Arcada Theatre Celebrates 100th Anniversary with Parade and Iconic Guests

Historic Celebration in St. Charles

St. Charles marked a unique Labor Day weekend with a centennial celebration for the Arcada Theatre. Owners organized a parade and festivities on Sunday to honor the venue’s 100-year legacy, featuring appearances by celebrities Chubby Checker and Priscilla Presley.

Rich History of Arcada Theatre

Opening its doors on September 6, 1926, the Arcada Theatre has hosted a variety of entertainment forms, from silent films to vaudeville acts and national touring shows, according to a press release.

Event Highlights

The day commenced with a meet-and-greet session with Priscilla Presley inside Studio 64 at 1 p.m. The Arcada Centennial Parade followed, showcasing the path from Sixth Street west of the Fox River to the theatre at 105 E. Main St.

An evening concert at 6 p.m. exhibited the History of Rock ‘N Roll, spotlighting renowned musicians from past decades. Arcada President and CEO Ron Onesti presented the Arcada Theatre Legacy Awards to bands closely tied to the venue’s history.

“The celebration has been a year in the making and we wanted to do something special that would reflect not only the history of the theater, but also a rock-n-roll feel with a nod to pop culture,” Onesti stated.

Participants and Record Attempt

Over 3,000 people gathered for the celebration, including Cheryl Szaravajka from Vernon Hills. Participants joined in a record-breaking attempt for the largest ‘Twist’ dance, inspired by Chubby Checker’s iconic song.

“I know what’s going on here today. The song, ‘The Twist,’ is a classic and everyone can relate to it,” Szaravajka remarked.

Ron Onesti expressed determination in breaking the Guinness World Record for the biggest ‘Twist’ dance, aiming to surpass the number of participants required.

Laurie Milbourn of St. Charles emphasized, “The Arcada Theatre is really the heart of St. Charles that draws so many people.”

Celebrity Perspectives on Arcada’s Importance

Chubby Checker and Priscilla Presley shared their thoughts on the significance of venues like Arcada. Checker appreciated the theatre’s history and future, while Presley highlighted the role of such venues in bringing people together.

“As far as venues like this – they are our past, they are our future,” Checker noted.

Presley commented on the cultural importance of these venues, stating the need to continue fostering community through shared experiences.

David Sharos contributed to the original coverage for The Beacon-News.