Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center

Cutting Hall is a unique facility owned and operated by the Palatine Park District. Cutting Hall serves the arts and entertainment needs of area residents in the northwest suburbs as one of the few performing arts centers owned by a local recreation agency in the state of Illinois.

The theatre has been an integral part of the arts environment in Palatine since it was built in 1928 as part of the original Palatine High School. The auditorium is named after the first principal, Mr. Charles S. Cutting. A prominent portrait of Mr. Cutting can be seen in the inner lobby between the two entrances to the theatre.

When the curtains first opened on the Cutting Hall stage on September 15, 1928, the theatre’s appearance was similar to today. The cross work of the beams were hand decorated by Gustav Bandt, one of four artists in the world who did this type of work. The tiffany lamps which hang from the six pillars that support the auditorium area originally used gas as their power source, and the stage curtain displayed the PHS monogram on a purple and gold drape.

School District 211 closed the building when they moved the high school to a new, larger facility in 1977. Grassroots efforts from area residents began a drive in hopes of saving the old high school building to use as a community center. Cutting Hall became a major aspect of this drive and, in the end this section of the building became a free-standing facility through renovations undertaken by the Palatine Park District.

The intentions of the Park District were to restore and preserve Cutting Hall so that area residents would have the opportunity to enjoy and participate in community as well as professional productions. Additional renovations included a lobby with a box office and alterations of additional existing classrooms. These classrooms were redesigned to be used as a scene shop, dressing rooms, and a large rehearsal area.

The Palatine Park District is proud to offer this lively example of the rich heritage found in our area. We sincerely hope you enjoy the quality programs presented at the Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center.