BAMtheatre celebrates 25th anniversary with grand opening at new Westmont home
Opening weekend festivities set for May 30-31
BAMtheatre, a leading educational theater organization based in the western suburbs of Chicago, recently acquired its first permanent home at 520 N. Cass Ave. in Westmont, just in time for its 25th anniversary.
Founded in 2001 by Artistic Director Melanie Lamoureux, BAMtheatre has grown from a backyard project into a thriving creative community that engages nearly 3,000 students annually. This new 15,000-square-foot facility will serve as a center for BAM’s productions, classes, and private instruction, while also becoming a gathering place for students, families, and artists.
“This is a monumental moment for BAMtheatre,” Lamoureux said. “Our new building will allow us to expand our programming, deepen our connections with the community, and continue to inspire the next generation of performers.”
On Friday and Saturday, May 30-31, BAMtheatre will unveil its new facility and celebrate 25 years of transformative arts education with a weekend full of community, celebration, and unforgettable moments.
From 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, there will be the ribbon-cutting ceremony, guided building tours, food trucks and drinks available for purchase, games, and outdoor activities for all ages. You also can purchase exclusive BAM Block Party T-shirts. RSVP for the free, all-ages block party via www.bamtheatre.com/new-building.
On Saturday, the grand opening gala at 6 p.m. will feature a formal concert featuring BAM staff and alumni; premium open bar & passed hors d’oeuvres and decadent desserts; unveiling of BAM’s commemorative seat pledges; private building tours; dancing; and a performance by Dueling Pianos. Tickets for this age 21-or-older black-tie event are $150, available via www.bamtheatre.com/new-building.
Celebrate with them as they toast to BAMtheatre’s future and honor the legacy of the past 25 years.
A hub for arts and community
BAMtheatre’s new building will house:
• A 200-seat auditorium — A state-of-the-art performance space for showcasing BAM’s talented performers, and other groups to perform.
• Professional dance studio — Equipped with a sprung floor and mirrored walls, this space will host dance, acting, and performance rehearsals.
• Rehearsal and event spaces — Versatile rooms for classes, rehearsals, and community events.
• Private music studios — Featuring pianos for individualized instruction.
• Costume and scene shop — Dedicated space for designing and crafting costumes and sets.
Beyond its traditional programming, BAMtheatre envisions the space as a true community hub, offering workshops, events, and educational opportunities for individuals of all ages.
Looking back, looking ahead
Over the past 25 years, BAMtheatre has built a reputation for excellence, collaborating with more than 30 schools and developing acclaimed productions and training programs.
“We’re so grateful to everyone who has supported us through the years,” Lamoureux said. “This permanent home is a dream come true, and we can’t wait to create new memories here.”
For more information, visit bamtheatre.com or contact info@bamtheatre.com.