Rooted in the heart of Detroit, the Detroit Repertory Theatre stands as a beacon of artistic expression and community engagement. Since 1957, this theater has championed inclusivity and challenged societal norms. It has become Michigan’s longest running non-profit professional theater.
The Detroit Repertory Theatre began its journey as a touring company. They brought musical plays to children across Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. In 1963, they found their permanent home on Woodrow Wilson Avenue. Here, the Detroit Repertory Theatre cemented its commitment to fighting racism and promoting unity.
Imagine the theater in its early days. Interracial casting was a bold move. The Detroit Repertory Theatre unflinchingly embraced it. They showcased the common humanity that binds us all. This commitment persisted. It withstood the racial polarization and “white flight” of the time.
The Detroit Repertory Theatre survived the 1967 riots. It clung to its principles despite bigotry from all sides. During the seventies, the theater persevered. It slowly built an audience amidst neighborhood decay and poverty. The Detroit Repertory Theatre acquired its building and two auxiliary facilities.
In 1980, a grant from the Kresge Foundation enabled renovations. The Detroit Repertory Theatre became a symbol of neighborhood revitalization. A new parking lot replaced decayed buildings. By 1987, the theater owned all its buildings outright. Attendance tripled. Over 150,000 admissions were sold in the eighties. All this happened in a theater seating only 184. The seating capacity later rose to 194.
The nineties brought new challenges. Funding cuts and recession threatened the arts. The Detroit Repertory Theatre responded with resilience. They launched a renovation and expansion project. The lobby was expanded and refurbished. The auditorium received new seats and carpeting.
Today, the Detroit Repertory Theatre continues to thrive. It fills seats to 85% capacity. The theater remains committed to its mission. It seeks to transform the city and state into a more civil society.
The Detroit Repertory Theatre produces four major productions each year. Each production runs for eight weeks. Performances happen four times per week. This results in 132 or more performances annually. The theater operates under an Actors’ Equity Association contract.
The Detroit Repertory Theatre’s impact extends beyond its performances. It offers cultural and educational community services. They play an active role in neighborhood revitalization. The theater runs several outreach programs. These include a summer festival and a new playwrights program.
Consider the words of Julius Novick. He wrote that the Detroit Repertory Theatre knows what theater is about and what it can do. The Detroit Repertory Theatre has earned praise for excellence and innovation. Perseverance and loyal support have brought the theater far. The Detroit Repertory Theatre remains a vital force in Detroit’s cultural landscape.