Welcome! Save The Ramova (STR) is a community group dedicated to raising public awareness of the architectural and cultural importance of the Ramova Theatre located at 3518 S. Halsted, Chicago Illinois. STR is affiliated with Preservation Chicago.

STR's goals are to collect petition signatures from members of the neighborhood, members of the architectural and cultural preservation communities and to present these signatures to city officials governing the disposition of the city-owned theatre.

Petitions on paper are being distributed around the community. You may sign the petition online.

Background

Plans are underway to remove a substantial amount of the interior architecture of the Ramova Theater as part of a conversion of the building. The mission of our local citizens' group is to advocate for the preservation of the interior details of the Ramova Theater ceiling and walls. STR does not oppose conversion of the Ramova Theater to a non-theater use. However STR opposes removal of ornamental architectural elements of the theater and lobby spaces. These decorative features must be retained and restored. The Moorish balconies and sculptural details of the interior have great importance to the memories of many South Side residents. More importantly, these details must be preserved for the enjoyment of present and future citizens.

STR is a group of community residents committed to the preservation of the Ramova. We ask that city officials work to ensure that the archiectural details of the theatre be preserved and restored. Beginning August 14, 2005, we have circulated a petition in the Bridgeport neighborhood and we have placed an electronic petition online at this website. The signatures collected will be presented to city officials. Signatures and information collected will in no way be used for commercial or marketing purposes. Sign the petition here.

What people are saying...

"Just like the Music Box helped economic development on the north side, the Ramova would help to add a cultural aspect to the redevelopment happening
in Bridgeport."

"I want to save the Ramova because its community importance and architectural details should not be lost."

"As direct neighbors of the Ramova and supporters of the growing Bridgeport arts community we really hope that the Theatre is developed for an artistic purpose that contributes to and expands cultural and historical awareness in our neighborhood.."

Sign our petition today! Save the Ramova!