A unique Labor Day weekend celebration unfolded in St. Charles as the iconic Arcada Theatre marked its 100th anniversary with a grand event. Owners organized a parade, and special guests Chubby Checker and Priscilla Presley attended the festivities.
According to the Arcada’s press release, since opening on September 6, 1926, the venue has hosted various events, from silent films to national touring shows. The weekend’s celebration added a new chapter to its rich history. The day started with Priscilla Presley’s meet-and-greet session at the theater’s Studio 64.
The Arcada Centennial Parade began at 1 p.m., moving from Sixth Street on the Fox River’s west side to the theater at 105 E. Main St. The day included a ‘History of Rock ‘N Roll Concert’ at 6 p.m., featuring musicians from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s.
Arcada President and CEO Ron Onesti distributed ‘Arcada Theatre Legacy Awards’ to bands with a long-standing history at the venue. Onesti remarked, “The celebration was a year in the making. We aimed for an event that reflects the theater’s history and rock-n-roll culture. This is more than a parade; it’s a chance for everyone to join in through a street dance.”
“What better way to engage everyone than ‘The Twist’? Chubby Checker agreed to come, making this event even more special. The goal was to surpass the Guinness World Record for the biggest ‘Twist’ dance, aiming for over 3,000 participants.”
Cheryl Szaravajka from Vernon Hills joined the impressive crowd, eager to participate in the record-breaking dance.
“The song, ‘The Twist,’ is a classic. It’s fun and brings everyone together. Today, we witness history,” Szaravajka shared.
Ron Onesti took photos of Chubby Checker, known for ‘The Twist,’ as thousands gathered for an attempt at a new world record. Laurie Milbourn, a lifelong resident of St. Charles, emphasized the Arcada Theatre’s cultural significance.
“It’s the heart of St. Charles, attracting many people,” Milbourn noted.
Chubby Checker, 84, and Priscilla Presley, 81, shared their views on the importance of venues like the Arcada.
“These theaters are our past and future,” Checker remarked on the Arcada’s milestone. “We have a century behind us and another ahead.” Presley agreed, emphasizing their role in uniting communities. “We need more of this. These theaters bring people together, which is essential.”
David Sharos contributed reporting for The Beacon-News.
Leave a Reply