About The Michigan Theater Foundation
The Michigan Theater Foundation was established to save the Michigan Theater from the wrecking ball in 1979, when developers threatened to convert the theater into a food court. Over forty years later, the Michigan Theater is proud to serve as the community gathering place for the greater Ann Arbor area. Over 300,000 guests attend movies, plays, music and comedy concerts, talks, meetings, parties, weddings and other events each year.
Our Mission
The Michigan Theater Foundation is a non-profit organization whose mission is joyfully serving community, history, public storytelling & the arts.
History of the Michigan Theater
The story of the historic Michigan Theater is an example of a community’s vision, creativity, and determination succeeding over the bleakness of decline, indifference, and decay. It is a drama of successful rebirth, conceived through active community involvement, nurtured by a unique mix of cultural programming and brought to maturity through dynamic community support.
Working at The Michigan Theater Foundation
The Michigan Theater Foundation prides itself on a fun and creative work environment for customer-service oriented, talented and diverse staff. Check out what positions we are currently hiring, but we are always looking for front-of-house staff. For those applications, please stop by either theater and ask for an application.
Awards
Outstanding Individual Contribution Award
League of Historic American Theatres
2019, Russ Collins
Detroit Arts Challenge Recipient
The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
2013, 2014, 2017, 2018, Cinetopia Film Festival
Ambassador Award
Ann Arbor Conventions and Visitor’s Bureau
2017, Michigan Theater
Best Local Film Festival
The Detroit Metro Times
2015-2016, Cinetopia Film Festival
Sundance Film Festival USA Official Venue
Sundance Film Festival
2010-2014, Michigan Theater
Indiewire Influencer
Indiewire
2013, Russ Collins
Outstanding Historic Theatre Award
League of Historic American Theatres
2006, Michigan Theater
State History Award and Outstanding Preservation and Restoration Award
Historical Society of Michigan
2005, Michigan Theater
Current
Board Members
Leslie Bash
Deborah Beuche, Vice Chair
Amanda Borsuk
Jamie Buhr, Chair
Jim Burnstein, ex officio
Russell B. Collins, ex officio, Secretary
Rik Cordero
Aaron Dworkin
Paul Freedman
Alan Harris
Marianne James, ex officio
Pat Jenkins
James A. Kirk
Jennifer Moore
Agnes Moy-Sarns
Hillary Murt
Jean P. Rowan, M.D., M.S.
Chip Smith, ex officio
Jim Sterken, Treasurer
Christopher Taylor, ex officio
Alicia Torres
Kathy White
Emeritus
Board Members
Henry Aldridge
Alec Allen
Bruce Baker
Ruth Bardenstein
Albert Berriz
John Briggs
Lou Callaway
Martha Darling
C. Wendell (Del) Dunbar
Judy Dow Rumelhart
Irv Smokler
Ron Weiser
Robert F. Whitman
Financial Information (Reports and Form 990) | Strategic Plan | Cadillac Building Update