If Barrington’s historic Catlow Theater has lapsed into hibernation, it is poised to rise from its slumber in a big way, if Brian Long and his family have their way.
Standing in the lobby of the nearly century-old cinema recently, Long is the very picture of a proud new owner.
He and his wife, Julianne, bought the theater Oct. 20 from longtime owner Tim O’Connor. They’re enchanted by the 1927-vintage movie house’s history and are brimming with enthusiasm about its possibilities.
“Most people have never seen the real Catlow,” said Brian Long, who also owns Long & Co. Jewelers a short walk away in downtown Barrington. “So our goal is to bring it back to the original, which will actually improve it, and people will have a new experience here.”
Long harbors a special interest in the theater’s architect, Alfonso Iannelli. His work can be seen not only in the building itself but in the sculptures inside.
“We liked the architecture long before we ever knew we would own it,” said Long, who received a bachelor of fine arts degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. “I studied Frank Lloyd Wright and the history of Prairie School. Iannelli studied under Frank Lloyd Wright.”
He also is wrapped up in the joy of archaeological discovery, unearthing historical treasures throughout, such as original owner Wright Catlow’s checkbook with the First State Bank of Barrington. One check, dating to 1932, is for $1.75 to the Deep Rock Oil Co.
Hidden behind a curtain that he estimates has been in place since the 1950s, Long said he discovered “the most beautiful arch you’ve ever seen.”
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