By Steve Zalusky | Daily Herald
Barrington’s Catlow Theatre has seen many changes since the Long family purchased the iconic movie house.
Now, in addition to the dramatic cosmetic changes that are transforming the Catlow, the theater is seeing a change in ownership.
The Long family is donating the theater to the Catlow 1927 Foundation, which will handle the theater’s management and programming. All proceeds from performances, events, movie showings, and private rentals will support operations, according to the foundation’s website, catlow1927.org.
Barrington businessman and property owner Brian Long, the foundation’s president, made the announcement Tuesday during a tour of the nearly century-old theater, which followed a reception at Barrington’s White House.
Long said the foundation will operate the theater on a business basis, believing it will survive for generations to come. The foundation keeps about five years of operating expenses in reserve, he said.
He said it was always the master plan to have the theater foundation owned and operated. Now that the fundraising effort has raised half its $6 million goal, the family is comfortable the foundation can stand on its own.
Brian and Julianne Long purchased the theater for just under $500,000 in 2022.
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What a wonderful gift from Brian and Julianne! Thank you!!!