Historic Skokie Theatre to Reopen as The Skokie, Creating a New Home for Arts, Entertainment, and Community

One of the North Shore’s most beloved cultural landmarks is entering a new chapter. The historic Skokie Theatre, built in 1912 and operating continuously as a theater for more than a century, will honor its legacy while introducing a refreshed identity as simply, The Skokie.

Located at 7924 N. Lincoln Avenue in downtown Skokie, Illinois, the 150-seat venue is being acquired from longtime owner Wendy Kaplan, who has operated the theater as MadKap Productions since 2014. Under new ownership, The Skokie will reopen in late 2026 as an intimate destination for performances, creativity, and connection, featuring a diverse lineup of programming including stand-up comedy, live music, jazz nights, storytelling events, improv, ceramics and art classes, phone-free listening nights, one-act theater productions, curated film screenings, and special community gatherings.

The Skokie is being brought back to life by two families with a shared passion for the arts and a belief in the importance of gathering spaces: José Pablo Cantillo & Kristi Cantillo, and Chris Matsakis & Monica Matsakis.

José Pablo Cantillo has spent more than two decades as an actor, producer, and writer, with credits including The Walking Dead, Sons of Anarchy, Mayor of Kingstown, Elysium, and Chappie. Kristi Cantillo is an artist and educator who has developed and curated arts programs throughout Los Angeles. Chris Matsakis is a Chicago-area entrepreneur and performer with a background in stand-up comedy, while Monica Matsakis is a storyteller, actor, and educator whose work has been featured at The Moth, Truth Be Told, and Story Lab Chicago.

The partnership began nearly 30 years ago when José and Chris met as freshmen in Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business Honors Program. What started as a college friendship evolved into a shared vision between two families who believe the arts have the power to bring people together, inspire creativity, and strengthen communities.

Restoration plans will preserve the theater’s original character, including its iconic marquee, while introducing thoughtful upgrades to the lobby, bar, seating, and sound system. The design will draw inspiration from classic Hollywood theaters and intimate speakeasy-style venues.

The restoration recently received a significant boost through a $50,000 grant from the Village of Skokie's Storefront Enhancement Program, reinforcing the Village's commitment to preserving one of its most recognizable landmarks. Structured as a 60 percent / 40 percent matching grant, the Village will reimburse 60 percent of eligible restoration costs, up to $50,000, with the ownership team funding the remaining 40 percent. The grant supports improvements that will help return The Skokie to active community use while preserving its historic character.

The Village's investment complements, but does not replace, the theater's ongoing Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign. Community contributions remain essential to completing the restoration, expanding programming, upgrading production and sound capabilities, and creating an inviting venue that reflects the creativity and diversity of Skokie. Every contribution now goes even further by building upon the Village's investment and helping bring this historic theater back to life.

“This isn’t just about reopening a theater. It’s about creating a place where people can connect, celebrate creativity, and experience something special close to home,” said Chris Matsakis. “We want The Skokie to feel inspiring, approachable, and alive the moment people walk through the doors.”

Monica Matsakis added, “There is so much talent and creativity in this area, and we want The Skokie to be a home for both emerging and established artists. We’re creating a place where audiences can laugh, discover new voices, and make lasting memories together.”

José Pablo Cantillo will help shape the venue’s artistic direction, drawing on his entertainment industry experience and relationships to bring unique programming and nationally recognized performers to Skokie.

“Our goal is to make The Skokie a true cultural destination,” said Cantillo. “We want artists to be excited to perform here and audiences to know they can expect something memorable, intimate, and authentic.”

Beyond performances, The Skokie will offer lectures featuring local experts, ceramics and art classes led by Kristi Cantillo, and an upstairs private screening room and members-only lounge for artists and creators. Future plans also include weekend events such as weddings, dance parties, recitals, and quinceañeras.

The Skokie has launched an Indiegogo campaign, inviting supporters to play a direct role in restoring the historic venue and helping build its next chapter. Funds raised will support renovations, upgraded production and sound capabilities, seating enhancements, expanded programming, and the long-term preservation of the theater.

Unlike large corporate-backed entertainment spaces, The Skokie is being built with a community-first approach rooted in local support, accessibility, and a shared passion for the arts. Campaign supporters become founding members, with rewards including opening night tickets, recognition opportunities, classes, special experiences, and a permanent place in the theater’s history.

“We truly want people to feel a sense of ownership in this space,” said Chris Matsakis. “This theater has meant so much to so many people over the years, and we believe its future should be built together.”

For more information about programming, upcoming events, and grand opening announcements, visit www.TheSkokie.com. Artists interested in performing at The Skokie can contact the team at booking@theskokie.com or info@theskokie.com. To support the theater’s restoration and reopening, visit the Indiegogo campaign at https://www.indiegogo.com/en/projects/the-skokie/venue