Chicago Oriental Theatre
This silent film palace was designed by Chicago architects Cornelius W. and George L. Rapp. The interior featured a lavish decor inspired by Eastern art and architecture. It served faithfully for 55 years until the failing fortunes of downtown Chicago and large film houses in general forced its closing in 1981. After a 15-year period of dormancy and a threat of demolition, the facility was restored as a live theatrical venue in a joint project by Livent Inc. and the City, with a reopening on October 18, 1998. (reference)