Ravinia Festival in Highland Park announced plans for a major renovation of the Martin Theatre, supported by a $38 million gift from the Negaunee Foundation—the largest donation in Ravinia’s history. The announcement came on Wednesday, with a construction timeline set to begin in October after the conclusion of the 2026 season.
The Martin Theatre, the only original building remaining from Ravinia’s 1904 opening, is situated just inside the park’s main gate. This project marks the fourth renovation in the venue’s history, aiming to enhance the facility significantly while preserving its historic Arts and Crafts design elements. Notable features like the theater’s stained glass windows, which inspired Ravinia’s logo and the acoustic shell of the recently renovated Hunter Pavilion, will be retained.
Ravinia President and CEO Jeffrey Haydon outlined that this renovation is part of a broader "Setting the Stages" campaign leading up to the festival’s 125th anniversary in 2029. Two other stages have already undergone updates: the Sandra K. Crown Theater was converted for live music performances in 2025, and the Hunter Pavilion completed a $70 million renovation this summer. According to Haydon, architect Michael Barnes—who oversaw the Hunter Pavilion upgrade and designed several of Ravinia’s recent features—will lead the Martin Theatre renovation to maintain its historic character while introducing modern amenities.
The renovation work will be carried out in two phases with a pause for the 2027 summer performance season, and is expected to be finished by July 2028. Upgrades will cover all areas of the venue, including the stage, production, and backstage facilities. Key improvements will include a new mobile acoustic shell, updated lighting and rigging systems, expanded and modernized dressing rooms, and new technical spaces. The seating will be reconfigured for greater comfort, featuring increased row depth, a cross-aisle, and additional box seats. Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems will be overhauled, restrooms upgraded, and the building’s exterior repaired.
The Negaunee Foundation’s president, Richard Colburn, expressed the foundation’s commitment to preserving the theater’s historic significance for future generations. The renovation will also involve the removal of the Festival Shop, previously attached to the theater’s east facade.
The Martin Theatre—originally named Ravinia Theatre—opened on August 15, 1904, with a performance of the play “Vivian’s Papas.” Designed by architect Peter Weber, it initially seated about 1,000 people and featured a pipe organ, Tiffany-style fixtures, and hand-stenciled floral ceiling designs. After closing as a performance venue in 1915 for over four decades, it was restored in 1957 and renamed in 1960 in honor of former Chairman Howell W. Murray. Subsequent renovations in the mid-1970s and 1992 helped adapt the venue for a range of performing arts, culminating in its rededication for small-ensemble performances. The theater was renamed the Martin Theatre in 1995 to honor Ravinia supporter Eloise Martin and is currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places as well as recognized as a Highland Park Historic Landmark.
Following the completion of the Martin Theatre project, Ravinia’s "Setting the Stages" campaign will focus on renovating the outdoor Carousel Stage and updating Bennett Gordon Hall.