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Enhancements are underway at Detroit’s historic Fox Theatre, including the replacement of more than 5,000 guest seats. A new wayfinding system similar to the Portal entry system at Little Caesars Arena will also be implemented to efficiently direct guests to their seats. Details on further enhancements to the theatre will be announced later.
To accommodate the renovation process, the theatre is closed for ticketed events – including concerts and shows – through late September.
The Fox Theatre is part of The District Detroit, a dynamic urban destination in the heart of Detroit and a driving catalyst of the city’s resurgence. The theatre is one of the most iconic theatres and music venues in the world. In addition to hosting some of the biggest names in show business, the historic venue features a collection of award-winning Broadway musicals, interactive stage shows and treasured holiday favorites. The Fox Theatre is the second-largest theatre in the nation, second only to Radio City Music Hall in New York City.
Guest seats will be enhanced on all levels, including the installation of cup holders on the back of every seat, new seat bottoms and backs for increased comfort. New fabric will resemble the original historic fabric, with the original “Fox Theatre” logo embedded. Each row will also feature a row letter illuminator, providing a more efficient way for guests to locate their seats before or during an event.
Approximately 2,000 original seats will be designated for historical preservation, donated to local non-profit organizations, and auctioned off to benefit local charities.
Throughout the planning process for the upcoming enhancements, historic theatres across the country were benchmarked to gather best practices for industry-leading guest advancements.
“The Fox Theatre has hosted some of the world’s greatest performers and most popular shows throughout its storied history, and provided generations of Detroiters with countless memories,” said Chris Ilitch, CEO of Ilitch Companies. “We are excited to make these investments in the Fox to further elevate the guest experience, while preserving the elegance that truly makes this iconic theatre Detroit’s crown jewel.”
Shortly after acquiring the Fox in 1987, the Ilitches began a robust restoration of the building. After nearly a year-long renovation, 100 percent of the theatre was restored, preserving 80 percent of the original finish. The middle balcony level of the theatre was converted into a private viewing area, providing an intimate setting for guests in 17 “Loge” style boxes.
The Fox Theatre celebrated its grand re-opening on Nov. 19, 1988, with a show called “Curtains Up.”
In addition to the Fox Theatre renovations in 1987 and 1988, the surrounding office building was upgraded and in 1989, the Ilitches moved Little Caesars Headquarters into the Fox Office Building. That same year, the Fox Theatre was designated a National Historic Landmark due to, among other things, its history, architecture and cultural significance.
The Fox Theatre is one of the anchors of The District Detroit, a premier sports and entertainment destination in the heart of Detroit, with Little Caesars Arena three blocks north, Comerica Park one block east and Ford Field three blocks east – all serving as catalysts for the city’s ongoing resurgence.
Ilitch-owned Olympia Development is providing design and construction oversight with Detroit-based general contractor Sachse Construction, Detroit-based architects Neumann Smith, Michigan-based seating company Irwin, and Detroit-based fabric company Maharam in partnership with theatre consultant Martin Vinik Planning for the Arts, LLC.
