I had a ton of fun watching a cover band here. Don't expect a mosh pit, the crowd runs a bit older - ha. But everyone was in to it and having fun. The staff there were nice and knew what they were doing. I heard there was a speakeasy there but I didn't go upstairs to see it read more

This is a pretty nice venue! They've put in lots of work to restore this old theater and it shows. Seats are comfortable, decent leg room. Plenty of food and beverages to choose from. The service is fast and friendly too. Prices are not too bad either. About on par with other similar venues. There's a speakeasy two floors up, but we didn't check it out yet. I feel the sound could be better, but I know that's subjective and could be due to many variables. Anyway, check this place out! I think you'll like it. read more

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Again and again Ron Onesti does what is a lost art, throws a good party. Not only does he get fabulous performers, he has unique events like the screening of the Dick Biondi documentary which included an Impromptu performance from Chicago's Jim Peteric. We grabbed a bite in the Des Pizza spot he has in there and my only complaint is that IT IS NOT OPEN DAILY. The food was simply out of this world. I reviewed it separately but I will say I have never had better pizza or meatballs. VERY fair prices too. The venue is BEYOND easy to get to/park etc. Great location. Ron has literally hit it out of the park with this place. read more

This place has an amazing staff that cares about this place! From the security to the bartenders everyone is a joy. This place also has great pizza and two fully stocked bars. The prices to concerts aren't bad but it's a lot of older bands, nothing new. Plenty of parking in the city garages or on the street. Or a very easy METRA ride in. I recommend everyone stop by once, very pretty interior and a great speak easy above. they have live music most nights too. read more

Des Plaines Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

Beautiful 100 year old theater. Saved from demolition just a few months ago for its birthday! read more

Des Plaines Theatre - One of columns inside theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

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This theater has been revived to all its glory. Ron Onesti did a beautiful job restoring thie old DesPlaines Theater. It's a really cool place to hang out and see concerts. Upstairs has a cool Speakeasy that's stunning. On the main floor there is also a beautiful bar & a place to get some food. The staff is all really great with good service. It's easy to get to & parking is so easy and free behind the venue. This is just a really great place to go hang out, or go to a concert. They have such a wide variety of events going on there. Mr. Onesti is a class act & often comes on before the show. Check out the Des Plaines Theatre or even some on the other theatres he has, they are all in great locations, beautiful, with so much on site from bars to food. All of them are ten out of ten!! read more

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12/12/24 - it's been decades since I've been inside of The Des Plaines Theater. I use to come here in the 70's for $.60 cent movies. They reopened the theater Oct 2021 after doing a complete rehab of the theater, the main lobby entrance & especially the speakeasy upstairs. It's so awesome the see what they have done We were invited to see a show @ the theater by my nieces husband Bill. Bill is a Chicago Fireman. Part of the revenues for the show went to a fund that will benefit the families of first responders ie firemen, police, paramedics that have been either disabled, injured or died on the job. The Des Plaines Theater was built in 1925. The show "Do You Hear What I Hear was produced by Onesti Entertainment. Wayne Messmer performed part of the show. read more

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Unbeilve place! I've been there 4 or 5 times and it's like you're walking back into time. Great service great music... There's a speakeasy upstairs which you feel like you're stepping back into time you think you're going to see Dean Martin or Frank Sinatra it's super cool! And the flatbread is wonderful! Cheryl that works in box office Is so nice. I always have a nice chat with her They've been great. The seats are comfortable... I always seem to meet new friends there.. read more

I have always enjoyed the professionalism of employees at the theater until a few days ago. My sister and her husband and son went to see rock bands - they had tickets for the front row but it reeked of weed so they sought a seat in the balcony to get away from the crowd and smell. Once in the balcony they were approached by a security member who not only demanded they leave but proceeded to place hands on my brother in law. How convenient the cameras were not working at that time. Can we say a bit of ego??!! It was a horrible experience and we will not be back to an Onesti production read more

Saw "BIG SUITS", a tribute ban featuring Talking Heads music. The venue was perfect for an intimate musical performance. Highly recommend! read more

Des Plaines Theatre - Bongo Scott Music critic - Performing Arts Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

Nice theater, however seats are too tight, and uncomfortable, especially with winter clothing.

Could do without all the owner fanfare and patronizing / pandering (?) USA cheer before the show, otherwise a cool place with some history and nice aesthetic read more

I attended an event for the Italian American association and haven't been here since it was renovated. What an amazing place , looks great and so glad it was renewed. Big thanks to Ron Onesti read more

A very old theater that is quite nicely redone. Have been to a few concerts here and the sound and view from the main floor was great. Have not sat in the balcony yet. Will definitely be back for another show. read more

Coco Hawley was the singer of the night on my inaugural visit to their Bourbon 'N Brass Speakeasy.  There is no cover on Wednesdays and Thursdays and it was a treat to hear her sing while enjoying a couple of drinks.  She has a great voice and likes to interact with her audience and is a hoot.  She sang from 7 - 10pm with a couple of breaks.  The hidden second floor Speakeasy is quite quaint, cozy, and comfortable and it's like an intimate piano bar setting with period decor but without the piano.  She sang various hits from the 60's - 80's and later took suggestions from the audience, just like at a piano bar, and even took my Stevie Nicks' request.  In fact Coco is a native of Park Ridge, being a 1980 graduate of Maine South HS, but also sang at a Manhattan Midtown piano bar on 46th Street for some 18 years.  So she's been around and is an 'ol pro and this Speakeasy is home base for now. They have a small but full bar right in the Speakeasy and serve a limited selection of beers and wines, but can make whatever cocktail you might like and the cocktails are in the $15 - $18 range.  There is no written drink menu per se.  I had a couple of delectable Woodford Reserve Old Fashioned's for $15 and Ivan was the friendly bartender.  It was a nice, fun, and enjoyable outing and I plan to return. read more

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We spent our Valentine's Day at the Des Plaines theatre and participated in their murder mystery dinner, St Valentine's Day massacre. The theatre looked amazing through its renovation. We didn't know what to expect as this was our first murder mystery dinner. The seating was self serving. If you are going with a group, go early to get your table. The show had about 10 tables (10 person per table) You will share with others. The dinner part could be better organized. Dinner was not plated, you have to stand in line. The process probably took a little under an hour to feed the patrons. We had a basic salad with Italian dressing, meatballs (yummy), and cheese ravioli. The staff was super nice. If you want alcoholic beverages, I suggest you get it prior to sitting down before dinner. The line does get long. As for the show, it was cool! The actors of the show was fantastic. We went with another couple and we had a great time! read more

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Another wonderful show! We received complimentary tickets for Phat Cat Swingers. We were not familiar with them, but on very hot Sunday afternoon we decided to attend. What a surprise. They often perform at Disney parks and put on an entertaining show. Great orchestra and lots of energy. There were several audience members dancing throughout out the show. A very entertaining show. read more

Des Plaines Theatre - Complimentary tickets from Daily Herald - Performing Arts Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

I attended an event at the Des Plaines theater over the weekend. I enjoy the show however the seating was very restricted.. They were rather tight that did not allow for comfortable seating, especially considering the winter months when patrons are wearing heavy coats. With the remodeling of the theater, you would think they would have made more comfortable seating for the patrons. I will possibly attend some majority upcoming event in the future, but I'll make sure it's during the summer months when you can possibly sit comfortable in the tight seats.. once again I really feel that the seating accommodations should be addressed. read more

Saw Al Dimeola there. We had front row seats. Good concert. Restrooms were good and concessions also.

Went here to see Mark Farner of the long disbanded Grand Funk Railroad. Great theater and looked to have been recently restored. Small bar in the lobby serving beer, wine and cocktails. Parking in the train station across the street. Very pleasant experience and would go back. read more

I stopped by here on 11/3/2023 to see Mr. Tito Puente, Jr. The security guys were nice. Bathroom was clean. The restaurant area was nice though I didn't try anything. The theater was good, seats were ok. Good acoustics. read more

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I finally got to see a concert at the newly renovated and reopened Des Plaines Theatre the other night (Metallica cover band called the four horsemen - great band) - it is seriously beautiful! Everything looks brand new and super clean, seats are comfortable and the sound system is pretty good as well. Tickets are pretty reasonable and staff are friendly, drinks are reasonably priced for a concert venue especially compared to downtown ones. Great to see it open again and looking forward to seeing more shows here in the future! read more

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Wow! Just curious to see on maps what became of my childhood growing up in Downtown Des Plaines (715 River Road)! 10 apartment Rentals in Two big houses, went to North School, $1 allowance every week and like clockwork, Saturday afternoon walk 4-5 blocks to Des Plaines Theater to see 2 movies for .50 cents and afterwards would run to The "1st" McDonalds and scrounge ground for a few Pennie's or ask for a nickel and would get me a Cheeseburger for .50 some odd cents! Borm in Arlington Heights now living in Cotulla, Texas ever since! Great and fond memories growing up in a great town! I will return sooner than later to visit! read more

The entire experience was fantastic. Great food and Happy Hour. Seating, show and lighting was superior. Can't wait to return. You won't be disappointed!!! Buy your tickets now. Wonderful night that we won't soon forget. Keith & Becky read more

Kudos to the City of Des Plaines for the fine job of renovating this theater and preserving history. The speakeasy and pizza concession restaurant are now open joining the bar that is also there. Really not a bad seat in the house. Acoustics were good. Easy access to the free parking garage behind the theater. We saw the cover band The Great Pretenders compliments of the Daily Herald. The musicians were all very accomplished but the Chrissie Hynde impression by Suzanne Cross was really impressive. Apparently these musicians are part of several other bands including Deacon Blues who cover Steely Dan. It was a fun evening out. Many people got up to dance. read more

Des Plaines Theatre - Great sight lines and acoustics from every seat - Performing Arts Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

Des Plaines is Nice remodeled Theater Owned by Onesti Entertainment also owns Arcada Theater St Charles most concerts we go to are at these 2 venues Parking is a bit better in Des Plaines also you do not have to take the Tri State expressway to get here you can travel Rt 83 to Oakton ... cool to see the planes taking off from O'Hare as well read more

Des Plaines Theatre - Stylistics - Performing Arts Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

Went for a Pretenders tribute concert on a Thursday night courtesy of Onesti Productions. Small intimate theatre that has been restored. The first 10 rows are individual chairs. The rest of the seating is theatre seating with cup holders. Food and drinks are allowed. They have a small Bourbon bar at the entrance and a small snack area serving popcorn and pizza also upon entry. Mixed drinks average 12.00. Surcharge to use a credit card. The sound was very good the evening we went but that depends on the sound engineer for the band. They have many tribute bands as well as top performers at decent prices. Free parking garage behind the theatre. I will return! read more

The theatre is located in the downtown and is surrounded by few small restaurants/bars. I've experienced this theater multiple times, and it truly stands out as a fantastic renovated venue, seamlessly blending vintage Art Deco style with a vibrant music atmosphere. The acoustics in the theatre are good. The hidden speakeasy-themed bar on the second floor adds a charming touch to the overall experience. read more

This is a great local place to see many major Concerts in the NW Burbs. No one really wants to drive down to the Loop in Chicago..Its not a good idea. This venue works much better..Thanks to Ron Onesti and the village of Des Plaines!!! read more

Des Plaines Theatre - Journey man last week at the Des Plaines Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

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Nice little Theater, decorated old fashion, like the music box. Great parking and drinks enjoying Jim Belushi's show. read more

Des Plaines Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Des Plaines, Illinois

Lovely theater that has been nicely restored!

Great venue for concerts. Seats were comfortable. Parking garage was free and safe. Bar in the lobby was convenient for alcoholic and non- alcoholic drinks. Plenty of security inside the theatre and as we were leaving, there was security by the parking garage. Theatre was clean. Seating attendants were helpful, especially for those using walkers. read more

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Beautiful auditorium at this junior college Beluschi donated. Great jazz band playing their takes on 100 years Disney tunes and read more

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Great small venue where my wife and I attended the Righteous Brothers concert. Excellent performance and will definitely go back to see other artists. read more

Service poor. Different drinks at different bars and understaffed. Not well attended for concert. Really a shame. Want this place to make it. Security does not seem to want people to have fun. Will not go back. read more

Sunday afternoon another great performance by Tusk, a Fleetwood Mac cover band. Literally close your eyes and Mac was on the stage. Loved the show and the venue! It was very crowded. I didn't love the fact that there was a not very good opening act! Seems unnecessary at a venue like this. read more

We desperately need more music venues so I'm happy that the Des Plaines Theatre opened. However, it is not ideal. First couple of times I came here the acoustics were horrific. They seem to have gotten it right now, last night's show sounded great. However, upon purchasing tickets I had a pretty strange encounter with the ticket seller. As directed by a sign posted on the outside window, I went inside. As I started to talk to the ticket seller he got a phone call. I overheard him ask the caller to call back as it was busy (that's debatable but whatever). The caller clearly had a lot of questions, perhaps a problem and wasn't hanging up. I waited very patiently for the call to end, I wasn't in a particular hurry. Just prior to the call ending a couple approached and said they were just picking up tickets. I kindly said to go ahead of me to make their simple transaction. The seller then turned his attention to me and I asked VERY legitimate questions about which seats were left and the various price points. At this, the seller said, "look, I'm very busy!" in a NOT nice tone. I was dumbfounded and could only say, "too busy to sell me tickets??" I hope he realized how insane his statement was. The point of purchase set up is not ideal, I had to stand outside his booth trying to look at the screen on his laptop, no counter area. It was unorthodox. Anyway, got my tickets, saw the show, sound was good. I think they can do a lot more with the two eating areas; I think one very casual with beer, wine and crappy "food " and the other a bar with far too few seats and one potentially long line to get cocktails. I hope Onesti puts a little more money into making this the entertainment venue it has the potential to be. read more

It's nice to have a place that size to see a concert once in awhile. Thank you Ron Onesti! I love the seats that they have because they are little roomy. Thanks for all that all of you do for us. Kathy and Chris from Skokie, IL read more

It is a very nice theater where great shows are performed. Parking is easy which makes it a no worry zone.

Have to admit I had low expectations for this venue but it pleasantly surprised me. Nice food and drink options at theater which is helpful because not many options near by the actual theater. Super fun to see Richard Marx here! Would absolutely return for another concert. read more