The building where more than 1.75 million people discovered professional theater in the suburbs is turning 30.

The North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie opened in 1996, the product of a 17-year campaign to replace a repurposed high school auditorium with a purpose-built venue. Archival photos and articles tracing that journey filled the Center's lobby throughout June as part of a 30th anniversary display.

"We found some amazing photos and articles that focused on when this venue was originally conceived, designed and constructed," Executive Director Lynn Cannon told the Skokie Performing Arts Center Board at its Monday, June 8 meeting.

The story began in 1979, when Dorothy Litwin founded Centre East after Niles East High School closed. Operating out of the school's old auditorium, Centre East brought professional theater, music, and dance to local audiences for 17 years, drawing crowds that proved the demand was real.

By the mid-1980s, conversations about a dedicated facility were underway. In 1993, Graham Gund Architects was commissioned to design a 69,000-square-foot complex with an 839-seat main theater and a 500-seat multipurpose space. The budget started at $15 million and climbed past $19 million by completion, funded through state dollars, local investment, and private donations.

Thirty years in, the Center is thriving financially. Cannon reported that fiscal year 2026 financials exceeded budget by $297,388, with nearly 70% of North Shore Center Presents shows turning a profit on ticket sales alone. The Center hosted 70 rental events in FY26, plus productions from its two resident companies and nine performances for school children.

But one chapter is closing. Northlight Theatre, a resident company since 1997, completed its final production at the Center in May and is relocating to Evanston, where it has not yet announced a permanent address. Artistic Director BJ Jones, the longest-tenured artistic director in the League of Resident Theatres, wrote that the North Shore Center "saved us at a critical time" and helped the company build its audience base over 29 years.

The Skokie PAC Board discussed a planned 2027 renovation of the North Theatre at its June 8 meeting; scope and budget have not been publicly detailed. The 30th Anniversary Benefit Gala, featuring Little Feat on their Last Farewell Tour, is scheduled for Saturday, November 14, at 8 p.m. in the George Van Dusen Theatre.

North Shore community and culture week ahead

Friday, July 3 – Wilmette: Fun & Fireworks at Gillson Park, 5–10 p.m. Enhanced 40-minute fireworks display at 9:20 p.m. over Lake Michigan, sponsored by North Shore Community Bank for America's 250th anniversary. Two stages of live entertainment, family activities, food vendors. Free admission; beach access requires a season pass.

Friday, July 3 – Glencoe: Party in the Park at Lakefront Park starting at 5 p.m. Live music by the Yacht Rock-ettes at 6:45 p.m. Fireworks at 9 p.m. Bike decorating at Wyman Park, 2:30–4:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 4 – Winnetka: Firecracker 5K Run, 7 a.m., Green Bay Trail (130 Wilson St.). Parade at 10 a.m. from Elm Street and Glendale Avenue. Events on the Green, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Live music at Duke Child's Field (Talk of the Town at 7 p.m., Jesse White Tumblers at 8 p.m.). Fireworks at 9 p.m.

Saturday, July 4 – Glencoe: Community parade in Downtown Glencoe at 1 p.m.

Saturday, July 4 – Northfield: Parade begins at 10 a.m. at the North Shore Senior Center, followed by activities at the Community Center.

Through Sunday, September 20 – Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe: "Shimmering Summer" exhibit featuring towering iridescent bubble sculptures by Australian art duo Atelier Sisu. Weekend family events at Festival Field. Free with garden admission or membership.

Through Sunday, August 16 – Writers Theatre, Glencoe: Leopoldstadt by Tom Stoppard, directed by Carey Perloff. Extended due to demand. Best ticket availability July 22–August 16. Alexandra C. and John D. Nichols Theatre, 325 Tudor Court.

Friday, July 24 – Glencoe: Glencoe Al Fresco at WLC Park (next to Writers Theatre), 325 Tudor Court, 5–7 p.m. Outdoor dining, live music, food trucks. Co-presented by Writers Theatre, the Village of Glencoe, and the Glencoe Public Library. Free admission.