Journal Reporter

An estimated 350 to 400 people attended the Des Plaines Theater Preservation Society's kick-off event last weekend.

The society held the open house at the downtown Miner Street theater to publicize its restoration efforts and new programming in the facility.

Society President Doug Bean said he was impressed with the number of volunteers that signed on over the weekend, which included carpet-layers, audio-visual technicians and artists.

"We got a lot of business cards," Bean said. Notable residents that attended the event included Mayor Tony Arredia, State Sen. Susan Garrett (D-29th) and State Rep. Elaine Nekritz (D-57th).

The society's restoration of the marquee is nearly finished, and the organization is looking to purchase new light bulbs and neon for the sign. The society's next phase of restoration includes work on the stage, the decorations and the interior lighting. Bean said society members will sit down with the theater owners this week to discuss the renovation plans.

"We've already come a long way," Bean said.

Owners Dhitu, Dharmesh and Ashwin Bhagwakar bought the theater last year, and have so far displayed only Indian Bollywood films in the theater. Due to a recent agreement between the society and the Bhagwakars, the society will soon sponsor a variety of entertainment including American movies, musicians and live theater.

Bean said the group will soon announce this month's programming, with plans to present at least one movie per week.

"We have a lot of irons in the fire," Bean said. "We have something very fun to announce very soon."

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