September 17, 2026
As an older facility with a lot of history, Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center is a bit of a “throwback itself.”
That’s according to Lany Haupert, Cultural Arts Manager at Palatine Park District, who was referring to the new Fall Flicks Throwback Movie Series coming to Cutting Hall this fall.
The series will feature movies on four Fridays in October, beginning with E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial on Friday, October 2. Screenings begin at 6pm and are rated PG with one exception. On Friday, October 23, audiences can be at the edge of their seats for the thriller classic The Shining, which is Rated R and intended for audiences ages 18 and older. The screening begins at 9pm.
“We thought that having some older, classic movies just fit the ambiance that Cutting Hall naturally has,” Haupert said. “And who doesn’t love going back and watching their old favorite movie?”
Haupert explained that the movie selections came from a staff poll.
“A list of about 15-20 different “throwback” movies was sent to our staff, which spans generations, so we were hoping to get a little of something for everyone, and we think our selection did just that.”
Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center offers affordable live entertainment, as well as opportunities for the community to share their talents in the performing arts.
A New Opportunity for Senior Performers
Another new offering this fall is an “over 50” theatre production of Guys and Dolls Sr., debuting Friday, November 13, at 6:30pm. Additional performances are scheduled for Saturday, November 14, at 2pm and Sunday, November 15, at 2pm.
“We do shows with a cast of only youth actors all the time, so when Music Theatre International (MTI), who we license many shows from, released their Broadway Senior collection of shows just for performers ages 50+, we thought it seemed like a lot of fun to try something new,” Haupert said. “And man, we were blown away by the amount of interest and talent!”
The production has also provided an opportunity for the Cutting Hall staff to experience a different dynamic.
“It’s been interesting to flip the roles we typically have, where adult staff are helping direct youth, but with this show, our staff of 20- and 30-somethings are directing those ages 50+,” Haupert said.
MTI’s senior adaptations are designed with performers in mind, including slower pacing for songs, adjusted musical keys, enlarged scripts, and a shortened running time.
“What we have found, with this cast is that most of these accommodations aren’t really necessary,” said Lisa Swan, Cultural Arts Coordinator. “There is a lot of energy and experience with this cast, and they are a lot of fun!
Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center was built in 1928 as part of the original Palatine High School and is named after the first principal, Mr. Charles S. Cutting. It seats 431 people.
Volunteer and Get Involved
For those who love the excitement of theatre but aren’t quite ready to take the stage, volunteer opportunities are also available.
“Right now, we are really relying on volunteer ushers to help us take tickets, seat guests, and direct them to concessions and bathrooms,” Haupert said. “The biggest perk might be that if we have extra seats available, our volunteers can often see the show for free!”
So if it’s been a while since you’ve visited Cutting Hall, or you haven’t made it in yet, this fall offers plenty of reasons to stop by.
From throwback films to live theatre, Cutting Hall continues to offer something for audiences and performers alike.
Welcome in!
