CHAMPAIGN — After three months of “going dark” for renovations, the Virginia Theatre will reopen to the public with a special, free screening Monday.

“Drop,” a new PG-13 thriller, will preview at the Virginia at 7 p.m., in partnership with NBC Universal Pictures, before being released nationwide. The event is part of the Mix 94.5 and Rewind 92.5 movie series.

Theatre Director Steven Bentz described the screening as a “soft opening” before Ebertfest returns on April 23. 

“There are a lot of pieces to put back into place when you darken a theatre for three months, from restoring the stage to re-engaging with staff, but we’ll be ready Monday when doors open at 6 p.m.,” he told The News-Gazette.

The theatre closed in January for upgrades to the fly system’s computer controls. That work is now finished, and the system is “fully functional,” Bentz said. Theatre staff were trained on the new controls last week.

“Our main concerns were always over possible supply chain issues and also the usual challenges of working in a 104-year-old building,” he said. “In the end, everything went smoothly and the project was finished on time.”

After Monday’s screening, the next event on the Virginia’s calendar is Ebertfest, which is set for April 23-26.

Organizers recently announced the final three films for the festival’s lineup: 

“Megalopolis””I’m Still Here” “The Adventures of Prince Achmed”

Ebertfest passes can be purchased at thevirginia.org or by calling the box office at 217-356-9063.

More information about this year’s lineup is available at ebertfest.com.

Also on the Virginia’s calendar this spring and summer:

May 2-3: “Cinderella,” performed by the CU BalletMay 22-24: “Beetlejuice,” performed by the Champaign Park District’s youth theatre programMay 30-31: “Peter Pan: The Ballet,” performed by the Champaign Park District’s dance arts programJune 3: Crowder and Matt MaherJune 24: Buddy Guy

The theatre will also play host to University of Illinois convocation events.

“We’re excited to be reopening better than ever, with some wonderful new technology to share, and we’re looking forward to seeing the public back at this beautifully restored, historic venue,” Bentz said.