(MCH) The Radio City Theatre Traditional Cache
(MCH) The Radio City Theatre
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Michigan Cinema History:
The Radio City Theatre
22875 Woodward Avenue, Ferndale, MI 48220
OPENED: Feb 7, 1937 | CLOSED: Aug 31, 1977 | SEATS: 1000
The Radio City Theatre - 1937
About the only thing this 1,000 seat neighborhood theater had in common with its New York City namesake was that it was also built in Art Deco style. It opened in 1937, as part of the RKO circuit which included several other Metro Detroit area theatres like the RKO Downtown (which had been the Oriental) and the RKO Uptown (later known as the Six Mile Theatre). It was operated by Suburban Detroit Theatres through the 1960’s, which remodeled the Radio City in 1964.
Playbill from the Radio City opening night
The Radio City Theatre was a big attraction in the city with the showing of blockbuster hits of the day and would be a source for entertainment for over 30 years to the Ferndale area.
Main entrance to the Radio City
For many folks that would visit the Radio City, on any given Saturday you would have to give up 25 cents for admission, 10 cents for popcorn and pop, and in return add the double feature plus cartoons and previews, and you would equal an afternoon's entertainment for many of the local residents for most of the time the Theatre was here.
The Marquee in 1968
The special showings would consist of two feature films, 5 color cartoons, and a serial that continued each week through out the summer. There was also a wacky race clip. If you had recieved the number of the winning racer when you entered the theater you won a prize. If you were a member of the safety patrol at y0our school, you got free admission.
Radio City audience
The Radio City, to many, was the "Fancy Theatre", with the Ferndale Theatre (being referred to as not-so-fancy) across the street.
1964 view of the Radio City
A local resident recalls his memories of the Radio City Theatre:
"I can remember as a child in elementary school going on field trips to see Looney Tunes at the Radio City,
it was a fun time and enjoyment for all the students - especially the treats we received when we arrived.
Years later as a young teen, I can remember seeing tribute bands in concert performing
before the theater closed"
Mid 1940's view of the Radio City
It was closed, however, by the early-1970’s, and the would come for this wonderful showplace in 1975 when it would be demolished in favor of new retail space.
The Radio City Theatre was a very special place to many for many reasons because of the shows, the ambiance, or just the whole experience altogether and was a wonderful part of Metro Detroit
This is what makes it part of Michigan Cinema History.
IF you have any more information or details on this theatre,
please email me and i will include it in the description.
Thank you.
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