Because of the J Theatre's lack of a backstage area, Buddy Guy saw an opportunity to make a memorable entrance in 1990, delivering a guitar solo as he entered at the back of the venue and walked downstairs to the stage. Courtesy of Harper College Archives

There’s no applause left in J Theatre.

This summer, as demolition crews raze Building J, they’re taking down more than just brick and concrete — they’re dismantling a stage that helped launch careers, sparked lifelong friendships and turned student dreams into standing ovations. It’s where Jay Leno cracked jokes, Adam West shared stories and Buddy Guy made a memorable entrance.

‘A glorified classroom’

Decades ago, the J Theatre was the coolest place to be on Harper College’s campus. In the ’80s, Jerry Seinfeld did stand-up there. In

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