The Portage Theater was constructed in 1920 by J.M. and Edward Browarsky, located near Portage Park's "Six Corners".   The Ascher Brothers leased and operated the building as a movie theater, but their theater operations ended in 1929.   The theater remained open for decades but eventually closed in 2001.   Since the original closure, the building has been reopened numerous times but last operated in 2018.  The current owner wishes to renovate the building and reopen it to the public.  The facade is clad in elaborate terra cotta cladding and has Art Moderne and Neoclassical interiors.  The building has been dedicated as a landmark and is currently listed by Landmarks Illinois as one of ten 2024 most endangered historic places in Illinois. 

 

The owner is currently looking for funds to rehabilitate the building.  

 

DetaiLAB was engaged to provide a condition assessment of the historic facade facing Milwaukee Ave.