I love Genesee Theater! This smaller vintage theater has charm and elegance inside and out. The large chandeliers are gorgeous. The staff scanning tickets and the ushers are warm and welcoming. They were very helpful. All seats offer a great view. The first two rows cause you to loop up at the stage so I would recommend at least a few isles back. The shows they offer are diverse and plentiful. The more popular shows create a bit of traffic. There is street parking and a nearby parking garage. read more

See all

Still Enjoying the Genesee Theatre First of all, we absolutely love seeing concerts at the Genesee. It's a smaller, intimate venue where there really isn't a bad seat in the house. Parking couldn't be easier -- affordable parking is located literally about 50 feet from the entrance and it's only $10, which makes the whole experience even better. We paid under $100 for two Orchestra Row T seats, and since our row was empty, we moved to the middle for a better view. The show featured a full orchestra, lead singer David Jacobson, and two female vocalists. The first half highlighted Neil's softer songs, while the second half brought the energy with his bigger hits. For the price, it was a fun and enjoyable evening. We now attend at least 3 -4 events per year here! read more

The Genesee Theatre is a lovely old facility. Built in 1926 and operated until it was closed in 1989. It sat vacant for decades until it was re-opened in 2004, following a $23 million renovation. We attended the theater on a Sunday night. There was plenty of easy access parking at a reasonable cost. Seats were comfortable and the isle size was generous. The original Barton organ is on display in the balcony entry, along with an explanation of its heritage. And then there was the chandelier...WOW! Bathrooms had plenty of stalls, unusual for woman's bathrooms in theaters. We always seem to be staring in line at other theaters. Little things mean a lot. The concession area/snack bar was well stocked and moved quickly. Another bonus. We truly enjoyed the show, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons "The Last Oncores", but the theatre was especially memorable. read more

See all

It has a nice little snack room where you can get drinks and snacks and it's separate from the lobby area where a lot of theaters have a whole crowd of people on lines looking to buy drinks and snacks before and during intermission but this room is on a separate level with bathrooms and it's a nice view with windows. There's no parking lot but it's on the street. You have to pay the meter which is 50 cents per hour and after 6pm it's free. read more

See all

Beautiful old renovated theater, some shows are better than others but the venue is a grand old venerable lady not to be missed. Staff is sincere and at least some are volunteers. Concessions are pretty good. Watch your step! read more

I am really torn about giving this venue five stars as I don't give them out easily. But in my Yelp soul, I feel I would be doing them a disservice if I didn't. Backstory to this review: The Doctor and I have been together 27 year. We have hit a point where neither of us really needs anything when it comes to gifts. So for Xmas 2023, I was Googling the lastest Kansas album to see if there was one, as he is a HUGE fan from the beginning of the group. What popped up in my search was a promo of their tour at the Genesee Theater, so I got us a VIP deal so we could get photos with the band. I am so glad I did this because while this theater is not in Chicago, I will be keeping my eye out for other acts I would be interested in seeing and would definitely come here. The venue itself is very lovely, with a lot of Baroque style ornamentation and lots of red everywhere. There was a beautiful chandelier in the main lobby that was gorgeous. There was a rather large elevator to accommodate people who need it (wheelchairs and such), but be warned, if you have tickets on the 4th level, you have to walk up from the third level to get there. The staff working as ushers, looked to be senior citizens, but were all very eager to help and assist you in locating your seats. I also noticed that they were attentive to older guests. As this was the 50th anniversary tour for Kansas, there were quite a few older people there, with some being in strollers/wheelchairs or on walkers. The staff was really good in making sure that the got seated properly. Because we had to get to the venue before the show to get our photos with the band, we had some time to kill. The Doctor and I ended up on the second floor lounge for drinks. The service was lovely and the prices were great. There was a drink special for the concert and they were also serving a kir royale. I asked if I could get just bubbles since it was not mentioned on the menu, and the gentleman waiting on us asked if I wanted a single or a double...of course I got the double. It was nice to know that there were lounges on all three main floor to hang out for drinks. While there was no food beyond snacks served in the venue, there was a food truck outside where I saw folks getting food. The venue also had valet parking for $15, but because we got there early, we were able to get street parking for free. The venue itself was very comfortable as far as the seats went. The sound was not too loud and the bathrooms were very clean. Back to the sound, the system used was great as the sound was crystal clear. We had great seats (Row B, 110 and 112), with a clear view of the stage. I would say seats a little beyond that might have issues, but as a buyer, you need to look at the maps before purchasing. Once we got seated, I immediately started scanning the upper sections at those seats and located some seats in the future I would be willing to purchase. While not close to the stage, the view looks like it was amazing. From the photo shoot to meeting the band to the actual concert was a great evening for us, I will definitely be keeping an eye out for other acts and will be looking to hang out at the Genesee Theater. read more

See all

I am writing to express some major concerns over technical issues that occurred on the October 30, 2025 screening of the Talking Heads film "Stop Making Sense" at the Genesee. I drove from Madison, WI (and a friend drove from Racine) that evening to specifically attend this event. It was quite an effort on our part, and the screening was a real disappointment due to technical issues that SHOULD have been prevented and which really hurt the screening. At about 20 minutes into the film (after the first three songs) it sounded like half the theater's sound system went out. The resulting "mix" was muddy and vocals sounded awful. I had seen the film about a year ago after the restoration, and I own it on 4k blu ray. It has pristine sound, so this was a theatrical issue with the Genesee and not the film. Even worse, about five minutes from the end, during the encore number and perhaps the best sequence in the film, the projector lamp turned off. The audience sat in the dark wondering what in the world was going on. It was resolved, but it destroyed the experience of the concert film. Jerry Harrison's Q and A was quite good. Unfortunately, the screening was awful. read more

The Genessee Theatre is a 20th century theatre built in 1927, with vintage decor in a medium sized theatre. We enjoyed a pre-show beverage in the lounge which was very facing the main street with floor to ceiling windows which was a nice way to start the evening. The bathrooms were clean, the theatre seats were comfortable and the ushers were helpful. Parking was very convenient, with valet service, nearby parking lots, garages and plenty of free metered parking spots, if you were lucky to grab one. There were several wheelchair patrons who were assisted and taken to their seats by friendly theatre staff, which was a nice touch. My only disappointment was the show began 30 minutes late. Patrons were allowed to get drinks and roam around the theatre with no hints or notification to be seated, e.g., dimmed lights, a bell, or announcement the show would soon begin, which was a bit disruptive. read more

See all

Saw Dylan there tonight. Definitely expected to see a geriatric performer, which I did. Not a terrible show, but the EXPERIENCE overall was poor. They kept the bar open throughout, beaning there were literally hundreds of people continually up and down going for drinks. Perhaps that was a part of Dylan's contract, or maybe it was the Genesee's greed, but my god, how distracting, if not to the performer, than to the audience. I subscribe to the Marriott, and they do not allow it. I USED to subscribe to the Genesee, and do not recall they allowed it then. Is the Genesee so broke that they cannot forgo the revenues, greatly diminishing the overall experience? read more

This is a beautiful turn of the century live performance theater that went through a multimillion dollar renovation and gorgeous, intimate exciting and acoustically sound. It's a gem. Inexpensive parking. $15 valet, $10 self park garage across the street and free street parking if your early and lucky. Theater opens 1 1/2 hours before the show and offers 3 small bar service lounges. Drinks are not expensive and service is very polite. Seats all have good views and very comfortable. Acoustics and sound system are high caliber. Lots of friendly people...both patrons and staff. Don't miss an opportunity to see a show here. The place is Turkey a gem. read more

See all

I was at the Bob Dylan concert last night so between the ticket prices the drink prices and you want me to pay $30 for valet and or $10 for the garage. I'll tell you I would highly suggest do not do the valet service. I told all my friend to go to the garage for $10 rather than pay $30 or more and it was pretty. It was pretty busy. They could've had a couple more bars or bartenders available but otherwise the concert was decent. It wasn't the greatest. It could've been a lot better.. the ambience it was sold out we got our tickets a couple months ago, but I think the valet service needs to be changed or looked at in a further details. read more

Beautiful wonder on the inside and out. Quiet when no music is playing. Amazing acoustics. Helpful ushers, a nice little bar. Multiple exists for easy access to the street. I had a wonderful time seeing Postmodern Jukebox March 1st, 2024 The seats were comfortable enough for a two hour show. The sound was amazing. Such a fun place. No dancing room between isles. Box office/will call is easy to find. The bar area was nice and clean. They had a couple pre show snack options. read more

See all

We saw country singer Terri Clark perform a great concert for 95 minutes. The theater is beautiful and within a short 0.4 mile walk from the Metra train station as we took a train from downtown Chicago. I highly recommend taking the Metra train roundtrip if you are coming in from Chicago. Their staff is friendly and helpful. The interior is beautiful with spacious, clean, and well laid out bathrooms. The best part is we had front row seats in the Orchestra Left section and I shook Terri's hand at the end of her show!! read more

See all

This was my first time going to a show at this theatre. It was a quick and easy check in to get through the doors. The theatre was decorated beautifully for the holidays with trees, garland and other Christmas themed things. There were so many wonderful friendly people happy to help us to find our seats! The sound was great and the atmosphere was just fun all around! read more

Genesee Theatre - Stage area - Performing Arts Near Me - Waukegan, Illinois

See all

Recently went to the Genesee theater for a comedy show for Jo Koy. I pretty surprised to hear a big name like his coming to little old Waukegan. But what a great experience it was to see him live. The seats were really nice, the sound system was awesome, the performers were great, and the ushers were amazing. I'll have to find another show to go back. read more

Genesee Theatre - Theater seating - Performing Arts Near Me - Waukegan, Illinois

See all

Great variety of shows for all ages. Not a bad seat in the house. The ushers are a great help. A big plus is there is a bar on each floor.

Beautiful venue with great service and wonderful concerts! Please support this gem in northern Lake County.

This gem located in downtown Waukegan hosts so many great acts. You can find street parking but I'd recommend going early or you will have a little ways to walk or opt for valet parking. It's nothing like trying to park in Chicago and the traffic is much better. The building is beautiful on the inside. It's an old building with architecture to match.The chandelier in the lobby is gorgeous. It is small so getting inside and to your seat you tend to squish next to people while trying to get your ticket scanned in or merchandise. They have a small bar area with drinks and concessions on each floor and it's decently priced for theatre prices. I've been able to go see a number of performances ranging from plays to comics to musicals. There is technically no bad seat in the house. The further back you go on the floor there's an incline so you can see over the people in front of you. The balcony above doesn't interfere with your view. read more

Genesee Theatre - the stage and audience - Performing Arts Near Me - Waukegan, Illinois

See all

Great venue and was impressed with the sound system. Will check there more often for events.

I don't know how I never knew this place existed!! I went for a comedy show and really enjoyed this venue. It is small enough where every seat is good, and has an old time theater feel. It reminded me of being at the Chicago Theater! However, it's much easier to get to and park than being in Chicago. There was a parking lot right next to the Waukegan library that had parking for $10. The theater is only a block away from it. We got to the venue early and had a couple drinks and found our seats. This venue will definitely be on my radar for any upcoming shows. read more

Genesee Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Waukegan, Illinois

See all

Came to see Kansas and the singer stayed right back of stage - our view was obstructed by the stacks of speakers essentially it's like watching musicians play to a recording since the singer can't be seen from anyone right center rows 1- 10 and maybe more - ridiculous. Awful experience! Singer can be heard but not seen read more

Genesee Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Waukegan, Illinois

Awesome venue and team! Went and saw the ballet. It ran pretty late, longer than we expected. I was alone with 3 young girls. We ended up leaving before it ended and the venue crew had a security guard walk us to our vehicle. I appreciate the care you took with my girls and I. That was above and beyond in my opinion! Thank you! read more

Genesee Theatre - Entrance - Performing Arts Near Me - Waukegan, Illinois

This is a great old theater. Good sound and opulent, ornate decor. Some seats off to the side are a little obstructed view. The seats are cushy and comfortable. There's a small bar serving wine and beer. There's nearby public parking and valet if you want. I like the Genesee because like a lot of small, older theaters, you feel much closer to the entertainment. read more

Genesee Theatre - View from orchestra row S seat 16. - Performing Arts Near Me - Waukegan, Illinois

Great theater. Easy access. Parking easy and close to theater. Bathrooms are clean. Employees are helpful.

Very unsafe environment for seniors. Steep stairs. No railings. Small seats. No legroom. Everyone in row has to rise and move for someone to enter row. read more

I always love the Genesee Theater! Just went there today and saw the band AMERICA! It is good size theather and the seats are comfortable. The sound was fantastic since it is small enough and so the sound was superb!!! Go there if you see a concert and go to. Oh BTW go to Ed's Bbq. I had the catfish sandwich, my husband had the briskets but that will be on another review! read more

See all

I attended the john Lodge show Saturday March 1. Genesee should not be hosting rock bands. They don't understand how it works. Seats are tiny, I was next a much older couple. I am 60, so them, much older. Anyway, I was enjoying the show, very enthusiastic. For gods sakes, it's a rock show. John Lodge even gave me a wave and a smile, he appreciated my getting into it. Gemini dream is a rock song. I am up and getting into it, the rest of the crowd is mostly stone faced and motionless. I adjusted my coat under the seat, not sure if that was the issue if it touched her, because I moved away for more room anyway but woman next to me says "stop touching her" I assured her I would never want to touch her. Her husband says you can't talk to her like that. But I am supposed to deal with her rudeness. Within seconds, security and three cops come to remove me, no questions asked, no reason why. Only comment was I should just do what everyone else is doing, which meant sit stoned face like I had already passed. Sorry, it's' a rock show. Anyway, 3 cop cars outside, bunch of guys to remove me over karen. No explanation as to why I was removed. Had to be a Uline couple or a sponsor because you don't get that kind of response in 3 minutes over nothing. Because I sure would never want to touch her. Managements response was pathetic, police response was cowardly. Management has still not returned my calls. I need a refund. I did what you do at a rock show. I was removed for that. If you want to go to the Genesee theater, do it to go see the Wiggles. read more

Genesee Theatre - This is what I was wearing, John Lodge signed years ago. - Performing Arts Near Me - Waukegan, Illinois

We went to see Elle King tonight, we've always liked the Genesee Theatre. The staff is all great, the staff taking your tickets are warm and friendly, always helpful. The bar staff and ushers are always great. All and all a top notch facility and staff. We've seen several shows here, mostly comedians. The Elle King show was great, she had some small kids 3 & 4 maybe, up on the stage for one of the songs, she was great with them. Her songs and ability to play so many instruments was great. The only negative comment I have is we saw Cheap Trick and now Elle and both times the music drowned out the voice. I don't know anything about how all that works, but it seemed like they needed to turn down the music, especially the bass and turn up the singers microphone. Again, the performers were great, the content was great, but something with the audio makes it hard to enjoy the shows. The audio with the comedians had no issues. read more

There is truly nothing like going to a show at an immaculate, grand, and historical theatre like the Genesee. I have seen quite a few famous musicians play intimate shows here, in addition to musicals, ballets, etc. The lobby is spectacular with a masterpiece of a chandelier, and there's not one bad view in the house. I wholeheartedly appreciate the work that's been done to preserve this special place. read more

See all

My wife and I have seen performances at the Genesee Theatre twice now. The theater itself is elegant and beautiful. Capacity is small enough that you never feel too far away from the show. There are two cocktail bars with limited seating. We were happy to see they have a cloak room, and we checked in our winter coats. Valet parking was reasonably priced, and the service was prompt. We will be happy to visit this venue again, and would be proud to bring friends. read more

Wow, my wife and I had a blast at the Andy Grammer concert! Would love to see Genesee Theatre book some more musicians with his style! It was a fantastic show and the ambiance was outstanding! Inexpensive, easy to get to, easy to park...it was a great experience and I look forward to going back in the future if they have performers I like! read more

We came to see 98 degrees in concert. It was so exciting!! 98 degrees concert was so much fun and very enjoyable!!! The venue is beautiful well taken care of and clean, so were the bathrooms. Upon entry there was a big Christmas tree and huge chandler. They do not allow outside food or drinks and offer cocktails, beer, and wine. The staff was nice, kind, and helped us find our seats. The stage wasn't far from where we sat and it wasn't that big. The sound quality was great. There was a second floor balcony as well. It kinda made it difficult to see when everyone stood up due to me being short and the person in front of us being tall hard to see around him. Overall I like feel of Genesee theater and its beautiful atmosphere. read more

See all

Very accommodating staff.....I was on crutches and 1 staff member walked in front of me and one behind me to help me to my 4th row seats that I won to see the curque holiday spectacular which was amazing! There was a story along with acrobats, muscle men, singing, an orchestra, and dancing! The theater was big with floor seating and 2nd level balcony seating. Stage is big. Staff everywhere to help out. Covid friendly in that masks must be worn at all times. You can only pull your mask down to take a sip of your drink. There are 2 lounge areas where you can buy drinks or sit at a high bar table. There are also packaged chips and candy to buy. It was $9 for a mixed drink. They put the drinks in a plastic capped cup which is nice to prevent glass from breaking and prevent spills... smart! Overall, I would recommend this theater. Great show, great seating, good drinks, friendly staff, clean and covid friendly! read more

I attended a wedding for the first time in this theatre. It was PHENOMENAL! The stage was used for ceremony, lobby and bars for cocktail hour. The most impressive part was the "theatrics" leading to dinner. We were ushered back into theatre BY USHERS! One gave a tiny speech thanking us for coming & using the venue. He said " bon appetit" , curtains parted & oh my...... glorious! Stunning! Beautiful! Each table was fabulous. I felt honored just to be on the stage where i had seen so many movies/plays/comedians/ bands. I cant recommend this venue highly enough. If you need a place for a party/wedding/anything that requires a venue... 5stars! read more

Genesee Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Waukegan, Illinois

See all

A convenient, local venue that is OK, if you prefer to stand and flail your arms during a musical performance. I was surprised to see what another reviewer wrote. complaining that they were annoyed with ushers who prevented them from having fun by asking them to sit down. I, for one, prefer to sit during a performance. At the three shows that I attended, if I didn't stand up, I would only have been able to view a bunch of, not very attractive, gyrating "backsides." And . . . When one of those drunk spectators was extraordinarily flatulent . . . Well, you can imagine. All in all, we mostly enjoyed the convenience of the location and ability to see some good entertainment. Just know up front what you will likely have to stand to be able to see the stage.. read more

Great size theater for smaller venues and valet parking available. Would go back and next time try out eateries surrounding theatre.

This Theater is Beautiful. Every show I've seen here has been incredible. Olivia Newton John, Richard Marx, 7th Heaven and Charles Esten just to name a few. From the Private Rooms to the Beautiful Bar Area/ Lounge, The Gorgeous Chandelier and Exceptional Service this Theater is everything you could ever ask for and more. I am so very thankful that they Restored this Beauty. It truly is a hidden gem and a Waukegan Staple with so much history. May they continue to be prosperous. read more

See all

You don't have to be a movie mavin to appreciate the Classic Films at the Genesee series. For starters the admission is only $6 and half that if you are a student, senior or can show military ID. The snack bar has the usual fare but also has beer and wine for reasonable prices. When was the last time you watched a movie with a glass of wine? Another plus is that the balcony at the Genesee is open for patrons to enjoy; what a treat to be able to experience a balcony view of a motion picture. Few theaters have balconies these days and the ones that do generally have them closed because of liability concerns. Most of the films start with period correct newsreels, cartoons and "coming attractions"; it's almost like being at a showing of the film when it was a first run. There are some blockbuster films included in the 2009 Classic Films series so why not pick one out for a night of great entertainment. read more

Saw Culture Club on a Goldstar deal of which I cannot say enough good things about. The will call pick up was easy peezy. The traffic flow inside the venue was awkward to say the least. The merch was setup in front of the main entrance doors which created a jam right off the bat. Headed over to the Jack Benny lounge near will call and it is complete chaos, people standing around, criss cross traffic, people standing in doorways and preventing others from passing through. Once you make it to Jack Benny lounge you are good. The bar was not as crowded. Beers were reasonable and they actually had a few drink specials for the ladies that was much appreciated. Credit is taken at the bar which is always a good thing. The bar snacks leave something to be desired. No nuts. The bathrooms are well maintained and clean but in random odd spots around the venue. Not sure what the impetus was but It was obvious that Genessee stepped up it's booking game in 2016 with many big name acts. I would love to see Genessee offer season ticket packages in the near future. The folks helping people find their seats were actually extremely helpful and friendly. The theater itself is wonderful, although I did note it was a little on the chilly side. The crowd for Culture Club was a wonderfully mixed and diverse crowd in every way you can imagine and I was also impressed at how everyone stood for most of the show and danced and sang, it was really good to see people enjoying themselves. read more

See all

A beautiful theatre with caring helpful staff. From the moment you arrive they make you feel like you really belong there. Shows are super fun can't wait to go back. read more