Can This Illinois Music Venue Destroyed By Tornadoes Make A Comeback?

The storms that tore through Iowa and Illinois on March 31, 2023, left a path of destruction that took out several structures, damaged buildings and cars and caused numerous injuries and even left one person dead.

In the face of all this adversity, many would give up.  But the owners of the Apollo Theater in Belvidere Illinois, want to rebuild and do what they do best.

Storm Outbreak on March 31, 2023

During the afternoon and evening of March 31, 2023, a path of storms raced its way across Iowa and Illinois.  The storm produced a confirmed 30 tornadoes.  The largest was an EF 4 Tornado in Iowa with 170 mph winds that was located in Johnson County.

As seen in the graphic below, it was a busy day for severe weather.

The Apollo Theater in Belvidere Illinois

The Apollo Theater was just starting up a concert that night when the powerful storm would hit the town of Belvidere.  The historic venue would sustain massive damage including the roof of the venue collapsing killing one person and injuring nearly 30 more.

Now, the Apollo is trying to rebuild but they need public help.  The theater has started a Go Fund Me campaign to try and raise $250,000.

The family has said they had several people reach out wanting to help restore the Apollo.  While they were hesitant to set up a fundraiser, with the insurance payout not being large enough to cover the repairs they are now asking for help.

Updated 4/18/23 at 12:00 p.m.

The Go Fund Me page has been updated as they are currently pausing the campaign:

Through individual and community outreach, we have been notified of additional disaster relief funding that we hope will assist with the Apollo's overwhelming reconstruction and restoration costs. We would like to express our heartfelt appreciation for your support and at the moment will be pausing the GoFundMe as we apply for these additional grants to rebuild our loved community center. Thank you, Apollo Ac