From the classic golden era of America's cinema The Michigan Theater opened on January 5, 1928, and was at the time the finest theater in Ann Arbor. The theater not only showed movies, but also hosted vaudeville acts, live concerts, and touring stage plays. During a renovation in 1956, many of the original ornate designs were destroyed. After a period of low attendance, the theater was threatened with demolition when its 50-year lease to Butterfield Theatres ran out in 1978, but members of the community and local organists helped raise funds to save and renovate the theater, returning it to its original design. A second screen, the Screening Room, with a state-of-the-art sound system, seating for 200, and the ability to project films digitally, was added in 1999. The Michigan Theater is the current home of the annual Ann Arbor Film Festival, the Ann Arbor Symphony, and the Ann Arbor Concert Band. Designed by Detroit-based architect Maurice Finkel (1888–1949) and built in 1927, the historic auditorium seats 1610 and features the theater's original 1927 Barton Theatre Pipe Organ, orchestra pit, stage, and elaborate architectural details. It was built for and owned by Angelo Poulos and his heirs and was leased until 1978 to the Butterfield Theatres chain, who managed it along with Butterfield's nearby State Theater. Both theaters are now owned and managed by the non-profit Michigan Theater Foundation.

Nice venue with easy in and out. Sitting in the back makes it pretty hard to see, as there’s barely a raise in the ground for people in the back to see. However, it was clean. Small venue but very nice. Would recommend if there’s someone playing that you like, come by and see what it’s all about!

Beautiful venue. Very enjoyable experience. Lobby displays an installation of the history of the theater and Ann Arbor. Very interesting. Easy commute from the west side of the state, sans construction, otherwise just a few slowdowns. Plenty of inexpensive parking around the theater too.

The architecture of this old theater is beautiful, though the seats and carpeted floors could use an overhaul. Plenty of helpful ushers, etc. But this show--The Magic of Motown-- was phenomenal--it had me dancing in my seat! Acoustics were pretty good, and the show was amazing! I'd definitely return to the Michigan Theater and recommend highly!

Excellent venue for movies and other events... intimate setting for concerts and orchestra performances! Beautiful interior ... amazing staff and volunteers!

It was one of greatest experience. Loreena was mind blowing and the theater so nice the sound came out so clear amazing.

My sister took us here to see White Christmas, and it was so fun! They gave you props to help make the movie interactive, and people sang along. It's a great experience if you're in Ann Arbor. 🙂

Beautiful old theater, newly renovated seats. There is an organist that plays before the movie with us super cool

Spacious. Amazing acoustics. Exquisite interior decorations. Ushers are very helpful. Comfortable seats.

A beautiful theater. The gilded lobby is gorgeous, the bathrooms are surprisingly modern with plenty of stalls, and the seats are far roomier and more comfortable than many recently built venues. The stage is large, and the views from most seats are excellent. I had a very enjoyable experience.

Great experience the place was very beautiful me and the kids had a great time. we went before Christmas. And got free, hot chocolate and free piggy banks from the business around the theater. Also, we get a picture with Santa.

Beautiful venue to watch a show. Great acoustics and small enough that you can see everything

Beautiful, spacious theater with vintage vibes and seats that are surprisingly comfortable. Oh, and they even have a concession stand with reasonably priced popcorn combos. I thoroughly enjoyed my evening with some of the best comics from my favorite podcast WWDTM hosted by Alonzo Bodden. I will definitely be back for more events at the regal Michigan Theater.

This theater is the reason I moved to Ann Arbor. No joke. I worship this place. Love the foreign and indie films in particular. :-)

Incredible old theater showing different and interesting films. I just saw Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah " there. Ann Arbor tradition keeping non-hollywood film alive.

This place us awesome. They show movies and they host concerts. Are the movies good? Some are, some are not. Is the live music good? Yes, for the most part it is. If you like rootsy Americana etc.

Beautiful theater in the heart of Ann Arbor. They don't build them like this anymore. Do yourself a favor and go see a show here. You won't be disappointed!

Great, intimate place to see a concert. I have not been there since the 80's. Theatre has a lot of natural beauty and character.

It's the Michigan Theater! Great venue for movies and live performances. Super friendly staff. Just take a tour of this beautiful building and buy a bucket of their fabulous popcorn. Donate a little something to keep this historical gem open.

Take note. If you are in the double letters section, the sound is set up right in front of you. That was NOT mentioned when purchasing the tickets. Hotter than hell in there (August concert). And one concession stand. It was packed with people trying to buy snacks and drinks. I definitely would buy tickets in the balcony or in single letter rows. Great sound and great show by Lake Street Dive.