I used to volunteer at the theater and one of the best times to go is during Ebertfest (Film Critic Roger Ebert is from Champaign). They show several movies that Ebert picks out himself and frequently some of the actors or other people who were involved in the film show up. The festival is usually held in the spring. The theater has been somewhat newly restored and is beautiful. A neat experience.
In town for the annual trek to Ebertfest, and what a difference a year makes for the Virginia Theatre! It is beautiful! Do not expect the roomy comfort of modern cinemas. This is a restored theatre with one beautiful screen, new seats that are reminiscent of that period, new and clean bathrooms that are conveniently located, and probably not a bad seat in the house. There is a balcony that has a wonderful view, too! Enjoy!
Want to see the play Disney's Cinderella Kids. It was a play put on by 5 , 6 and 7 years old. they did a great job. The seat were very comfortable. and the price very affordable. You could get drinks and popcorn, and you could take in to the theatre. Would go again.
We spend three days here at Ebert Fest. The restoration is amazing. SO beautiful. Very hard to find seats as it was sold out, and the rows weren't staggered much that I could tell, so seeing around heads was an issue-especially with subtitles. And tall people need an aisle since even my knees were against the seat in front of me. But it is a great project, and would love to go back. Downtown Champaign in general has come SO far since I was in school in the 80s.
Ringing in 2015 onstage at the newly remodeled Virginia Theater with the CHORALE was so much fun! Our repertoire featured songs from the decades of the 40's, 50's and 60's like "As Time Goes By," "Moon River," "What a Wonderful World," "Mona Lisa," "Dream," and many others. We also performed three of the Beatles' hit tunes and my husband's favorite was "If I Fell." We were joined by a splendid group of barbershoppers, After Hours. Their harmonies were amazing and I particularly enjoyed their encore of "Beautiful Savior." Like our second number, I think the audience left with a "Smile!"
My wife/I went to a 4:30 movie at this theatre this past week & really enjoyed the experience. The theatre is very rustic w/lots of history but we found it to be very clean w/great sound. The fôlks who sold us our tickets as well as popcorn & water were very nice. We will be back!!
The theatre has been renovated and is beautiful! If you remember the grand, gilt-decorated theaters from the past, be sure to take a look around when you attend an old movie or a live show. The seats are even new, well-spaced, and comfortable.
We recently saw Mary Chapin Carpenter & Shawn Colvin at this beautifully appointed music hall. It was truly a unique experience. The sound of their voices & instruments was so harmonious. I will definetly watch the calendar to see what other concerts are scheduled here.
I've been to the Virginia before and after the renovations. The newly renovated theatre is amazing. The seats are comfortable, there is plenty of leg room. They have been bringing in some really, major acts. They also show classic movies for a really, reasonable price. The sound is good and the picture is clear. Overall, the theatre is gorgeous. I'm so happy that it hasn't fallen into disrepair. Champaign Park District loves their theatre and it shows!
What is not to like about the beautifully restored Virginia Theater! We went to see "The Ghost and Mr. Chicken". It was great seeing it once again on a big screen. I saw it at the drive in when I was growing up and this viewing did not disappoint. The theater was pretty full of other Baby Boomers re-living their childhood. The snacks are a bargain compared to other theaters and the popcorn was good. The only thing I was disappointed about was the regular organist who plays the antique organ which comes out of the floor was sick so we were not treated to prelude of spooky music. This is a great place to bring a family or a date, you can really feel the history here.