Beyond opening a center for human potential, I envision The Life Center with member-based programs in neighborhood centers throughout the Chicago and suburbs. Each will be self-contained and autonomous in each community, with resources and an environment for creating thriving humans and an optimal community, together moving toward an optimal world.
The Uptown Theater
As a componant of this vision, for sometime now I've engaged in developing and actualizing a plan to give the 81-year old Uptown Theater at Lawrence and Broadway, new life (on Chicago's North side). I envision a combination of old uses, (film, live shows, even radio broadcasting), rolled together with dozens of activities and attractions never done in a theater of any kind.
The Uptown, probably America's foremost remaining movie palace from the '20's, has been asleep, out of regular use since it closed in disrepair in 1981. It's had two ownerships since, and except for occasional private events has not been active. One ownership ended in sale for taxes in the early '90s and the most recent owner a real estate trust, embroiled in a two-year forced bankruptsy proceeding, is enroute to foreclosure. At that point I aim to acquire it.
To do this, according to my plan, would require community support, involving ordinary folks and some unconventional finance approaches. Using aggressive and creative approaches, existing stakeholders---those who would benefit from its comeback---will provide the resources both monetary and non-monetary.
To bring a new dynamic combination of cultural offerings to a georgeous architectural gem, large enough to accomodate multiple activities at one time and all day and all night, requires the collaborative, creative participation of many unconventional and adventurous and talented souls of all ages.
This plan could easily include a center for human potential, previously described, and a prototype of The Life Center.
Who are the stakeholders, that can make a difference in the creation of this delicious possibility?
Those who love...Culture, Uptown, architectural gems, old theaters, the Uptown Square Plaza (with The Riviera Theater, Greenmill Lounge from the pre-'20s, The Aragon Ballroom, The 12-story bank building, Border's in the newly restored former department store.)...those who love film, theater, live music, showbiz,the arts...and those who'd love to bring back the cultural leadership of Uptown from the '20s. Also, those who'd love a 24 hour place to hang out (see the Third Place), to have conversatioins, to snack, to do creative projects any time. And don't forget, a place to showcase any kind of talent.
I am ready, able, willing and eager to make this happen. I have an exciting plan, never done before, that can revolutionize culture, and serve as a model to save such theaters, hundreds of them all over the country.
I can do it. I can't of course do it alone. It will take the small, medium and large actions of 100s, 1000s of supporters. Are you with me or am I by myself? It won't take large amounts from a small number, instead varying amounts from very many. You can e-mail me at drtalsky@thewowcenter