Detroit’s Fox Theatre, one of the most iconic theatres and music venues in the world, will be visited by Columbia University alumni on Sunday, May 19 — and you are invited.  

The historic theatre is truly a “movie palace” with its colossal grand lobby covering half a block and its lavish interior with a blend of Egyptian, Indian, and Oriental motifs.  Opened in 1928 as the flagship for the Fox Theatre Chain, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1988.  

The Fox was bought in 1987 by Olympia Entertainment and fully restored to its former glory in 1988 at a cost of $12 million. Ray Shepardson, who oversaw the restoration, called the Fox “the most spectacular, over-the-top movie palace ever built.”

You can see it all with fellow Columbia alumni on a 90-minute guided tour to:

• Learn about the theatre's history, building details, and performances. Ride the hand-operated elevator, one of the first of its kind in Detroit.

• Walk onstage where legends like Frank Sinatra, Elvis, Liza Minnelli, and Berry Gordy’s Motown Revue performed.

• Visit backstage and see signatures of performing artists.

Please join us as we gather no later than 2:45 p.m. on Sunday, May 19, in front of the Fox Theatre.  To participate, you must RSVP.  Cost is $20 per person paid in advance. Thanks to Michael Pelton, ‘19SEAS, member of the Board of our Columbia Alumni Association of Michigan, for arranging this special event.  

WHEN: Sunday, May 19 - Gather at 2:45 p.m. Tour begins at 3 p.m.

WHERE: The Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48201

COST: $20 per person

PARKING: The garage closest to the entrance is the Comerica Parking Garage at 50 W Montcalm St, Detroit, MI 48201.