The Theatre opened as the Stage Door Cinemas October 31st 1974 with the film Day of the Dolphin starring George C Scott. it was in independant theatre owned by 2 Union Lake Businessmen Dr Irwin Posner and David Moss a local pharmacist.
The opening Manager had many roles, including Theatre Manager, part time janitor, Projectionist, advertising exec who had to place all the ads with the local newspapers. This also included running to the old film exchange for fresh content and supplies. This was not close-by, but was down at the old Packard Plant near Hamtramck. The assistant mangers also held much of these duties as well and it wasn't always an easy task.
Mid-2000's view of the Union Lake Twin
The staff had many challenges with the building itself, as the facility's heating and cooling system never could quite work the way it was supposed to. It was challenging for the patrons too because during the cold winter months, many patrons had to wear their jackets inside the theatre itself, and the lobby was unbearably cold.
Remains of the Concession Stand (above) and Lobby (below)
This theatre was operated under a few different owners in the 70s and 80s. The last attempt being in the late 1980s or early 1990s, and finally was closed for a time due to the financial losses that were incurred with the location as a theatre. The best intentions sometimes do not equate into a success, and this location as a theatre, was a prime example of that, so its said.
One of the Auditoriums
Upstairs in the Grants shopping center plaza were businesses that had expanded from other locations, including a Sub Sandwich shop that originated in Farmington, a Pet Store, as well as a Video Game Arcade.
Behind this theatre was a giant slide for kids to slide down. Unfortunately, once the area became run down in the late 80s, the slide and other attractions were removed from the site.
Projection Equipment
The building has since been remodeled and repurposed into another business within the last few years, and it has regained life with people and patrons once again. Within the remodeled facility there are a couple small-sized theatres, a Sports Bar, and a Gameroom with seating and arcade-style games within the 18,260sq. ft building.
The venue is no longer used for films as it once was, but live entertainment such as Comedy acts and Live bands from around the Metro Detroit area.
*Information and Image Sources: WaterWinterWonderland.com, James Hall, CinemaTreasures.com, Google
One of the many things that can be said of this small theatre, it is most-definitely
a wonderful and history-filled part of Michigan and Metro Detroit.
That history includes the fond memories that will live on for many years to come.