Roosevelt Theatre

The Roosevelt was operated by master showman Bill Exton from 1939 till 1968. Bill was previously a front man for a major studio, manager of the Follies Berlesque in Detroit and local manager for Standard Theatres, Kenosha and Gateway (Rhode), in downtown Kenosha. From 1969 till 1971 theatre was operated by Ted Lenz. From 1971 till 1985 theatre was owned and operated by Carmichael and Associates. The Carmichaels renewed showmanship allowed this theatre to become the longest running movie theatre in Kenosha with over 55 years of continuous operation.
The theatre organ was removed in the 1950’s in order to install modern air conditioning. The original color palate and decorative wall hangings were removed in the 1950’s after a fire in a neighboring structure caused major smoke damage to the auditorium.
Seating capacity was reduced to 764 with the installation of larger “pushback” seats in the 1970’s. The lobby was modernized at
the same time. This contrasted greatly with the original
auditoriums domed ceiling and ornate organ grilles. A plan in the 1970’s called for the addition of a second auditorium to be added on to the west side of the original structure. This was never completed.