The Robert R. McCormick Theater will be closed starting Tuesday, August 25 at 1:00 p.m., through Friday, September 11, due to equipment and system upgrades. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

WTTW Screenings

Enjoy an episode of WTTW Chicago Stories in our theater as part of your visit!

In August–September, we’re screening “House Music: A Cultural Revolution.”

Chicago’s secret is very much out in the open now: house music DJs headline clubs and festivals from London to Cape Town. But this electronic dance music was born behind closed doors at underground venues. In the early 1980s, a band of mostly Black, gay artists created house music in old warehouses. Led by such DJs as Frankie Knuckles, a group of artists created a mechanical, bass-heavy sound using drum machines and synthesizers. It became the soundtrack of safe spaces that were free from the racism and homophobia of the outside world.

Running time: 52 minutes

Image: Portrait of DJ Frankie Knuckles at his home, December 9, 2003. CHM, ICHi-189527

Screening Times*

Tuesday–Saturday: 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m.

Sunday: 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m.

The Great Chicago Adventure Film

This dynamic film transports visitors through major events in Chicago’s history. Feel the intensity of the Great Chicago Fire and splendor of the World’s Columbian Exposition. Explore the sights of bustling Maxwell Street in the 1950s and peer down from an I-beam of the Sears Tower in the 1970s. Relive Chicago sports victories and cheer on President Obama during his Grant Park victory speech.

Running time: 27 minutes.

Screening Times*

Tuesday–Saturday: 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m.
Sunday: 12:45 p.m., 2:45 p.m.

*The Robert R. McCormick Theater is occasionally used for other programs and events. Screening times subject to change. Please confirm times with the Ticket Desk during your visit.