Northlight Theater Cultivates Community Connections with “Savor Evanston” Ward Gatherings
Northlight Theatre is embarking on a series of community events, “Savor Evanston,” designed to engage residents ward by ward as it prepares for its September reopening. the initiative aims to re-establish the theatre’s roots in Evanston and foster a deeper connection with local audiences.
“Savor Evanston gives residents and neighbors a taste of the vibrant atmosphere Northlight and its supporters will be bringing to downtown Evanston,” explained Kimberly Hoopingarner, the theatre’s director of advancement and its capital campaign director.
the first “Savor Evanston” event, held in December at The Fat Shallot in the Sixth Ward, proved highly triumphant, drawing over 75 attendees despite a snowy evening. Guests mingled and enjoyed the atmosphere, signaling strong local enthusiasm for the theatre’s return.
The next gathering is scheduled for Thursday, jan. 22, from 6-8 p.m. at firehouse Grill, located at 750 Chicago ave. in the Third ward. Tickets,priced at $25,include appetizers and two drinks,along with an opportunity to meet the Northlight team.
This move represents a return to Northlight’s origins. While the theatre has operated at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie since 1997, it was originally founded in Evanston in 1974. The relocation is intended to broaden the theatre’s reach and attract a more diverse audience.
“To attract a younger, more diverse audience, we need to be in a community that is more accessible,” Hoopingarner stated. “There are around 7,000 people who live within a six-block radius of the new theatre, and patrons can hop on a train or take a rideshare more easily.”
The “Savor Evanston” events are designed to be informal and interactive. Attendees can expect a period of mingling followed by brief presentations from the artistic and executive directors, covering current productions, the “Next Act Campaign,” progress updates, and community engagement initiatives. A question-and-answer session will conclude each event.
Northlight’s vision extends beyond simply providing entertainment. The theatre aims to serve the entire Evanston area and become an integral part of the community’s cultural landscape. “Our audience comes from a broad region, and we want to make sure people know this is for all of Evanston,” Hoopingarner emphasized.
Councilmember Shawn Iles (3rd) is expected to attend the Jan. 22 event at Firehouse Grill, and Northlight hopes to engage additional council members in future gatherings. The goal is to foster a dialog and understand the specific needs of each ward.
These events also provide support to local businesses like Firehouse Grill and The Fat Shallot. Upcoming “Savor Evanston” gatherings are planned at ten Mile House, Soul & Smoke, and The Homestead Room at the Graduate hotel, demonstrating a commitment to supporting the local economy.
Beyond the events themselves, Northlight is actively partnering with local nonprofits. In December, attendees where encouraged to bring nonperishable food items for Hillside Pantry. The January event will benefit the Evanston School Children’s Clothing Association, with guests asked to donate warm winter gear for children. Future collaborations include books & Breakfast, Connections for the Homeless, and the Evanston Animal Shelter.
Hoopingarner highlighted the importance of these community connections, noting existing partnerships with Evanston schools and nonprofits. The theatre’s “Arts for Evanston” programme already provides over 2,000 free tickets each season to Evanston residents,breaking down barriers to access.
Northlight envisions a vibrant experience for patrons, extending beyond the performance itself to include dining and socializing in the surrounding downtown area. “We recognize that Evanston is a special place and truly want to be part of the fabric of the community,” Hoopingarner said.
Tickets for the next “Savor Evanston” event on Thursday,Jan. 22, at Firehouse Grill are $25 and can be purchased in advance here.
