Over the Labor Day weekend, St. Charles celebrated a unique event as the Arcada Theatre marked its 100th anniversary. Owners organized a vibrant celebration that included a downtown parade and appearances from Chubby Checker and Priscilla Presley.
The Arcada Theatre, which opened on September 6, 1926, has a rich history of hosting everything from silent films to national touring shows. A press release emphasized the weekend as a new chapter in the venue’s storied life.
The festivities commenced with a meet-and-greet with Priscilla Presley at 1 p.m. inside Studio 64. The Arcada Centennial Parade followed, starting at Sixth Street on the west side of the Fox River and moving east toward the theatre on Main Street.
As the day closed, the theatre hosted the History of Rock ‘N Roll Concert at 6 p.m., featuring musicians from the 1960s to the 1980s. Arcada President and CEO Ron Onesti highlighted the day’s main events, including giving the ‘Arcada Theatre Legacy Awards’ to long-standing bands.
The celebration has been a year in the making, reflecting the theatre’s history and rock-n-roll vibe,” Onesti noted.
He detailed the planning and mentioned recruiting Chubby Checker for a street dance featuring ‘The Twist’. Onesti, having met Checker years ago, aimed to challenge the Guinness World Record for the largest ‘Twist’ dance.
Cheryl Szaravajka from Vernon Hills joined over 3,000 eager participants. “’The Twist’ is a classic. Today, we’re part of history,” she remarked.
Ron Onesti captured a moment with Checker singing ‘The Twist’ in front of the theatre, as thousands tried to break the world record.
Laurie Milbourn, a lifelong St. Charles resident, expressed, “The Arcada Theatre is vital for the local culture.”
During the event, both Checker and Presley commented on the Arcada’s role. Checker, reflecting on its 100-year legacy, stated, “Venues like this are our past and our future.”
Presley echoed his sentiments, affirming the importance of such theaters for community connection and culture.
The parade included a float featuring Priscilla Presley, as the community celebrated a century of the beloved venue.