Story of the Theater

Since 1924 the Washington Theater has majestically kept watch over Quincy's Washington Square.

Built as a vaudeville theater, the Washington was host to many traveling troupes who delighted the citizens of Quincy with their performances. Moving graciously from the vaudeville days to the rage of the silver screen, the Washington welcomed audiences until the elaborate curtain was lowered for the final time on September 30, 1982.

Over the years, the Washington Theater has witnessed not only the deterioration that struck many central business districts nationwide in the 1980's and ‘90's, but also the upswing in revitalization efforts that have been a hallmark of Quincy's Main Street program. Unfortunately, the theater, the former pride of Quincy's booming “Great White Way” on Hampshire Street, has fallen into neglect. However, it now stands poised for a magnificent renovation.

The intricate terra cotta detailing and grand marquee of the once magnificent façade of the Washington is suffering due to lack of maintenance. The interior of the structure has weathered difficult times. Despite the mistreatment of the structure in the past, the theater remains structurally sound.

Even in disrepair, the Washington is charming its way into the hearts and minds of those who venture over her threshold. As you walk down the aisles it doesn't take a great imagination to hear the performances of the past and envision the productions of the future. The mere sight of the majestic balconies, intricate plaster detailing and welcoming stage recall the memories of a first date, a first kiss, and the promises and dreams shared by her patrons from the past.

The Washington Theater is an important landmark on the Quincy landscape. To lose this building which holds so many memories would be to lose part of the very soul and fabric of the Quincy community.

Thanks to the leadership of our City, State and Federal officials, an effort has begun to save the last of Quincy's grand theaters. $500,000 in ILLINOIS FIRST funds and $238,000 from the “Save America's Treasures” program will provide a tremendous boost to the fundraising efforts to begin the renovation. An Opinion of Probable Cost for Phase I of the reconstruction sets the figure at $1.1 million. Your help is needed to fully restore the theater to its former glory!

We invite you to join us in the grand renewal of the Washington Theater. As a contributor, you are instrumental to the success of our fundraising campaign! Please join the Friends of the Washington Theater in our efforts to open the doors and raise the curtains of the Washington Theater once again.