Elmhurst is one step closer to getting a performing arts center. Residents and local business owners Doug and Cindy Peterson recently announced a $10,000 matching funds donation to the Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts, a grassroots initiative hoping to build a state-of-the-art entertainment complex in downtown Elmhurst.

The donation comes on the heels of ECPA being officially established as a not-for-profit (501(c)3) organization, registered in the State of Illinois.

ECPA hopes to build a performance center that will house a large theater (350-seat) and a smaller theater (100-seat) as well as classrooms, studios, and an onsite bar and catering kitchen for private/corporate events. It would provide a performing home for local not-for-profits, including Elmhurst Children’s Theatre, Du Page Dance Academy, and Greenman Theatre Troupe, as well as serve as a destination venue for touring music and comedy performances.

The project is being spearheaded by Board Chairman Laura Michaud, an Elmhurst resident and co-founder of Stage 773 in Chicago’s Belmont theatre district. The Arts and Business Council of Chicago, an organization that provides support and counsel to Chicago area nonprofits, has approved a study on the economic impact of a performing arts center and how it would bring revenue to the city and local businesses.

No location for the center has been determined; however, local architect and business leader Jeff Budgell has begun talks with the city and developers about potential sites.

The Petersons are the owners and founders of several local businesses, including Chicago Records Management, Inc. and TailGate. They hope that their initial donation, raised with the support of a small circle of private donors, will ignite interest in ECPA and help it reach its goal of $100,000 by the end of 2016.

ECPA will unveil more plans at its Patio Party on July 13, 5-8 p.m., at Flight 112, Park Ave., Elmhurst. The event is open to the public and everyone is encouraged to attend. You can find more information at ecpa-elmhurst.org.

If you’re excited about living somewhere that offers such rich, cultural opportunities, contact us at (630) 441-5570 or www.gmregroup.com. Be sure to follow us like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram @DupageHomes.

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