I love it here! 1920s movie palace with an original Barton pipe organ that is still played prior to some showings and events. There is still the vintage exterior box office, a large marquee, and a traditional concession stand layout with modern offerings. The main auditorium has so much character and wonderful, sumptuous design details! The secondary screening room is larger than I expected, has comfortable seating and decent sound. The Michigan hosts a mix of first run, repertory, independent, and experimental programming, including service as the main theater for the annual Ann Arbor Film Festival. read more

The Michigan Theater is genuinely one of my favorite places in Ann Arbor. Watching movies here feels special every single time. Whether it's a new release or seeing classics like Star Wars, LOTR, or The Big Lebowski on the big screen, the experience is incredible. The theater itself is breathtaking too. Around 1600 seats, the balcony, the chandelier, and the nearly 100-year-old organ that rises up before the movie starts while someone plays it live. It honestly feels magical in a way that no modern theater does anymore. Even just seeing the marquee glowing outside at night feels iconic. The whole place has this timeless energy to it that makes going to the movies feel important again. Whenever someone asks me my favorite place in Ann Arbor, this is my answer. read more

Historic needs to never be demolished. Good popcorn Good red velvet. Good choice in indie showings just go to one read more

Recently went to an author reading at the Michigan Theater and everything went seamlessly. I'm pretty sure they have updated seating that seemed a little comfier and possibly more spacious than I remember. Snack lines move relatively fast, too. Can't wait until my next event! read more

My husband and I were there for the first time ever to see my favorite band (Birthday present from him). The place was clean, organized, small, but great service. Easy affordable parking and convenient dinning within walking distance. Love this venue! read more

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I love Michigan Theater!! An iconic visual symbol of Ann Arbor, it is packed with charm, incredible design and detail, and a sense of reminiscence and nostalgia. At a minimum, we go watch the Oscar Nominated Shorts here every year (Animated - my favorite category), which is one of my favorite date nights that I always look forward to. But they do so much more! In addition to movies, they do all kinds of special screenings, music shows, events, etc. I've gone here in the past to a Vulfpeck show (one of the most fun shows I've been to), my first time experiencing the Rocky Horror Picture Show, AA Film Fest, a South Indian dance competition show, a celebration of skiing, and many other special events. The theater seats aren't going to be as comfortable as your modern movie theater, but literally everything else makes up for it. You can count on a night at Michigan Theater to be special and memorable. They do serve alcoholic drinks as well as traditional concession items. To buy alcohol, you need to have a membership card. If you don't, it's super easy to become a member on the spot for $5 (which just goes back to supporting the theater, so it's really a no brainer). They'll then give you a card that's good for a year. Definitely plan on going here for something, or everything! This theater is an important part of the community, Ann Arbor, and in celebrating the arts. read more

Michigan Theater - Main screening room - Cinema Near Me - Ann Arbor, Michigan

My husband and I just attended a film festival at Michigan Theater and we were quite impressed. Staff were friendly and helpful. The main theater room is HUGE! The screening room is cozy. It felt like stepping back in time when we walked into the doors of the theater. Think the great Gatsby, big sweeping staircases and ornate ceilings. read more

Awesome concert. The theater design was a great surprise. The sound quality was amazing. Will be going again.

This is an absolutely beautiful theater, filled with opulent splendor. I finally saw a movie here in the main auditorium, I'm gonna call it the grand auditorium, taking in a viewing of Asteroid City this past weekend. I was thinking of seeing Oppenheimer, but it was showing in the more cineplexy affiliated theater down the block - The State Theater. That's not a bad theater either but I really wanted to finally see a film in the grand theater here, and Asteroid City was perfect. Previously I'd seen two films in the smaller auditorium to the rear and around the corner- some animated flick I enjoyed but can't quite remember the name of and Super Duper Alice Cooper where the director was there and got interviewed by a DJ from WDET. It's clearly a later addition to the building back there and though it doesn't have the size or splendor of the original theater I don't mind it. It gives the place more versatility and must help to keep the lights on. But the main room is what I pine for. Previously I'd seen local artist Scott Hocking give a Penny Stamps lecture in the main auditorium and it's cool they gave him such a magnificent backdrop for a slideshow, lecture and Q and A, but again it just whet my appetite for a film here. The balcony was closed and I think it always is. I don't know if it's due to disrepair or just they have more seating capacity than they know what to do with. No matter. Main floor is what I wanted, especially on the maiden voyage. No cup holders but the plush old school seats are surprisingly comfortable; a lot of these theaters that have been around for many decades don't have the easiest chairs to sit in. Concessions are eminently reasonable in price, and they don't value shame you into ordering giant servings by making the small and mediums cost almost as much. I appreciate that. Staff is on point, too. They seem like like an intelligent, intuitive bunch of film lovers. And the lobby is magnificent, too, as is the marquee. I don't have one bad thing to say about this place. Let's all go to the movies... read more

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I'm ashamed to say that the last time I was here was the late 80s, to see a Talking heads concert. I'm glad I got the opportunity to return last night for the Ann Arbor Film Festival. We saw Films in Competition 12. The theater is even more stunning than I remembered. Thankfully surrounded by easy parking and fab dining options. The decor and architecture kept me intrigued the whole evening. Fortunately, I was accompanied by a member, so we were able to purchase wine. I look forward to returning. read more

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Just saw the Bernadette Peters Show. Sound system perfect. Audience was alive with energy for the entire show, Many guests had the LARGE bucket or popcorn Entire experience a Ten read more

Wonderful, magical concert. Venue Staff outstanding, pleasant and most accommodating. read more

An absolute iconic gem in Ann Arbor! I love you Michigan Theater! A stunning space, host of the Ann Arbor Film Fest, which I attended last year virtually, so I actually haven't yet seen an actual movie here, but I have come here for conferences before since their auditoriums double as stages as well! This place is gorgeous and chock full of history. It has all the charm of those old-timey theaters that I absolutely love, and I hope Michigan Theater remains standing for years, decades, and millennia to come! :) read more

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I miss going to the movies more than anything else during this pandemic. My husband and I had regular date nights to check out a great new flick with a big ol' bucket of popcorn. And my most missed venue? The Michigan Theatre. For all the incredible programming they offer. Art house flicks? Check. Foreign? Check. Classic films or timely seasonal programming? Check and check. Plus loads of other amazing special events like concerts, speaking engagements via Penny Stamps, comedians, and more. It's an incredible institution we're lucky to have in our backyard. And did I mention it's absolutely gorgeous inside, too? Plus the concessions can't be beat. The popcorn is aces and they offer local snacks and candy (shout out to those Zingerman's Candy ZZang bars!) and, of course, beer and wine! So yes, I'm sad I haven't been able to go to the Michigan Theatre in a while. But you know what rules? They have virtual screening options! Yes, I can support the Michigan theatre and indie filmmakers from the safety of my own quarantine by renting a stream of the movie of my choice in their line up. You can read all about current and upcoming options at michtheater.org/screenings. Until I can be back in their gorgeous theatre, this will just have to do. I do miss that popcorn a lot tho! read more

Beautiful historic building in Ann Arbor downtown with a retro flair .. Liked the detail and effort put toward maintaining the old grandeur .. Gorgeous interiors and clean atmosphere .. First time there with a friend who had yelp passes for "58th Ann Arbor Film Festival sneak peak preview ".. A classic piece of Ann Arbor history located near the UOM campus with many restaurants and coffee shops around .. read more

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First time here for the Ann Arbor Film Festival sneak preview through Yelp.They had handed over the tickets for the festival after checking their guest list and encouraged to take some gear and brochures . They had some light refreshments and introduced a few film makers and screened some trailers of the films which will be screened. Pros: -------- Amazing Architecture( Vintage Vibes) Cool staff Clean restrooms Great for photoshoots In Downtown Lot of food spots around Cons: ------ None to me read more

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So happy to be in the best College Town in the Midwest. IMHO. Went to the movies at the beautiful Michigan theater, on Liberty St. Went to see the movie The Public, starring Emilio Estevez. Mr. Estevez also produced and directed the film. Nicely done drama. The popcorn is always freshly made here I think it's pretty delicious! They have great offers for Michigan Theater members, such as bring a friend for free on Mondays, bar access, discount tickets, invited to specials & events and more!! Historic landmark!! read more

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Such a fun theater to watch a movie in! So nostalgic and grand. We saw Marcel the Shell with Shoes On and it was a joy. Mask mandate is still in play (Aug 2022) but they have masks for you if you forget to bring one. A great place to see any kind of movie!! read more

Michigan Theater - Cinema Near Me - Ann Arbor, Michigan

Please support this theater so we can have a downtown in Ann Arbor with some cultural and historical relevance. The memberships give many benefits and you can join a beloved community that appreciates art and culture. read more

Really excellent old-school theatre. It's the upscale version of the Redford Theatre. The variety of things they show is really impressive, the place is always clean, and the concessions are more reasonably priced than big chains. They even have alcohol, although you need to be a member to purchase that. However, they sell basic memberships for only $5, which is well worth it if you go even two or three times a year! read more

I thought it was ridiculous that masks were still required! If it wasn't for Kelly Ripa being there- I wouldn't have went! I definitely won't be back, read more

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Fun place to see shows in Ann Arbor. From mid level hands to movies, they offer a variety of options. I was fortunate enough to see OAR here and it was a great venue for them. The acoustics sounded good and the drinks/food aren't as expensive as they are at major venues. Super cool architecture and all of the employees are friendly. Never had a bad experience here. Bathrooms and amenities are always clean. Arrive a few minutes before your show and just check out the venue, it's very different than your average theater. read more

Michigan Theater - Cinema Near Me - Ann Arbor, Michigan

It's really nice to see a restored theater like this; they even had an organist playing in the auditorium before the trailers began. I was not particularly thrilled that a sign outside said the box office opened at 3:55, but it did not until after 4:00. Management could have at least popped their heads out to say they were running behind. read more

This is such a great venue. Everyone should make it a point to see a movie or a live show in the main theater. It will take you back 100 years. It's beautiful and well kept. The smaller viewing rooms are also wonderful experiences too. I love independent films and appreciate organizations that provide the opportunity for all to view. read more

Purchased tickets in person only to have to immediately request a refund because the vaccination policy was not made clear until you get inside the building. Can't say I agree with mandatory vaccination just to see a movie either. read more

What a beautiful place to watch a moving picture! I can imagine what a thrill it was for people in the roaring 20's to dress up and file into this gorgeous theater to watch their favorite silent film stars on the big screen. I can imagine it, because the Michigan Theatre has been lovingly restored to it's original 1928 glory, right down to the magnificent Barton pipe organ! Although the movies shown here today include the hottest, most popular new releases, I was lucky enough on my first visit to see an old black and white classic, It's A Wonderful Life, during the holidays. The seats are plenty comfy, even if they don't recline or rock. And there was nothing old school about the sound and picture quality. It's a beautiful auditorium with additional seating in the balcony. read more

I love the fact that Michigan Theater is managed by a non-profit organization that is determined to preserving its heritage. The Screening Room, where the films showed, has amazing decor with the likenesses of non-existent movie theaters from the area, lining the ceiling. The second floor of this "theater palace" is pretty stunning as well. One can easily imagine sweeping down the stairs, dressed up to the nines. Have been here three times so far: for the Manhattan Film Festival last year, for a Korea Cinema Now showing of The Age of Shadows, and just now for La La Land. It was an especially fitting venue to catch the Film Festival (oh so indie! And we actually enjoyed it as well; it had imaginative and relatable film shorts) and La La Land (a homage to retro musical movies) here. I find that the tickets for regular films have been reasonably priced for this historical venue, with tickets for M-F matinees before 6pm on non-holidays at $7, student/children/senior citizen price at $8 and the general price at $10 (http://www.michtheater.org/tickets/). Some tips: - The film showings did not have fixed seating, so go a little earlier to snag a good seat. - You might want to plan ahead to try to catch an organist playing before show time. The organist doesn't play for all shows. You can check here for the organist schedule and try to sync your film slot (http://www.michtheater.org/organ-schedule/), although it might be difficult to determine where your event will be screened beforehand (whether in the large Main Auditorium, or the smaller Screening Room). - The Korea Cinema Now series that's currently going on has sponsored (i.e. free for you!) showings of curated popular or award-winning Korean movies, so it's a perfect time to check the theater out. Get more details on the Michigan Theater website: http://www.michtheater.org/limited-engagements/. read more

Michigan Theater - Walk up from E Liberty St for that sense of anticipation going to the Michigan Theater. - Cinema Near Me - Ann Arbor, Michigan

It's a great place to catch independent films, new screenings of classics, or the offerings of one of the numerous film festivals. The building itself is as exciting as whatever film might be showing, so if you haven't been here before, it's worth arriving early just to have a look around. I discovered the Michigan Theater when The Blair Witch Project played there. And had a really weird experience when one of my friends dragged me into Naqoyqatsi. Just a couple of the films that independent theaters make possible. There aren't as many one-screen theaters in the Midwest as there used to be, but Ann Arbor has two that are still open and they are a block apart. The other one is the State Theater, at the corner of State and Liberty. (The Michigan Theater has technically had two screens since the screening room was added in 1999.) read more

Michigan Theater - Cinema Near Me - Ann Arbor, Michigan

Full disclosure, I love this theater. Used to play Michigan Pops Orchestra concerts here when I attended UM, too, so I've been both on stage and in the audience. The majority of the Cinetopia film fest movies that I saw last weekend were here, and I was glad to reconnect with an "old friend." I will say the Screening Room is my new favorite theater there, as it has more leg room than the main room, but both are good. I love the chandelier and the staircase and pretty much EVERYTHING about this theater. One new thing I learned this time is that they have wine and spirits for $5 to buy, which isn't awful, and beer for $4, as well as your standard fare like popcorn, candy, etcetera. I'll be back here to see a movie the next time I'm in Ann Arbor and wanting to see one. read more

Oddly enough, I've yet to see a movie at the Michigan Theater. I have seen a couple concerts and my all time favorite comedian (Brian Regan) here though. I think I'm lucky enough to have odd taste in shows, because I've never been seated anywhere but the main floor. It's a nice cozy feel for a concert or comedy show. I would definitely go back. read more

I have been to this theater twice before but neither was for a live event. Last night, 11/02/11 The Civil Wars were on stage. I like the group and volunteered to work the mech table for the free ticket, but that wasn't the best part. Selling stuff was fun, but when The Civil Wars took the stage, and I walked into the theater, it was like there was an energy humming over the crowd. The accustics were amazing! Particularly for a duo that is all about harmonies, The Michigan Theater was a great venue. Medium size venue with intimate feel. This concert was much more alive and upbeat than I ever expected it would or could be. Such a wonderful surprise and memorable concert. If I am ever on the fence about seeing a live performance and they come to Michigan Theater, I will be more likely to buy the ticket. read more

This old theater is beautiful. A reminder of days past. You are greeted by a friendly employee in an outdoor ticket booth. Year round, in Michigan. In the main theater, an organist plays "Suwannee River" only to disappear as he's lowered into the floor at the end of his set. Ornate walls give you something to look at besides the backs of people's heads in front of you, due to the gentle slant of the floor. Unless you head to the balcony, from which I watched Henry Rollins drone on and on just over a decade ago. Then there are the leg cramping seats. Forget crossing your legs if you're tall. Though it isn't all that comfy, this theater has personality in spades. A glorious throwback to the days when we didn't need cushy lounge chairs with cup holders and booming surround sound to help create an ambiance for a movie. It's just you, your fellow movie-goers, a tub of popcorn, and a great movie, or Henry Rollins, because I read he's coming back through with a stop at this awesome theater. read more

Michigan Theater - Pre show organist -- love it!! - Cinema Near Me - Ann Arbor, Michigan

This was the perfect venue to watch The Great Gatsby. The theater is absolutely stunning. High ceilings, big decorations, beautiful molding and small details. Walking into this theater is like walking back in time. Even their tickets are classic little paper stubs. There's no stadium seating, but what do you expect from a place this old. When I walked in, there was a pianist playing classic tunes like putting on the ritz on an old organ at the side of the screen. Truthfully, with the kind of movies the Michigan theater usually stocks I was surprised to find this more mainstream title and that they were showing it in 3D. I'll be watching many more movies here. read more

Michigan Theater - Cinema Near Me - Ann Arbor, Michigan

This is, by far, one of my most favorite places in Ann Arbor. A full-on gilded movie palace, the theater itself is worth the price of admission. Even the lobby is golden, with high ceilings, beautiful lighting and giant sweeping staircases. Their popcorn is some of the best in town, and the prices for both refreshments and movie tickets are pretty reasonable. Purchasing a membership gets you drinking privileges (beer and wine), as well as additional perks such as discounts. We headed here to see ET on the big screen a few weeks ago, on Valentine's Day. The crowd of children was so amazingly excited, with parents and kids alike all in a good mood. As the first female (and very young!) theater organist concluded her set and the lights dimmed, my fella turned to me and reiterated how much he loved this theater, this town, our community. It's places like this that can remind you of that, no question! read more

I have to say, I love the Michigan Theater. In my time spent living in Ann Arbor, I frequented this venue a good 5 or 6 times. Though I'm not a huge fan of independent films, my first trip occurred when my friends and I decided to check out "Atonement" here. I was not only happy with the movie, but I fell in love with the venue. At first, I had been afraid it would be like The State theater just down the street, but it is so different. The ceiling architecture is beautiful, and the spaciousness of the rooms allow sound to resonate beautifully. I especially enjoyed when different clubs at school would perform their shows here. This and Hill Auditorium are my two favorite concert venues in Ann Arbor and, aside from maybe the FOX theater in Detroit, probably my favorites that I've visited ever. I wish I had taken a little more advantage of them when I was living a five minute walk away... read more

Although I made it to the Michigan Theater as a result of the Ann Arbor Film Festival, I really don't feel I can rate the festival based on one program, although the "kid" program that I saw was exceptional and I look forward to catching more of the festival next year. What I really want to talk about is the Michigan Theater. What a beautiful old theater. It hearkens back to the days when theaters had balconies, seated thousands of people, and had beautiful decor....oh and they have a theater organ.... how cool is that! It used to be an event to go to the theater. Nowadays theaters are little more than over sized private screening rooms. That special excitement of going to a theater is pretty much gone forever, but can live on at the Michigan Theater. Oh, and popcorn.... hot, fresh, real butter. I wasn't sure what do do with it... I finally decided to eat it. Reasonable pricing on all of the goodies. I think I need to spend more time at the Michigan Theater. read more

One of southeastern Michigan's most glorious public spaces! You must check out this fully restored 1928 movie palace. It's a movie theater, concert hall and rental venue, but if you none of those things draw you in, just ask a staff member for an impromptu tour. Okay, so I'm a bit biased because I worked there for 5 years. You know why? Because I loved just being in that building! Even considering all the great concerts and movies I've seen there, my favorite moments were during the quiet off hours. I could really savor the gold leaf on the ceiling, the dramatic arc of the proscenium, the sound of an organist rehearsing in the main auditorium. Of course, do check out their amazing program of films and events. It's true, the main theater sound quality is not stellar (remember, it was built for silent films), but how can you turn down a pre-screening pipe organ concert? I've seen some amazing, unforgettable live performances - from David Byrne to Dave Chappelle. But my favorites are the classic film screenings. Watching a Hitchcock film from the balcony just feels right. Also, they have the best popcorn. Ever. The Michigan Theater has ruined me for all other popcorn. They use real butter! read more

The ambience of the Michigan Theater is pretty cool. That's the only thing keeping me from giving this place 0 stars. There's a noise ordinance in the city, I think it's 10pm. The only alcohol they serve can be consumed in the lobby, and you have to sign up for their "club" and pay $5 to join it. And the acoustics are just god awful. We went last night to see Flight of the Conchords and we were in the balcony and we couldn't hear anything. I've never been so disappointed for a show I was so looking forward to. I've seen a lot of concerts there, and I never cease to leave unhappy. Every. Single. Time. It's unfortunate that such a cool city would have such an uptight venue within its borders. The city draws the good acts, but the venue keeps me away. read more

I've been going irregularly to the Michigan Theater for the past year and its just flat-out gorgeous with all the red and gold inside. Most of the highlights of the theater have been covered in the other reviews but some additional personal notes -plenty of seating in the main theater although the springs are shot in some of the seats -do have the popcorn and always say yes to extra butter if asked -heart the student discount and what I believe are Discount Wednesday (although I think these may be floater days) -if you miss a showing, most likely it'll be at the State Theater -stay alert for film series (Film Noir, Classic Movies, International Film, etc) read more

I've had the pleasure of going to the Michigan Theater a handful of times. Boys who take me on dates here get extra points because it is a great spot in Ann Arbor. I think this is ten times better than going to a regular corporate chain movie house, because, well, it is one of a kind. Uniqueness always gets extra points (or stars in this case). I think of the color red when I think of the Michigan Theater. It is plush and fantastic inside. The seating isn't stadium, so if that is a huge sticking point for you, beware. I've seen Lemony Snicket here, as well as several indie movies and the quality of those performances only speaks volumes about a place that chooses to show them. Support your local theater! read more