exterior of the Congress Theater in December of 2011 (more by Matt Ziegler)

According to a press release sent out earlier this week, the Congress Theater is scheduled to go under the knife for extensive renovations this fall. This includes getting up to code in regards to the current mechanical and electrical standards, adding retail spaces and more studio apartments for rental, and improving the cosmetic appearance of the venue.

In order to make this all happen they've partnered with Doejo, a Chicago-based agency startup, who will be spearheading the operation. Congress owner Eddie Carranza stressed, "I don't want this building to be a cookie-cutter franchise-type building. I want to give it its own character, this isn't a strip mall, this is Logan Square. We want to grow that indie spirit not break it up with a bunch of franchises. I'd like the Congress to be a great community center in Logan Square of diverse, independent boutique businesses--we're looking for entrepreneurs with great ideas to invest in and grow with our space."

Reunited Swedish post-hardcore outfit Refused play the venue on Thursday night (7/26) with OFF!.

Read the entire Congress Theater press release below...

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