Supporting Illinois' Arts Sector

The Egyptian Theatre in DeKalb, Illinois, is a testament to both the cultural and architectural heritage of the state. Owned and operated by Preservation of Egyptian Theatre, Inc., since 1978, this historic theatre first opened its doors in 1929. Its mission is to preserve its historical integrity while serving as a regional arts center that fosters community involvement. The Egyptian Theatre's vision is to be a cherished gathering place that enriches the local community culturally and economically. Recognized for its architectural significance, the theater was named a Top 20 Illinois Architectural Treasure in 2018 and has received numerous accolades, including the 2023 Award for "Best Nonprofits to Work For" by The NonProfit Times.

On Saturday, February 7th, at 7 PM, the Egyptian Theatre will host its 9th Annual Jazz Night, a celebration of local talent and community spirit. This event will feature performances by Jazz in Progress, DeKalb High School Jazz Ensemble, Sycamore High School Jazz Ensemble, and the famed Northern Illinois University Jazz Orchestra. The evening promises a vibrant display of musical artistry, with proceeds benefiting the music programs at the participating high schools and Northern Illinois University. It’s a cherished tradition that underscores the theater's commitment to supporting local education and the arts.

Jeanine Holcomb, the Marketing & Communications Director for the Egyptian Theatre, highlights the impact of community support, stating, “Support from the Illinois Arts Council plays a vital role in our ability to offer diverse programming and give back to our community. Because of this partnership, the Egyptian Theatre can continue serving as both a historic venue and a community resource for arts, education, and connection.”

Christine Steyer, 2020 Honored Artist of The American Prize, has distinguished herself as a soprano, music advocate, librettist, and producer. Renowned for portrayals of operatic heroines, she sang in 40 productions with Lyric Opera of Chicago and is a committed recitalist championing works by contemporary women poets and composers. In 2021 she premiered the role of a healthcare worker in the award-winning opera On Call: COVID-19; in 2022 she premiered Flanna in Future Perfect, serving as librettist for both. More recently she has been featured in Elijah, Speed Dating Tonight, and Le dernier sorcier. Her 2026 season includes music by Jake Heggie and the role of the Countess in Le nozze di Figaro. Beyond performance, Steyer has brought music to more than 26,000 young people, co‑founded the vocal alliance Working in Concert, and serves as Artistic Director of its Bellissima Opera initiative.

Grateful for support from the IAC, Steyer says, “The IAC Accelerator grant is invaluable in supporting the range of projects I’m currently working on.” Those projects include a new opera libretto, And I Did Not Speak Out, exploring silence in the face of fascism; music videos of original songs co‑created with French composer‑pianist Jean‑Claude Orfali; recordings of songs by Chicago‑based composers including Florence Price and Ernst Bacon; and development of a new Bellissima Music in the Schools curriculum featuring songs by Hispanic and American composers. “IAC funding supports both out-of-pocket expenses and the countless hours musicians devote to projects from inception to fruition. This grant acknowledges the value artists bring to enrich and inspire their communities.”