Quincy Jones, Jennifer Hudson and Chance the Rapper are co-owners of the historic Chicago theater

CHICAGO– Iconic music producer Quincy Jones and entertainers Jennifer Hudson and Chance the Rapper are now co-owners of the historic Ramova Theater on Chicago’s South Side.

According to the Chicago Sun-Times, their ownership was revealed on Wednesday.

The Ramova has been closed for almost four decades. Developer and co-owner Tyler Nevius bought the property and an adjacent parcel from the city in 2017 for $1, the newspaper reported.

Jones, Hudson and Chance the Rapper, whose real name is Chancellor Bennett, are originally from Chicago.

“My mother always taught us to take care of family first, so supporting the rehabilitation of this extraordinary theater with such a rich history in Chicago means more to me than you can imagine,” Hudson said.

Bennett says, “Chicago will always be a part” of who he is.

“I joined the Ramova team to give back to the city that has given me so much and to provide a stage to showcase the incredible talent that Chicago has to offer,” he said.

The Ramova opened in 1929 as a single-screen movie palace. It was closed in 1985 and was spared demolition. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2021.

When it reopens, the renovated theater will feature a 1,500-seat live music venue and a beer garden and grill. No opening date has been announced.

New York-based Other Half Brewing is also a partner in the venture.

“With Ramova, I see a future where Chicago’s rich cultural heritage shines even brighter alongside the country’s most talented artists, inspiring future generations to come and bring glory to America’s Second City,” said Jones.