Redford Theatre

The Redford Theatre is a three-story movie palace in Detroit's Old Redford neighborhood with a grand lobby and ornate interior spaces. The main auditorium seats approximately 1,610 people and retains its original Barton organ along with period decorative details.

The theatre opened in 1928 as a showplace for the latest cinema technology and entertainment trends of that era. Its initial design reflected Asian influences, which were later modified as cultural preferences shifted in the following decades.

The venue serves as a gathering place where locals and visitors experience classic cinema and live musical performances together. This role connects the theatre to Detroit's tradition of community gathering spaces and public entertainment from earlier decades.

The venue hosts film screenings, organ concerts, and community events throughout the year that are open to the public. Visitors should check ahead for current programming and plan to arrive early to fully appreciate the ornate interior before the performances begin.

The ceiling features a mechanical system that creates the appearance of clouds drifting and stars twinkling above the audience during performances. This engineering detail reflects the ambition of 1920s theatre designers to transport viewers to another world.

Location: Detroit

Inception: 1928

Official opening: January 27, 1928

Address: 17360 Lahser Road, Detroit, MI 48219

Website: http://redfordtheatre.com

GPS coordinates: 42.41722,-83.25750

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:59