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The Hemmens Cultural Center: Elgin's Premier Arts Hub

Experience world-class performances and community events at Elgin's premier arts and entertainment venue, the Hemmens Cultural Center.

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The Hemmens Cultural Center, located in downtown Elgin, Illinois, is a cornerstone of the city's arts community. This 1,200-seat theater hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, theater productions, and community events. Named after Hattie Pease Hemmens, whose generous bequest funded its construction, the Hemmens has been a cultural landmark since 1969.

A brief summary to The Hemmens Cultural Center

Local tips

  • Check the Hemmens Cultural Center's website for upcoming events and show schedules.
  • Arrive early to find convenient parking in the free lots and parking deck near the Hemmens.
  • Consider taking the Metra train to Elgin; one of the city's three Metra stations is a short walk from the Hemmens.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Elgin Metra station, walk north on Grove Avenue, then turn right onto Symphony Way. The Hemmens Cultural Center will be on your right, a short walk from the station. This walk is approximately 5-10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    The Elgin Transportation Center is located at 102-06 W. Chicago Street, about a 15-minute walk from The Hemmens. From the transportation center, several Pace bus routes connect to the downtown area. Check the Pace Bus website for specific routes and schedules. A single ride fare is $2.00.

  • Driving

    The Hemmens Cultural Center is easily accessible from I-90. Exit at Route 31 and head south to Kimball Street. Turn left on Kimball, then right on Grove Avenue/Symphony Way. The Hemmens will be on your left. Free parking is available in the parking deck at Douglas and Symphony Way, and in nearby surface lots. During construction, allow extra time to park and enter through the east and south doors.

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Discover more about The Hemmens Cultural Center

The Hemmens Cultural Center stands as a testament to Elgin's commitment to the arts. Opened in 1969, the center is named for Hattie Pease Hemmens, a prominent Elgin resident who left over $1 million to the city to establish a community building and auditorium. Hattie, a 'love child' raised by her grandparents, bequeathed her fortune to benefit the citizens of Elgin. The Hemmens Cultural Center is more than just a theater; it's a vibrant hub for the performing arts. The 1,200-seat theater provides an intimate setting to see various performances. The Hemmens is the performance home of the Elgin Symphony Orchestra and hosts community theater groups, dance recitals, and graduation ceremonies. The 11,340 square-foot Exhibition Hall has a fully equipped banquet kitchen, art gallery, and meeting rooms for wedding receptions, trade shows, and exhibits. Attending a performance at The Hemmens is an experience to be remembered. The venue boasts clear sightlines and wide aisles, providing an unparalleled concert and theater-going experience. The Hemmens Art Gallery, located on the lower level, showcases pieces purchased by the City of Elgin at various Elgin arts festivals.

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