Cutting Hall marks namesake's birthday with March 1 open house

The Palatine Park District will mark the 160th anniversary of the birth of Charles Cutting, namesake of the Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center, this Saturday with an open house at the historic theater.

The event, which is free and open to the public, takes place from 2 to 4 p.m. at the theater, 150 E. Wood Street in Palatine. The open house will highlight recent renovations to the theater and guided tours will be available.

In addition, local theater and performance groups will be on hand to answer questions and distribute information about upcoming shows and performance opportunities. Light refreshments will be served, including a birthday cake, and door prizes will be awarded. Entry into the drawing is free.

The theater 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, who was born in Highgate Springs, Vt. on March 1, 1854