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Coronado Performing Arts Center: A Rockford Gem

Experience the opulent grandeur of a bygone era at Rockford's Coronado Performing Arts Center, a beautifully restored 1927 atmospheric theater.

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The Coronado Performing Arts Center in Rockford, Illinois, is a beautifully restored atmospheric theater. Opened in 1927, it offers a unique and opulent setting for concerts, shows, and events, transporting visitors to a bygone era of grandeur.

A brief summary to Coronado Performing Arts Center

Local tips

  • Arrive early to fully appreciate the stunning architecture and interior details of the theater.
  • Check the Coronado Performing Arts Center's website for a schedule of upcoming events and performances.
  • Consider pre-paying for parking to ensure a smoother and more convenient experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Rockford, the Coronado Performing Arts Center is easily accessible on foot. From the intersection of State and Main Street, walk north on Main Street for approximately two blocks. The Coronado will be on your left. Allow 5-10 minutes for a leisurely walk.

  • Public Transport

    The Rockford Mass Transit District (RMTD) provides bus service to the Coronado Performing Arts Center. Check the RMTD website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. Several bus routes stop near the intersection of Main and Elm, a short walk from the theater. A single ride fare is $2.00.

  • Driving

    If driving, the Coronado Performing Arts Center is located at 314 N Main St, Rockford, IL 61101. From the south, take I-39 North to US Route 20 West, then exit onto IL Route 2 North (Main St). Follow Main St for approximately 2 miles. Event parking is available in the parking deck directly across from the Coronado. Additional parking is available in the lower level of the parking deck accessed by turning right (north) on Wyman St. Parking fees are determined by the city of Rockford. Pre-pay parking is recommended. Nearby parking garages, such as Pioneer Garage at 311 N. Main Street, offer hourly rates. Expect to pay around $35-$51 for event parking.

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Discover more about Coronado Performing Arts Center

The Coronado Performing Arts Center, originally known as the Coronado Theatre, stands as a cultural and architectural landmark in the heart of Rockford, Illinois. Since its grand opening on October 9, 1927, this historic theater has captivated audiences with its opulent design and rich history. Designed by architect Frederic J. Klein, the theater's construction cost $1.5 million, demonstrating the community's commitment to arts and entertainment. The interior is designed in the atmospheric style, popular in the 1920s, creating the ambiance of an outdoor theater with a deep blue sky ceiling, twinkling stars, and drifting clouds. The auditorium walls feature facades of gilded Spanish and Italian-style buildings, enhancing the feeling of old-world opulence. Green stained-glass lamps and intricate Japanese dragons add to the venue's exotic charm. From its early days, the Coronado hosted both movies and live stage performances, featuring legendary performers such as Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, and Bob Hope. In 1979, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. After a period of decline, the Kerasotes Theater Organization donated the property to the City of Rockford in 1997, leading to an $18.5 million restoration project. The theater reopened in 2001 as a state-of-the-art performance and entertainment facility. Today, the Coronado continues to host a variety of events, including concerts, Broadway shows, and performances by the Rockford Symphony Orchestra.

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