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Art House Theaters Surge 9%, Chicago Grows 15%

6/23/2026

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Story summary
  • Independent art house theaters in the U.S. posted a 9% rise in 2025 (IND/EX survey).
  • Chicago’s Music Box Theatre returned to its 2023 attendance level and is growing 10-15% annually, Ryan Oestreich said.
  • Twenty-five percent of patrons started attending within three years, with an average age of 40 and 68% under 45.
  • Over 70% say the theater improves quality of life, 97% praise its films, and 43% have joined programs.