2026 is shaping up to be a great year for Midwestern moviegoers. The Music Box Theatre, Chicago’s iconic movie palace that has been entertaining the Windy City since 1929, has announced major expansion plans. These plans include expanding its own facilities and taking stewardship of another historic cinema, Minneapolis’ The Heights Theater.
The Heights Theater opened in 1926 and has been a beloved fixture of Minneapolis ever since. Known for traditions such as its annual Celebration of Cinema festival and its Christmas and New Year’s Day screenings of classics like *White Christmas* and *Holiday Inn*, The Heights holds a special place in the hearts of local movie enthusiasts.
Starting in 2026, The Music Box Theatre’s longtime owners—Brody Sheldon and the Schopf family—will take over the operations of The Heights following a brief transition period. The Heights will close temporarily beginning January 2nd as it transitions to new ownership and is set to reopen on Friday, January 9th, with Jim Jarmusch’s film *Father Mother Sister Brother*.
Under the new management, The Heights’ programming slate will be expanded to include late-night screenings on Fridays and Saturdays, children’s matinees, and regular silent film showings featuring live organ accompaniment throughout 2026.
“The Heights has always been about celebrating great films with great people,” said outgoing Heights owner Tom Letness, who has operated the theater for 27 years. “I’m thrilled to pass it on to Music Box Theatre, whose passion for cinema and commitment to presentation match what I’ve built here.”
“We’re honored to continue the legacy Tom cultivated,” added Music Box general manager Ryan Oestreich. “The Heights is a sacred space for discovery, laughter, and community, and we’re excited to expand its programming while preserving everything audiences love.”
In addition to taking on The Heights, The Music Box Theatre will begin renovations in summer 2026 to add a third auditorium seating 100 guests. The historic venue currently features its original 700-seat theater and a second, 70-seat auditorium that opened in 1991 and was renovated in 2013.
With these exciting developments, both The Music Box and The Heights promise to enrich the region’s cinematic culture for years to come.
https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/music-box-theatre-expands-acquires-heights-theater-1235164347/
