movie showings at Pleasant Home. These events feature live, period-authentic music to accompany the films, transporting audiences back to the golden age of silent cinema. 

Here are the movies for the rest of 2024 and early 2025:

September 20th: The Iron Mask

October 31st: The Lodger: A Story of the London Fog

December 20th: Peter Pan

Thursday, Feb 13th:  Why Be Good?

The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association, a nonprofit focused on cultural and educational opportunities, often hosts film screenings and cultural events, including classic films and themed movie nights. This historic venue adds a touch of elegance to the viewing experience. Fall, winter and spring the Nineteenth Century Charitable Association has regular programming Mondays at 1:15 p.m., rotating through the humanities: art, literature, music, science and social science. 

Click here to learn more. 

The Oak Park Public Library also contributes to the local cinematic scene by hosting film screenings that feature documentaries, independent films, or movies tied to cultural or social themes. These screenings often include discussions or Q&A sessions to offer insight into the film's content and the creative process, fostering a more engaged and informed audience.

Click here to learn more. 

Movies in the Park: During the summer months, the Park District of Oak Park offers outdoor movie screenings in local parks, such as Scoville Park or Austin Gardens. Typically featuring a mix of family-friendly films and classic movies, these events make for a perfect night out with family and friends of all ages. Be sure to bring a blanket and your favorite picnic items! 

Click here to learn more. 

Specialty Screenings

The Lake Theatre hosts classic film nights where moviegoers can enjoy timeless films on the big screen. These film nights often attract fans of vintage cinema who appreciate the opportunity to see iconic movies in a historic setting, surrounded by the theater’s Art Deco ambiance.

Live Theater In Oak Park

Madison Street Theater | Oak Park

Madison Street Theater in Oak Park, formerly home to the Village Players Theatre, is a key landmark in the local performing arts scene. The Village Players Theatre, established in the 1950s, was instrumental in bringing diverse theatrical productions to the community, from contemporary plays to classic dramas. Over the decades, it became beloved for its intimate performances and commitment to high-quality theater.

Today Madison Street Theater continues this legacy by hosting performances that cater to all tastes, ranging from modern plays to timeless classics. The theater also plays a vital role in community engagement, offering workshops, classes, and youth programs that nurture local talent and community connection. Its dedication to performance and communal engagement makes Madison Street Theater a mainstay of cultural life in Oak Park​.

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Oak Park Festival Theatre

Oak Park Festival Theatre is the Midwest’s oldest, professional, outdoor, classical theater. Oak Park Festival Theatre was founded in 1975 when actor and Oak Park resident Marion Karczmar “dreamed up” a production of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream to be performed on a flatbed truck.

Today, the theater’s mission is to create space for dialogue, understanding, and curiosity. Each summer the festival constructs a stage in the idyllic venue of Austin Gardens. Pack up a picnic and a bottle of wine and enjoy live outdoor theater under the stars. 

Their Family Days include pre-show activities and an early performance at 6 pm! 

Click here to learn more. 

School and Community Theaters in the Oak Park Area 

Concordia University | River Forest

Concordia University’s Theatre Department is gearing up for an exciting season with two standout productions. On October 3rd, catch Some Like It Hot, a musical adaptation filled with laughter and lively performances. Then, from November 1st to 3rd, experience the classic comedy You Can’t Take It With You, which most recently featured James Earl Jones in its Broadway revival. Both shows promise to offer unforgettable performances, so mark your calendars!

Click here to learn more. 

Dominican University | River Forest

Join Dominican University as it celebrates the 25th anniversary of its Performing Arts Center with an exciting lineup of performances! The season kicks off on October 25th with Sones de Mexico, a vibrant Day of the Dead celebration. In February, audiences can experience the breathtaking Afrique en Cirque by Cirque Kalabante on the 1st, followed by The Black Legacy Project on February 20th, a powerful musical tribute to Black history and racial solidarity. March 22nd brings a family-friendly show with Bill Blagg’s interactive magic, and the season concludes on April 16th with Our Planet - Live: Frozen Worlds, an immersive exploration of Earth’s frozen wilderness. This dynamic season promises something for everyone, including a performance of SpongeBob the Musical, adding a splash of Broadway fun to the mix!

Click here to learn more. 

Oak Park River Forest High School | Oak Park

Oak Park River Forest High School (OPRF) has a renowned performing arts program and offers a variety of productions and community events throughout the year. The school is known for its high-caliber productions that often rival professional theaters. The students and faculty put tremendous effort into each performance, ensuring audiences enjoy well-acted, visually stunning, and engaging shows.

Click here to learn more. 

Ovation Academy for the Performing Arts | Oak Park

With a mission to provide children access to high-quality arts education, Ovation Academy for the Performing Arts offers classes in group vocal training, acting tools, musical theater, audition techniques, tap, jazz, hip hop, improv, and various audition and training workshops. Each year, Ovation Academy produces up to eight full-scale musical productions with students ages 6-18—showcases are open to the public! Check their website for schedules and ticketing. 

Click here to learn more. 

Dinner and a Show: Where to Eat Before or After

Dive into Oak Park's thriving theater scene and make the most of your visit by pairing a performance with a meal at one of the village’s delicious dining establishments. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or a casual bite, Oak Park’s culinary scene perfectly complements its other offerings.

Date Night Out

For a cozy date night out, here are some local favorites. 

For those planning a night with dinner and a show, Oak Park’s food scene will not disappoint. Complete your movie experience with a flavorful meal at Amerikas restaurant. Located down the street from Lake Theatre, Amerikas embraces all the flavors of America’s melting pot. Its atmosphere will ensure deep conversation and intimacy. 

Or, after a romantic movie or a classic Shakespeare performance, enjoy a classic Italian meal at Il Vicolo Trattoria. Known for its authentic dishes and extensive wine list, Il Vicolo is the perfect complement to any date night. 

Alternatively, pair a lively comedy show with the bold flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Maya Del Sol, where you can continue the fun with creative cocktails and shareable tapas. 

Finally, for contemporary American fare, Hemmingway’s Bistro’s menu offers French-inspired classics and a cozy ambiance, perfect for unwinding after a film. 

Casual Dining

Oak Park provides plenty of great options for grabbing a quick bite before a show. If you're in the mood for something lighter, Munch is a mostly vegan and vegetarian cafe-style restaurant located in the heart of downtown Oak Park. 

For those heading to the theater with kids in tow, Oak Park has several family-friendly spots that make dining out easy and enjoyable. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, known for its deep-dish pizza that the whole family can share, is just steps from the Lake Theatre and Austin Gardens. With a casual vibe and a menu that caters to all ages, it’s an ideal spot to fuel up before heading to the theater.

Madison Theatre neighbors the downtown of Forest Park which boasts multiple restaurants including classic pub fare at FatDuck or authentic Mexican at Mexican Republic Kitchen.

Coffee and Dessert

After enjoying a show at Lake Theatre, unwind and chat with a post-show coffee or dessert. 

Sugar Fixé Pâtisserie is an excellent spot for a cozy coffee experience paired with delightful French-inspired pastries. Their elegant desserts and rich espresso drinks create a refined atmosphere, ideal for reflecting on the night’s entertainment. 

Another great option is The Perfect Cup, a welcoming café known for its extensive coffee menu and comfortable seating, making it a great place to linger over a cup of coffee and discuss your favorite scenes.

For those who prefer a classic treat, Brown Cow Ice Cream Parlor is just a short drive away, serving up creamy, handcrafted ice cream in traditional and seasonal flavors. Ending the evening with a scoop of ice cream or a decadent cupcake is the perfect way to cap off your night at the theater.

Meet Us at the Theater

Oak Park's theater scene offers a delightful mix of historic charm and contemporary productions. From the iconic Lake Theatre, which marries Art Deco elegance with modern amenities, to the intimate Madison Street Theater, known for its diverse productions and community engagement, Oak Park has something for everyone. 

Check out upcoming showtimes and plan your dinner reservations to ensure a fun, full night out in Oak Park. Explore the theaters and restaurants to create a memorable experience in this culturally rich community.