The Arts
These days it is pretty rare to see historic theatres that are still standing, but the City of Sycamore has one to proudly call their own at 420 W. State Street—the Sycamore State Theatre. Newly remodeled, this slice of history has provided family entertainment generations through.
The theatre has seen a good deal of change since its glorious beginnings in the winter of 1925 when it first opened its doors as the Fargo Theatre. Those were the days of live performances and silent film, and a local newspaper, the Sycamore True Republican reported over 2,500 people attended the theatre on the first day it was open. People came from miles around to see the playhouse, which featured crystal chandeliers, a white marble-lined lobby and an enormous 850-seat auditorium.
There were three performances on that opening day—one afternoon performance and two in the evening—it was a grand affair. Remarks were made by the person who was responsible for erecting the building, Mr. H.B. Fargo of Geneva, as well as the president of the Sycamore Chamber of Commerce.
Time passed and the theatre changed hands. Along with the new ownership came a name change and it was then called the State Theatre. Although entertainment was still the main focus, it began to serve in a new way that reflected the times; that of a community gathering place to see the newsreels of the war.
The building would then shift its function entirely and serve as a church in the community for 17 years before the current owners bought it and returned it to its original use. Sycamore residents Kenly and Daryl Hopper purchased the property and Mrs. Hopper has managed it ever since.
These days the property is known as the Sycamore State Theatre, and the three-screen, historic building still retains the grand marquee from its days as the State Theatre. The interior has been updated and renovated.
The Hoppers not only believe in presenting great entertainment for the community to enjoy, but they also give back as well. “I try to do one fundraiser a quarter,” says Mrs. Hopper. Some of the non-profit groups that have benefited from the theatre’s generousity include the local animal shelter, local firefighters, The March of Dimes and the American Red Cross. Each year, June brings the annual “Ladies Night Out” fundraiser where money is raised for breast cancer. “I sell tickets for two dollars apiece and the proceeds go to the non-profit group,” Mrs. Hopper says.
The Sycamore State Theatre is a building with a fascinating history that reflects the times it has seen. Although it has served in a variety of ways, it has always been a gathering place for the residents of Sycamore, and has become an important piece of the city’s history. The Hoppers have seen to it that the theatre helps support the community, and there is little doubt that people in this city will be seeing movies there for a long time to come.
For movie times or for more information on the theatre, call (815) 895-2301.
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