DETROIT (WWJ) — There’s no question the Fox Theater is a Detroit gem. From its famous façade and sign on the outside to the magnificent designs of the theater ceiling and so much more, the Fox’s beauty is a cherished piece of Detroit architecture.
But at almost 100 years old, the theater was in need of a bit of a facelift. Up until a few weeks ago the seats were nearly 100 years old as well.
WWJ Newsradio 950’s Tim Pamplin reports the Ilitch family has poured a lot of money into replacing all 5,000 seats, bringing in new ones that have the historic charm of the original 1928 design, as well as modern amenities.
Tim Padgett, senior VP of venue operations with Ilitch Sports and Entertainment, said Tuesday at a media preview of the upgrades that a lot of planning went into choosing the new seats.
“The fabric on the seats, as an example, we wanted to make sure that the fabric was accurate to 1928 and there’s no drawings or anything, so we had to go back to original, archival photos,” Padgett said.
The seats are part of a new wayfinding system inside the auditorium that features aisle seating — similar to the portal system at Little Caesars Arena — and lighted row illuminators at the end of each row and new cup holders.
Howard Handler, president of 313 Presents, said the updates are a big upgrade for fans and also preserve the theater’s history.
“Everytime I come into the Fox Theater, I get goosebumps. This is one of the grandest theaters in the world. This is a stage that has had Aretha, Frank Sinatra, Elvis, Stevie Wonder,” Handler said.
Fans will have a chance to get a piece of history, as around 2,000 of the original seats have been designated for historical preservation, donated to local non-profit organizations, and auctioned off to benefit local charities.
Details on when and where those seats will be available is yet to be announced.
The updates come just in time for a holiday season lineup at the Fox Theater that features classics such as “ELF The Musical,” the “NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet” and more. A full schedule of events can be found on the 313 Presents website.