In 1929, the Ramova Theatre opened its doors in Bridgeport, becoming the neighborhood’s most iconic movie palace. With its stunning Spanish-inspired architecture and distinctive signage, it served as a beloved gathering place for the community. Fast forward nearly a century, and the Ramova is undergoing a remarkable transformation. The venue is set to reopen this fall as a multifaceted cultural hub in Chicago’s Bridgeport neighborhood, featuring a live concert hall, craft brewery in partnership with Other Half Brewing, a vibrant beer garden, and a delectable grill.

After meticulous restoration work that preserves the building’s architectural heart, the Ramova will once again light up the corner of Halsted and 35th Street. It aims to attract some of the nation’s top musical acts while also engaging with the local community through educational programs, workshops, and outreach initiatives. The reopening is the culmination of extensive efforts, including substantial public and private investments, dedicated to revitalizing the South Side Chicago community and establishing Bridgeport as a premier live entertainment destination.

Since its opening in 1929, the Ramova Theatre was Bridgeport’s go-to movie theater until its final screening of “Police Academy 2” in 1985. In 2021, it earned a well-deserved place on the National Register of Historic Places, thanks to grassroots campaigning by devoted community members. In 2017, developer Tyler Nevius stepped in as an investor and owner, spearheading the complete revitalization of this beloved neighborhood theater.

Working closely with architect Dan O’Riley of O’Riley Office in Chicago, the theater has been brilliantly reimagined into a spacious live music venue capable of hosting over 1,500 people. The Ramova’s return won’t just bring top-tier musical acts to Bridgeport; it will also be a hub for educational programs, workshops, and a platform for local non-profits’ community initiatives. The spirit of the Ramova remains intact, and its future is brighter than ever.

Brooklyn’s Other Half Brewing has partnered with the Ramova, exclusively brewing their recipes in the newly established Other Half Ramova. The brewery’s mission is to extend Other Half’s tradition of building community in Bridgeport, akin to their work in Brooklyn. At the Ramova, neighbors can come together to share a pint, exchange music playlists, or unwind before, during, and after shows at the theater. In addition to its craft beer offerings, Other Half Ramova will feature collaborations and taps from some of Chicago’s most beloved breweries.

The Ramova Grill, which closed its doors in 2012 after serving the Bridgeport community for 82 years, is making a comeback as a cozy 20-seat restaurant attached to Other Half Ramova. The culinary and beverage programs will be overseen by partners Kevin Hickey and Brandon Phillips of The Duck Inn, offering a menu that pays homage to the neighborhood while providing delightful, shareable bites. Expect mouthwatering sandwiches, burgers, fries, and the signature dish, chili, all made with top-notch ingredients and an elevated culinary touch. Diners can conveniently order from the grill while enjoying the craft brews from Other Half Brewing or take their food out to the spacious beer garden, ideal for pre- and post-show gatherings.

The Ramova’s grand reopening is scheduled for the fall of 2023, promising an exciting fusion of music, culture, culinary delights, and craft brews in the heart of Bridgeport. To stay updated on this exciting development, visit www.ramovachicago.com or follow @ramovachicago on Instagram and Facebook.

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