A Brief History of the Fox Theater Detroit
Located in the heart of downtown Detroit, the Fox Theater is a true gem of the city’s architectural and cultural heritage. Originally opened in 1928, the Fox Theater has been entertaining audiences for nearly a century with its stunning beauty and world-class performances. Let’s take a closer look at the history of this magnificent theater and why it’s a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Detroit.
The Fox Theater was designed by the renowned architect C. Howard Crane, who was responsible for some of the most iconic theaters of the early 20th century. The theater was commissioned by William Fox, a movie mogul who wanted to build a theater in Detroit that would rival the best theaters of New York City and Chicago. The Fox Theater was a masterpiece of art deco design, with its ornate plasterwork, intricate mosaics, and stunning chandeliers.
The theater opened its doors on September 21, 1928, with a screening of the silent film “Street Angel” starring Janet Gaynor. In the following years, the Fox Theater became one of the most popular entertainment venues in Detroit, hosting a variety of events, including movies, concerts, and Broadway shows. Many famous performers graced the stage of the Fox Theater, including Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, and Duke Ellington.
However, by the 1960s, the Fox Theater was struggling to maintain its popularity as more and more people turned to television and suburban movie theaters. In 1966, the theater was nearly demolished, but a group of concerned citizens and preservationists rallied to save the building. After years of neglect and disrepair, the Fox Theater was finally restored to its former glory in the 1980s, thanks to a massive renovation project that cost over $12 million.
Today, the Fox Theater is once again one of the most popular entertainment venues in Detroit, hosting a variety of shows and events throughout the year. Whether you’re interested in seeing a Broadway musical, a live concert, or a classic movie, the Fox Theater is the perfect destination for anyone who loves the arts.
The Fox Theater Detroit Stunning Architecture and Design
One of the most impressive aspects of the Fox Theater is its stunning architecture and design. The theater’s art deco style is evident in every corner of the building, from the intricate plasterwork on the walls to the colorful mosaics on the ceiling. The theater’s lobby is particularly impressive, with its soaring ceiling, massive chandeliers, and ornate columns.
One of the most iconic features of the Fox Theater is its “sky” ceiling, which creates the illusion of an outdoor sky with twinkling stars. The ceiling is made of plaster and features a unique lighting system that can be adjusted to simulate different times of day and weather conditions.
The theater’s auditorium is just as impressive as its lobby, with its massive stage, plush seats, and ornate balconies. The auditorium can seat over 5,000 people, making it one of the largest theaters in the country.
What to Expect When Visiting the Fox Theater Detroit
If you’re planning to visit the Fox Theater, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, be sure to arrive early to give yourself plenty of time to explore the theater’s stunning lobby and take in all the details of its art deco design. You can also grab a drink or a snack at the theater’s concession stand before the show.
Another important thing to keep in mind is the theater’s dress code. While there is no formal dress code, the Fox Theater does ask that patrons dress appropriately for the occasion. This means no hats, shorts, or athletic wear,
and that you dress up a bit for evening events, such as Broadway shows or concerts.
The Fox Theater also offers a variety of amenities to make your visit more comfortable, including accessible seating options, coat check services, and restrooms on every level of the theater.
When it comes to purchasing tickets for a show at the Fox Theater, there are several options available. You can purchase tickets directly through the theater’s website or box office, or you can use a third-party ticketing website such as Ticketmaster.
Conclusion
Overall, visiting the Fox Theater in Detroit is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed. Whether you’re a fan of the arts or simply appreciate beautiful architecture and design, the Fox Theater has something for everyone. So why not plan a trip to Detroit and see for yourself why the Fox Theater is a must-visit destination?
