Crystal Lake’s Raue Center gains support for next steps in potential East Dundee location

East Dundee trustees are signaling support for a potential satellite location in the village for Crystal Lake’s Raue Center for Performing Arts.

On Monday, the village board approved a resolution backing the next steps — such as fundraising and community engagement sessions — in the process.

The resolution, which “memorializes” the relationship between the theater and the village, does not bind either side to a final plan.

“We are looking forward to continuing the positive momentum to bring a performing arts venue to downtown East Dundee,” Village Administrator Erika Storlie said in an email. “It would be an invaluable asset for the community, our businesses and the region.”

The resolution notes that the “village desires to assist with the creation of a performing arts venue in East Dundee’s downtown district” and that a performing arts center would “enhance the quality of life” for residents and visitors.

In May, representatives of the Raue Center publicly pitched the idea of a satellite location in East Dundee. Theater officials said they envision a 250- to 350-seat theater and potential outdoor performances in the downtown district, which includes the Dundee Depot, a popular spot for the village’s outdoor events.

Storlie noted the village has been exploring a potential partnership with the Raue Center for more than a year.

Last year, the East Dundee closed on a former lumberyard in the downtown district on Railroad Street. The 2-acre property, which the village bought for $800,000, could house a mixed-use development anchored by a performing arts center, officials said.

Representatives with the Raue Center have identified East Dundee as a “top priority” location for potential expansion. The Raue Center has received a grant to expand and bring the arts to other communities.

In May, Raue Center Executive Director Richard Kuranda said the center hopes to open a new theater within four or five years.