Fort Armstrong Theatre, Art Deco theater in Rock Island, United States.
Fort Armstrong Theatre is an Art Deco theater in Rock Island with a terracotta facade adorned with three large Native American heads and spiral columns across its exterior. The building features ornate decorative craftsmanship that distinguishes it among structures from that era.
The theater opened on January 19, 1921, with the silent film Midsummer Madness accompanied by a ten-piece orchestra in downtown Rock Island. It was built as a major entertainment venue during a period when movies and live performances were central to city life.
The building displays decorative elements inspired by Illinois and Native American heritage on its exterior, with these regional references woven throughout the architectural details visible to visitors today.
The venue currently operates as Circa 21 Dinner Playhouse with performances and dining services available to guests. Located at 1826 3rd Avenue, it remains an active performance space in downtown Rock Island.
The auditorium originally held 1,566 seats arranged in five sections separated by four aisles for easy movement. The stage extended approximately 22 feet back, providing ample space for elaborate theatrical productions.
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