20-Jan-17 – Goodman Theatre’s new marquee made its debut Thursday evening, performing brilliantly for an audience gathered on Dearborn Street.

It is brighter and more energy-efficient than the sign that was destroyed by fire last May and it will stay lit 24/7.

“As we celebrate the relighting of our iconic marquee and sign we recognize the metaphoric significance and importance of the marquee,” said artistic director Robert Falls. “It’s a beacon which draws audiences and artists throughout the darkness to illumination.”

The sign has not changed in size. It is still 56 feet tall, reaching a height above ground of 73 feet.

Built by Landmark Sign Group, the new state-of-the-art LED sign is programmable and each letter can change color. It will hang on the original steel frame that has been in front of the Goodman since 2000.

On May 28, 2016, at about 5:00 a.m., an electrical fire irreparably damaged the old sign but did not spread into the building, which was unoccupied at the time. There were no injuries and Chicago Fire Department had the fire out by 5:30 a.m. Three performances that day went on as scheduled.

Theaters unite nationwide to resist intolerance

The lighting ceremony was part of “The Ghostlight Project,” the name referring to a bare bulb on a stand that by theater tradition is rolled on stage after a performance to provide modest illumination for technicians. At 700 theaters in 50 states, people gathered to “create a light for dark times ahead,” with the date of the event chosen because it is the eve of the presidential inauguration.

“We all take this moment to renew our pledge to these following ideals,” said Falls (right). “That our theater is a place where it’s safe to be who you are, regardless of race, class, religion, country of origin, immigration status, disability, gender identity, or sexual orientation. That diverse opinions, dissent, and argument are not only tolerated but invited. That active listening and courageous exchange are fundamental values.”

In Chicago, 25 theaters participated in the event, including Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Harris Theater, Lookingglass Theatre Company, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, and The Second City.