Gazing up at this magnificent spectacle, one can’t help but wonder about the stories within the Fox Theatre’s walls. The Fox Theatre isn’t just a building. It’s a time capsule, a monument to Detroit’s golden age of entertainment. Opened in 1928, the Fox Theatre was the largest theater in Detroit, boasting over 5,000 seats. It was the crown jewel of the Fox Theatres chain, a testament to the vision of film pioneer William Fox.
The Fox Theatre wasn’t just big; it was opulent. Designed by renowned theater architect C. Howard Crane, its interior is a breathtaking blend of architectural styles. Think Burmese, Chinese, Indian, and Persian motifs all woven together. Imagine a six-story lobby, a massive chandelier with 1,200 pieces of glass, and walls adorned with gilded plaster elephants, griffins, and dragons. It was a palace of dreams, designed to transport moviegoers to another world. And it wasn’t just a feast for the eyes. The Fox Theatre was also the first theater designed for sound films, equipped with the “Movietone” system. This cutting-edge technology allowed audiences to experience movies in a way they never had before.
The Fox Theatre was more than just a movie palace. It was a stage for some of the biggest names in entertainment. From Shirley Temple in the 1930s to Elvis Presley in 1956, the Fox hosted a who’s who of stars. During World War II, it even operated 24 hours a day to entertain the tireless defense plant workers. The Fox Theatre’s story isn’t without its challenges. By the 1970s, the grand old theater was showing its age, and maintenance had been deferred for years. The mezzanine and balcony were even closed to the public. But like a phoenix from the ashes, the Fox Theatre was reborn in 1988 thanks to Mike and Marian Ilitch. Their $12 million restoration returned the theater to its former glory. Today, the Fox Theatre continues to shine as a premier performing arts center. It has hosted countless Broadway shows, concerts, and special events. The Fox Theatre stands as a symbol of Detroit’s resilience and its enduring love for the arts. It is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, beauty can prevail. So, the next time you pass by the Fox Theatre, take a moment to appreciate its grandeur. Remember the stories it holds within its walls, and the legacy it continues to build.