DEARBORN (WWJ) - Demand was so high among Metro Detroiters to watch Morocco take on France in the World Cup at the Michael A. Guido Theater that the Mayor of Dearborn moved to approve additional seating to accommodate overflow, city officials announced.
The 1,200-seat Michael Guido theatre is at full capacity for the Mayor’s World Cup Watch Party slated for Wednesday, December 14, with reservations exceeding the available space within a few hours opening up registration.
In response to the overwhelming amount of people seeking to watch the much-anticipated semifinal, Mayor Abdullah H. Hammoud opened up additional accommodations across the hall at the Lincoln Ballroom.
The space will accommodate hundreds of additional viewers, city officials said.
The event is free to the public, but registration is required.
The theater, located at the west entrance of the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center, will open its doors at 1 p.m. for the 2 p.m. match, which is described as a “a true David vs. Goliath” matchup. Morocco is coming into the game as the underdog against the French national team with the winner advancing to face Argentina in the World Cup Final on Sunday, Dec. 18.
“The response from the public has been incredible," Hammoud said in a prepared statement. "We couldn’t be more excited to pair Dearborn’s community spirit with the thrill of a historic World Cup matchup.”
“Community feedback was integral to making this happen," he continued. "Dearborn is all about camaraderie, culture, and connection, and we hope to continue seeking opportunities for residents to make lifelong memories at city events.”
Officials said the first 500 entrants will receive a free Moroccan flag. A number of concessions, food trucks, and food vendors will also be available for sale, including:
• Zo’s Good Burger
• Keaik’s Truck
• Buffs Pizza
• Haraz Coffee
• Custard Co.
• Abu Kunafa
Attendees are encouraged to park on the south side of the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center, and to enter from the east off of Greenfield Road, authorities said.
Parking will be limited between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.