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PM & L Theatre

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A community theatre in Antioch, Illinois, producing live plays, musicals, and concerts since 1960.

Last updated September 27, 2026

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Overview

PM&L Theatre is a community theatre located in Antioch, Illinois, United States. It was founded in 1960 by a group of twelve individuals—actors, business people, artists, and musicians—who each donated $10 to create a cultural organization. The name PM&L derives from the symbols of their three artistic focuses: Palette (symbol of the artist), Masque (symbol of the actor), and Lyre (symbol of the musician). The organization was incorporated as Palette, Masque, and Lyre, Inc., and later became known as PM&L, Inc. Initially, the group produced plays, art exhibits, and concerts for the benefit of local organizations such as the Antioch Women's Club, Lake County Mental Health Group, and various P.T.A.s. In 1963, they were offered the opportunity to rent the Lakes Theatre (originally the Crystal Theatre, built circa 1914) on Main Street in Antioch. This move allowed them to establish a permanent venue and broaden their membership. In 1982, the organization purchased the building, securing its long-term home. Today, PM&L Theatre continues to operate as a community theatre, offering a season of mainstage productions, special events, and youth programs. The theatre seats audiences for plays, musicals, and concerts, and offers multi-show discounts and season subscriptions. It is a non-profit organization governed by a board of directors and supported by volunteers, donations, and local sponsorships. The theatre is a cultural hub in downtown Antioch, attracting patrons from across Lake County and beyond.

History

PM&L Theatre was founded in 1960 in Antioch, Illinois, by a group of twelve individuals representing actors, business people, artists, and musicians. Each contributed $10, amassing $120 to launch an organization dedicated to promoting the fine arts. The name PM&L was formed from the symbols of their three artistic pillars: Palette (artist), Masque (actor), and Lyre (musician). The group incorporated as Palette, Masque, and Lyre, Inc. In its early years, the organization produced plays, art exhibits, and concerts, often benefiting local groups such as the Antioch Women's Club, Lake County Mental Health Group, and P.T.A.s. In 1963, the group was offered the chance to rent the Lakes Theatre (originally the Crystal Theatre, constructed circa 1914) on Main Street in Antioch. This opportunity led to the decision to broaden membership to include general members, and the organization moved into what is now the PM&L Theatre. In 1982, the group purchased the building, securing a permanent home. Over the decades, PM&L Theatre has continued to produce a regular season of plays, musicals, and concerts. It has become a staple of downtown Antioch's cultural scene, attracting patrons from across Lake County. The theatre operates as a non-profit, with a board of directors and volunteer support. Recent developments include the installation of a new awning for Tribute Hall and plans for a new marquee.

  • 1982

    Purchased the theatre building.

  • 1963

    Rented the Lakes Theatre (Crystal Theatre) on Main Street, Antioch.

  • 1960

    Founded by twelve individuals in Antioch, Illinois.

Products and positioning

Community theatre offering affordable live entertainment and cultural enrichment in Lake County, Illinois.

Product categories. Live theatre productions · Musicals · Concerts · Art exhibits · Youth programs · Season subscriptions

Sources5 sources

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