McHenry’s The Vixen Steals the Show

One of the region’s newest entertainment venues is quickly becoming a premier destination, and not only because its lineup is full of acts you can’t find elsewhere. What many people enjoy at The Vixen in McHenry is a true variety.

“We’ve done everything from children’s shows to rock concerts, hip-hop concerts and national touring comedians,” says Aaron Dullum, general manager. “We’re trying not to limit ourselves to anything. If we can put it on the stage and it will appeal to someone within the community, we’ll do it.”

The venue formerly known as the McHenry Downtown Indoor Theater delivers a rich set of acts in the coming months, with an emphasis on original musicians, comedians and tribute acts you won’t generally find in the west and northwest suburbs.

Coming on the heels of a tribute to Blink 182 and the ’90s punk scene, rock superstars Powerman 5000 bring a night of headbanging on July 11.

Country singer/songwriter Frank Foster shares his original sound on Aug. 2 before another country act, 7 Summers, plays its tribute to superstar Morgan Wallen.

There’s also a host of comedy acts coming as part of The Vixen’s free Wednesday night comedy series. These seasoned performers often appear in Chicago and Milwaukee.

The Vixen is set inside a former movie theater that still retains its glamor, but it’s all tricked out for live music with four sets of lasers and a video wall. The venue even has four fully operational bars, Thursday night karaoke, a menu of custom cocktails and a VIP section with a dedicated bar and lounge area.

Separate, but still part of the complex, a restaurant offers prime views from its perch above the downtown McHenry Riverwalk.

“We just want to bring people to the area and have them enjoy McHenry,” says Dullum. “If you’re here for the day, check out a great restaurant, walk the riverwalk and come enjoy a show.”

For the latest on events and tickets, go to vixenmchenry.com or call (815) 528-3008. The Vixen is located at 1208 N. Green St., in downtown McHenry.