The Ramova Theatre in Chicago’s Bridgeport neighborhood has recently opened its doors to the public, offering a unique blend of entertainment with a concert venue, brewery, and restaurant. Notably, the first major performer at this South Side venue is set to be none other than investor Chance the Rapper, who will be headlining an all-ages show.

When Emily and Tyler Nevius acquired the abandoned Ramova Theatre from the city for a mere $1 in 2021, the building was in a state of disrepair. The couple, who had no prior experience as developers, embarked on a mission to revitalize the theater and transform it into a centerpiece of Halsted Street, complete with a concert hall, brewery, and restaurant. The restoration project required over $30 million in funding, the support of 49 investors, and seven years of navigating bureaucratic hurdles.

Following a soft opening on New Year’s Eve, which featured a queer-friendly dance party, the Ramova Theatre is gearing up for its first major event: a concert by Chance the Rapper, a native of the South Side and an investor in the project. Notably, Chance the Rapper, along with music legends Quincy Jones and Jennifer Hudson, had been quietly involved in the project for years before their public announcement last fall.

As the venue prepares for the upcoming show, WBEZ had the opportunity to tour the site and witness the final preparations being made. Emily Nevius highlighted the original ticket booth, which has been fully restored and is once again operational. Additionally, various historic artifacts, including old movie projectors and the original lighting control board, have been preserved throughout the building.