The Orpheum building, formerly home to the Orpheum Children’s Science Museum, is being restored by Chicago preservationist Christopher Enck. If that name sounds familiar, it’s because he tried to save the Burnham Mansion from demolition in 2018, with a plan to move it to a new location. That plan ultimately fell through.
Now, Enck is restoring the Orpheum Theater, with the goal of it becoming a space for weddings, performances, and events. He’s documenting his progress on Instagram, so follow to see how it all develops. It’s great to see something happening there!
Top photo from Orpheum Champaign Instagram.