Talk about a triple play — the upcoming Steven Spielberg film “Lincoln” will premiere Friday at the historic Lincoln Theatre in the Route 66 town of Lincoln, Ill.
One of the characters in the movie is Robert Latham (played by John Hawkes), who was the original developer of the town of Lincoln, worked with Lincoln in plotting the town, and helped christen it.
According to a news release about the Friday evening screening from Logan County Tourism:
The opening night of “Lincoln” in Lincoln, IL will be a grand red carpet affair, as movie goers attending the 5 p.m. show are greeted by Lincoln and the Lady, portrayed by Chris Hotz and Deborah Senger with Timeless Presentations.
Timeless Presentations was created by Chris and Deb in 2008, originally as Abe and Mary Lincoln featuring walks, step-on tours, presentations and appearances as an avenue to provide historic entertainment for central Illinois. Together they share a striking resemblance to the famous couple, greeting guests as they enter the historic Lincoln Theater 4.
Everyone is invited to dress in period attire, with photo opportunities available with President Lincoln and the first lady along the red carpet, prior to their entrance into the theater to enjoy the movie. Lincoln and the Lady will also be on hand to greet guests and snap photos prior to the 8:00 p.m. showing as well.
The Lincoln Theatre was built in downtown Lincoln in 1923 — predating the Mother Road by three years.
UPDATE 11/17/2012: The Springfield State Journal-Register filed a story about the event. County tourism director Geoff Ladd said:
“I still go back to the fact that, while people here visit Route 66, they’re going to get a dose of Lincoln. It seems odd that Abe wouldn’t be the big draw here, but he plays second fiddle to 66. But not tonight. Tonight, Abe rules.”
(Photos courtesy of Logan County Tourism)