Burr Ridge Nonprofit Plans to Rebuild Willowbrook Ballroom

WILLOW SPRINGS, IL - A Burr Ridge nonprofit has come forward and started to raise funds to rebuild the historic Willowbrook Ballroom. The Dance of Life Foundation has purchased the cherished ballroom located in Willow Springs.

The Willowbrook Ballroom was built in 1921, and has hosted many popular bands throughout the years. Perhaps most famously, the Willowbrook Ballroom also plays a part in the urban legend of Resurrection Mary, and her ghost is said to appear at the ballroom at times. The ballroom was decimated by a fire in October 2016, but continues to be beloved by residents in the surrounding community.

The Dance of Life Foundation plans to restore the ballroom into the Willowbrook Ballroom Arts, Educational, and Cultural Community Center, according to their website. The Foundation is planning a 50,000 square foot civic facility, and a 28,000 square foot performing arts theater.

According to the foundation's website, there is great community support and vision for this project, and it is supported by a growing group of advocates, artists, business leaders, and community members. The Foundation also estimates that the Willowbrook Ballroom Arts, Educational, and Cultural Community Center will create an estimated 500 jobs in the metro Chicagoland area as well as revitalize tourism in areas still struggling due to the economic downturn.

The plans on the foundation's website show that the theater facility will include a 750 seat stage/theater for performing arts, dance and music productions, workshops, cultural programming and more.

According to the website, the plans for the 50,000 square foot community center will include a grand ballroom where the large ballroom floor will be rebuilt, meeting/community rooms, dance and music studios, a senior center and more.

The estimated cost of the project is $23 million. For more information visit https://www.danceoflifefoundat...

Photos provided by Tri-State Fire District.