NW Illinois News

Bradley Fritts, a representative for Illinois' 74th State House District, commended Dixon for its renovation of the historic theater, describing it as "an excellent job" in a Facebook post on March 4. The theater has been a key feature of downtown Dixon for nearly 103 years.

"Congratulations to the Dixon Historic Theater on your grand re-opening," said Fritts, State Representative, according to Facebook. "They did an excellent job renovating this historic theater that has been a cornerstone of Downtown Dixon for almost 103 years. Looking forward to seeing this theater thrive for generations to come!"

Renovations to the Dixon Historic Theater commenced on October 1, 2024. The $1.5 million restoration project is slated for completion by March 2025. According to Yahoo News, the funding includes a $1.2 million federal grant and $300,000 in matching funds. The project involves lifting the roof into place with a crane after crews removed mortar and replaced damaged bricks. Additional work includes structural repairs, removal of lead-based materials, repainting with the original red and blue color scheme, bathroom renovations, and sewage drain repairs near an adjacent statue.

Screenshot of State Representative Bradley Fritts' March 4 Facebook post | State Representative Bradley Fritts' Facebook page

The Historic Dixon Theater Group acquired ownership of the theater in 2019. The theater's origins trace back to 1920 when Leonard G. Rorer purchased the site of the former Dixon Opera House. The Dixon Theatre opened in 1922 at a cost of $200,000 and was built using fireproof materials such as terracotta, concrete, steel, and terrazzo. It closed in 1984 but reopened in October 1985 under new management before being taken over by the Historic Dixon Theater Group.

Fritts is serving as State Representative for District 74 since January 2023. A lifelong resident of Illinois, he also works as a substitute teacher and farms with his family when not in Springfield. He holds a bachelor's degree in agricultural and consumer economics from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.