News Releases

BMO Harris Bank Takes the Stage with the Black Ensemble Theater, Finances Groundbreaking Cultural Center in Chicago

CHICAGO, Nov. 18, 2011 – BMO Harris Bank today congratulates the Black Ensemble Theater on the opening of its new Cultural Center in Chicago. As part of this initiative, BMO Harris provided $6 million in financing which assisted the Black Ensemble Theater in acquiring the Cultural Center's building, a new venue which will showcase larger-scale productions and theater efforts.

The Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center includes a 299-seat main stage theater, double the size of the current venue and can now accommodate bigger audiences and a wider range of educational programming. In addition, the venue has a second, 150-seat stage that serves as an experimental stage featuring the work of the Black Playwright Initiative (BPI), classroom space, rehearsal hall, dance studio, scene shop, costume shop, wardrobe rooms, seven dressing rooms, rehearsal room for musicians, and an indoor parking garage.

"The Black Ensemble Theatre brings something special to Chicago -- they break barriers in the theater industry and they delive r a significant cultural impact to our city," said Mark Furlong, president and CEO of BMO Harris Bank. "Helping expand their efforts by supporting their new Cultural Center allows us to be part of a great movement which enhances the understanding and appreciation of all cultures in our communities -- an important part of who we are at BMO Harris Bank."

“We’re so proud to be in partnership with BMO Harris Bank and so glad that they will be well-represented at our historic Grand Opening celebration," said Jackie Taylor, Black Ensemble Theater Founder and CEO.

"BMO Harris Bank has been a long time supporter of the theater,” said Ron Redd, Director, BMO Capital Markets and Black Ensemble Theater board member. “I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of the bank's continued partnership with the theater and its contribution to the new Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center. Friday night will truly be a special event.”

BMO Harris Bank was also a presenting sponsor of the Black Ensemble Theater's 35th Anniversary Celebration and Gala held on October 14, 2011.

The new Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center opens on Friday, November 18 at 7 p.m. at 4450 N. Clark Street. Attendees of the Grand Opening will be treated to a preview of “The Jackie Wilson Story” which launches the 2011-2012 Legendary Season of Rhythm & Blues.

The mission of the Black Ensemble Theater Company is to eradicate racism and its devastating effects upon society through the theater arts. For more information on the Black Ensemble Theater Company, please visit www.BlackEnsembleTheater.org or call 773-769-4451.

About BMO Harris Bank
Based in Chicago, BMO Harris Bank has approximately 700 branches and approximately 1,350 ATMs in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, Minnesota, Arizona and Florida. Member FDIC. BMO Harris Bank is part of BMO Financia l Group, a North American financial institution with 1,600 branches, a retail deposit base of approximately $180 billion.

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