| Address | 2875 W. Cermak Road, Chicago, IL |
|---|---|
| Built | 1917 |
| Architect | Alexander L. Levy |
| Status | Designated Chicago Landmark |
| Designation Date | April 17, 2024 (Final)City Council Journal of the Proceedings, p. 11276 |
| Neighborhood | South Lawndale |
| Type | Theater and entertainment |
| Landmark ID | L-385 |
Interior spaces protected by this designation
- The interior lobby.
- The interior of the auditorium.
Not covered by the designation
- 1990 changes to the interiors of the lobby and auditorium, including floor finishes, new floor platforms, three bars, neon lighting, chandeliers, stage lighting and its ceiling-mounted trusses, cameras, screens, and bathrooms are specifically excluded from the significant historical and architectural features.
Direct quotes from the Chicago Landmark Designation Report
“Levy designed a number of synagogues in Chicago, and at least two survive. The oldest is from 1902 and was commissioned by the Ohave Sholom Miriampol congregation. Located at 733 S. Ashland Boulevard, Levy's domed Classical Revival synagogue now is home to St.”
“Since 1990, Apollo's 2000 has transformed the historic theater to an event and performance space that contributes to the cultural landscape of Little Village and Chicago's wider Hispanic community by promoting Latin music, lectures and supporting local non-profit organizations.”
“The survival of the Marshall Square Theatre is credited to Javier and Lidia Galindo, Mexican immigrants who purchased the darkened theater in 1989. In 1990, they rechristened the building as Apollo's 2000 and have successfully converted it to an event and performance venue that has become a cultural hub in the Little Village neighborhood and wider Hispanic community of Chicago.”
“Beginning in the 1990s, Apollo's 2000 hosted Spanish Rock and Pop as well as Latin Jazz performers that were well attended and demonstrated a substantial market for Latin music that had been ignored in Chicago.”
“The new theater was named after Marshall Square, the historic name for the surrounding neighborhood that has since been replaced by the more widely-recognized term Little Village. The announcement for the new building identified Alexander L. Levy as the architect and detailed plans for 2,600 seats in the theater as well as rental storefronts and offices.”
“In 1912, Levy designed his first theater, the Marshfield at 1650 W. Roosevelt Road on the Near West Side (demolished). It was the first of several that he would design for theater operators Louis and Meyer Marks who are discussed below.”
“Apollo's 2000 showcased Spanish Rock bands in 1990s, a time when this popular genre was overlooked by Chicago promoters. Artists such as Maná, Los Fabulosos Cadillacs, Fobia and La Ley have graced the stage at Apollo's 2000.”
“Apollo's rich association with music, creativity, and inspiration aligned perfectly with the essence and vision we had for the venue, reflecting our commitment to fostering artistic expression and innovation.”
“The power of music as a bridge between communities is exemplified at the Apollo's 2000, and its legacy of growth and success is a testament to our belief in the transformative influence of music in our lives.”
“Both came from architect Alexander Levy who had by this time had partnered with William J. Klein, though Edward C. Eichenbaum of their staff is credited with both designs in an elaborate Spanish Baroque style of architecture.”
What other designation reports say about this building
“…15 theaters designed by Levy in Chicago, of this number only the Marshall Square Theater from 1917, now Apollo's 2000 survives. It stands 2875 W. Cermak Road and was designated as a Chicago Landmark in 2024. In 1920, Levy formed a partnership with William J. Klein about whom little is known.”