Motor City Theatre Organ Society
The Motor City Theatre Organ Society (MCTOS) is a non-profit organization committed to the preservation and operation of the historic Redford Theatre in Detroit, Michigan, and the promotion of theatre pipe organ music and classic film. Founded to ensure the continued use of a rare instrument and a significant piece of Detroit’s architectural heritage, the society has become a vital part of the city’s cultural landscape.
History
The story of the Motor City Theatre Organ Society is inextricably linked to the Redford Theatre, which opened on January 27, 1928, as a neighborhood movie house[1]. The theatre was designed to be a unique suburban playhouse, boasting a three-story grand foyer and a full-size stage. It quickly became a local entertainment hub. As the decades passed, many theatres across the country began to fall into disrepair or were demolished, and theatre pipe organs – once a standard feature in large movie palaces – were often removed and sold off for parts. The Redford Theatre, however, retained its original 1928 Barton pipe organ[2].
Recognizing the rarity of a fully intact theatre and organ, the Motor City Theatre Organ Society formed with the specific intention of acquiring and preserving the Redford Theatre. The society became the owner and operator of the theatre, ensuring its continued operation and the maintenance of the Barton organ[3]. The organization’s founding members understood the importance of protecting this piece of Detroit’s history and providing a venue for the enjoyment of theatre organ music and classic films. The Redford Theatre’s survival is a direct result of the MCTOS’s dedication and the efforts of its all-volunteer staff.
Attractions
The primary attraction at the Redford Theatre is the meticulously restored 1928 Barton pipe organ. This instrument, a three-manual, ten-rank design, is a significant example of theatre organ craftsmanship[4]. The organ is regularly featured in concerts, accompanying silent films and providing a unique musical experience for audiences. The theatre hosts a classic film series, offering screenings of beloved movies in a beautifully restored setting. The Redford Theatre is also available for rental for special events, providing a distinctive venue for weddings, corporate functions, and other gatherings.
Beyond the organ and film screenings, the Redford Theatre itself is an attraction. The theatre’s architecture, including the grand foyer and auditorium, has been carefully preserved, offering visitors a glimpse into the elegance of the 1920s[5]. The theatre’s restoration has been an ongoing process, with proceeds from programs and rentals being reinvested into the building’s upkeep. The Redford Theatre provides a unique cultural experience, combining the artistry of theatre organ music, the nostalgia of classic films, and the beauty of a historic architectural gem.
Culture
The Motor City Theatre Organ Society plays a crucial role in preserving a unique aspect of American musical and cinematic culture – the theatre pipe organ and the tradition of accompanying silent films with live music[6]. The society’s dedication extends beyond simply maintaining the instrument; it actively promotes the understanding and enjoyment of this art form through concerts, educational programs, and community outreach. The Redford Theatre serves as a venue for showcasing the versatility of the theatre organ, demonstrating its ability to replicate the sounds of an entire orchestra.
The MCTOS also contributes to the preservation of classic films, providing a venue for screenings that allow audiences to experience these movies as they were originally intended – on the big screen and often accompanied by live music[7]. This commitment to both musical and cinematic heritage helps to maintain a connection to the past and provides a cultural experience that is increasingly rare in the modern era. The all-volunteer staff underscores the society’s commitment, demonstrating a community-driven effort to preserve and celebrate the arts.
Economy
The Motor City Theatre Organ Society operates as a non-profit organization, relying on donations, membership fees, and proceeds from events to fund its operations[8]. The organization’s economic impact extends beyond its own financial sustainability. The Redford Theatre contributes to the local economy by attracting visitors to the surrounding neighborhood, supporting local businesses, and providing employment opportunities, albeit primarily volunteer positions. The theatre’s rental services also generate revenue and contribute to the local event industry.
The ongoing restoration and maintenance of the Redford Theatre create demand for skilled tradespeople, such as carpenters, electricians, and restoration specialists[9]. The society’s commitment to preserving a historic building not only benefits the cultural landscape but also supports local economic activity. The Redford Theatre serves as a catalyst for revitalization in the surrounding area, demonstrating the economic value of cultural preservation.
Getting There
The Redford Theatre is located at 17360 Lahser Road, Detroit, MI 48219[10]. The theatre is accessible by car, with parking available in the surrounding area. Public transportation options are limited, but local bus routes serve the general vicinity. Detailed directions are available on the theatre’s website[11].
Visitors traveling from outside the Detroit metropolitan area can access the Redford Theatre via Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW). From the airport, rental cars and taxi services are readily available. The theatre is situated in a residential neighborhood, offering a relatively quiet and accessible location. The surrounding area provides a variety of dining and lodging options for visitors.