Management, Investors Confident Morse Theater Will Remain Open

Dear Neighbor,

You may have read a press report last Friday that the Morse Theater, which opened to rave reviews just four months ago, may close its doors temporarily due to a dispute between the theater's principal investor and the management team that operates the theater and its restaurant, the Century Public House.

I have been in regular communication with both sides since I first learned of the dispute early last week, and have urged them to resolve their differences.  The Morse Theater has fast become a favorite destination for music fans from across the Midwest and the linchpin to the revitalization of Morse Avenue. 

The Morse plays host to an eclectic mix of some of the top musicians and bands in the nation, and while the economic recession has hurt attendance at most music venues, the Morse is usually at or near capacity.  It would be a shame to lose all the wonderful momentum for positive change that the Morse Theater has generated in Rogers Park.  That is why I have offered either to mediate the dispute between the parties or identify another neutral third party who could help resolve their differences without litigation. 

I am optimistic a satisfactory resolution of the dispute can be achieved.  Both parties are very aware of the important role the theater plays in the revitalization of Morse Avenue and Rogers Park, and both have told me they are confident the theater will remain open.

In the meantime, I urge you to demonstrate your support for both the Morse Theater and the Century Public House by taking in a show and/or a bite to eat.

I will continue to keep you informed of any new developments.

Sincerely,

Joe Moore