Fire damages Palatine theater's lobby

A fire in the office and lobby area of the Palatine Park District's Cutting Hall auditorium will force the park district to close the theater for a few weeks, fire officials said.

The Palatine Fire Department responded to the blaze at 11:53 a.m. Monday and reported heavy smoke inside the building located at 150 East Wood St. in Palatine.

Crews were able to bring the fire under control within 10 minutes of arriving, but the flames caused significant damage to an office off the main lobby and smoke damage to the lobby, according to the fire department.

“It made some minor smoke in the theater, but was mostly contained to the office and lobby area,” said Battalion Chief William Gabrenya.

The building was empty when the fire alarm was activated.

Fire officials estimate the damages at approximately $60,000.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.