Vic Theatre   

3145 N Sheffield Ave
Chicago, IL 60657
773-472-0366
www.victheatre.com/

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The Vic is old. But unlike some of the older clubs in town, like the Arie Crown Theatre, The Vic has stood the test of time. Acoustics are solid, and the the club's interior, featuring original ornate wall sculptures and Italian marble staircases and lobby floor, is well maintained. The Vic opened in 1912 as the Victoria Theatre -- a five-story vaudeville house. The surroundings make for a comfortable show. Seats are cozy and there are multiple places to take a show in, like the balcony. But like any other venue, things get a little stuffy when it is sold out (it holds 1,000 to 1,400 people).The Vic is open every night of the week, and it usually has some sort of live show. The booking policy is diverse (Ministry, Pavement, Dennis Miller, Youssou N'Dour), but it does tend toward national acts and regional favorites.When the theater isn't hosting a show, it transforms into a cinema. The Brew & View nights are quite popular, as fans down cheap beer and sing/talk along with old favs like 'Grease' and 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show.' Most movies are second-run or cult classics. TIP:Forget parking, take a cab or the L. -- Patrick Delahunty, Des Martini