Culver’s former movie theater will be getting some recognition during a series of events this weekend. The 1920s-era theater was most recently known as the Uptown Cinema, before closing in 2012. It was also called the El Rancho Theater, the Lakeside Cinema, and the Palms at other points during its nearly-nine-decade history.
Now, the nonprofit Maxinkuckee Theatre Association is leading efforts to restore and reopen the theater, and they’re looking for some volunteers to help them. Those interested in joining the effort, as well as those who’d simply like to learn more about the theater, will have the opportunity to take a look inside and speak with project organizers. The event will take place Saturday from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the theater at 612 Lake Shore Drive. It will serve as a lead-in to that evening’s L’Max Film Fest at the Culver Town Park.
Earlier Saturday, the theater will be a featured topic during a 10:00 a.m. presentation during the Culver Farmers’ Market in the Town Park. Jeff Kenney with preservation group Culver-Union Township Heritage will discuss the history of the theater, as well as others in the Culver area.
For more information, visit the Culver-Union Township Heritage Facebook Page.
