Morse Theater to Open as "Mayne Stage and Act One Cafe"


Posted: 1/6/2010
Back

Dear Neighbor,

The New Year brought some welcome news to Morse Avenue and the 49th Ward. 

The historic Morse Theater building at 1328 W. Morse will soon be home to a new entertainment venue--the Mayne Stage--and a new restaurant--the Act One Cafe.  The grand opening is slated for this spring, pending liquor, food and amusement licenses. 

According to the new management team, the 299-seat Mayne Stage will showcase emerging and established Chicago and national touring artists with a variety of musical styles, including jazz, pop, rock and classical.  The theater will also offer live theatrical, variety and comedy performances.  In addition to live performances, Mayne Stage will provide state-of-the-art audio and video systems for studio recordings, rehearsals, educational programs, corporate events and private parties.

Booking and creative development of Mayne Stage will be handled by longtime Chicago entertainment professional Denise McGowan of McGowan Durpetti & Associates. With nearly 30 years on the Chicago entertainment scene, McGowan has discovered, developed, booked and showcased talent from nightclubs, including Byfield's, to Navy Pier, where she served for nine years as Director of Entertainment.

Chicago restaurateur Jimmy Madla, owner of Coobah Restaurant on Southport Avenue, will be executive chef and general manager of the theater's Act One Cafe, which will offer upscale "New American Cuisine" at affordable prices.  Chef Madla says he will showcase "flavors from America's melting pot with traditional techniques and creative twists."  The restaurant will be open nightly.

The opening of this new entertainment and dining venue has already captured the attention Chicago's media.  For an article from the Chicago Tribune's music critic, Howard Reich, click here.   

The Mayne Stage and Act One Cafe will be great compliments to the emerging Morse and Glenwood Arts and Entertainment District.  I hope you will join me in patronizing these exciting new businesses.

Sincerely,

Joe Moore