Outdoor Theater at the South Shore Cultural Center: 2025 Most Endangered Historic Places in Illinois

Location:

7059 S. South Shore Dr., Chicago, Cook County

Year built:

1920

Architect:

Marshall & Fox

Current owner:

Chicago Park District

(Photo credit: Paul Morgan)

Historic Significance

The South Shore Country Club was founded in 1905 and constructed the Mediterranean Revival-style club buildings that now house the South Shore Cultural Center in 1916. The outdoor theater opened in 1920 and features a small stage and a terrazzo dance floor emblazoned with the country club’s logo. After facing a decline in membership, the country club closed in 1973 and was purchased by the Chicago Park District. In its years of ownership, the park district has completed various restoration projects. However, while the outdoor theater was stabilized, it was never fully restored. Today, the South Shore Cultural Center is a cultural and recreational hub for the South Shore community.

(Photo credit: Paul Morgan)

Current threat

The outdoor theater is facing deterioration after years of non-use and deferred maintenance. In its current state, the theater is not suitable for usage. Concrete areaways are broken, creating tripping hazards and posing potential liability risks to the Chicago Park District. Necessary lighting and sound systems are absent. The theater also does not meet current ADA accessibility standards. Although the Chicago Park District’s 2018 South Lakefront Framework Plan anticipates the restoration of the theater, the lack of funds has prevented the project from moving forward.

(Photo credit: Paul Morgan)

Preservation Solution 

The Chicago Park District requires proper funding to address necessary repairs to the outdoor theater so it can once again be used. Following restoration, the South Shore Cultural Center Advisory Council envisions the theater serving as a hub for youth programming. The space could also be a venue for theater productions, concerts and other cultural events or be adapted for additional uses such as fitness classes and outdoor lectures.

(Photo credit: Paul Morgan)

Take Action

Contact the Chicago Park District to express your support for the restoration of the theater.

(Photo credits: Paul Morgan)

Ana Marija Sokovic

South Shore Cultural Center Advisory Council Member

“[The theater’s] restoration would create an inviting space for concerts, theater performances and cultural programming that would energize the South Shore neighborhood. The lack of adequate public spaces for youth cultural activities makes this project especially vital, providing opportunities for young people to engage with the arts, connect with their community and experience the unique natural beauty of the lakeside venue.”

(Photo credit: Paul Morgan)