In front of you rises the Michigan Theater, a movie palace tucked near Central Campus at the University of Michigan. It still shows independent films and stage productions and hosts musical concerts, but step closer and you can feel the layers of its past. Designed by Detroit-based architect Maurice Finkel and built in 1927, the historic auditorium seats 1,610 and retains its original 1927 Barton Theatre Pipe Organ, an orchestra pit, a stage, and elaborate architectural details.
Built for and owned by Angelo Poulos and his heirs, it was leased until 1978 to the W. S. Butterfield Theatres chain, who managed it along with Butterfield's nearby State Theater; both theaters are now owned and managed by the non-profit Marquee Arts. When the Michigan opened on January 5, 1928 it was hailed as the finest theater in Ann Arbor, hosting movies, vaudeville acts, live concerts, and touring stage plays; performers such as Jack Benny, Bing Crosby, Paul Robeson, and Ethel Barrymore all appeared here. A 1956 renovation destroyed many original ornate designs, and after a period of low attendance the theater was even threatened with demolition.
Notice the elaborate details that survived a 1956 renovation, still ornamenting this near-forgotten movie palace.