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Fox Theatre
Categories: Arts & Entertainment Performing Arts Arts & Entertainment Music Venues Nightlife Music Venues Performing Arts, Music Venues [Edit]
2211 Woodward AveDetroit, MI 48201
Neighborhood: Downtown Detroit
(313) 596-3204
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage, Private Lot
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- Yes
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
29 reviews for Fox Theatre
29 reviews in English
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Review from Annette J.
Dearborn Heights, MI
Updated - 11/7/2011 4 Check-ins Here
Well, after sitting in the last row at the Fox last night I can officially say there is not a bad seat in the house. Sure, they're a little close together (aka, not much leg room) but you can see and hear perfectly. Of course you're high but it's not like you can't see anything. I found it to be perfectly acceptable, especially for the price. So if there's a show you're interested in going to but don't have the cash, don't be afraid to get those balcony tickets--you won't be disappointed.
Listed in: Detroit Delights, Fun Nights Out, Special Occasions!, Get Cultured!, Music Spots for the Soul
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/12/2011
What can be said about the Fox that hasn't been said before? This place is AMAZING. So, beautiful.… Read more »
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Review from Luna M.
7/15/2011 3 photos
You just may have an architecturally-induced orgasm here. The foreplay starts as soon as you walk past the front doors into the foyer. Lots of build up is to be had in the lobby, then expect to be in the full throes of ornate pleasure when hit your seat. The Fox Theatre is smokin' HOT. I think my favorite part was the giant gilded elephant head with the crown on it above the stage. The most incredible detail can be found in the smallest of places too. Bring some cigarettes, because you're gonna need them for when you leave.
What brought me to the Fox was the Perfect Circle show last Friday. The sound was great, the band was technically good, but the music was all still boring as hell to me as most of the songs maintained the same slow-medium tempo. I definitely prefer Tool. Anyway, I excused myself a number of times to get beer and go to the bathroom to break up the monotony. This allowed me to spend some of that time looking around, hanging out and staring at walls, corners, ceilings, fixtures, etc. Albeit with some minor interruption from random drunk people trying to talk to me. I definitely became curious about the overall design because there seemed to be a lot of mixed styles. I looked up some info when I got home and it is indeed a "blend of Burmese, Chinese, Indian and Persian motifs." That is, if you want to believe what Wikipedia has to say on the matter.
Parking in the lot/garage to the left of the Fox was $15. We were informed we could remain parked there up to an hour after the show was out. I liked that there were a lot of concession areas inside, but only the ones in the lobby take credit cards. A 24-oz. domestic beer cracked from a can and poured into a plastic cup will set you back $8.50. They sold some alcohol and wine too along with very limited eats like chips (by the cash bars). There were plenty of stalls in the ladies room and I never had to wait in line, which was nice. They had some sofas and chairs scattered about the place to get off your feet too.
There were plenty of ushers of the senior/upper middle-aged kind that I saw. However, not many in the form of visible and capable security. Though it was a sold out show, the row we were in towards the front on the floor had about 5 or so empty seats by our location. By the middle of the show some people were trying to make their way forward to get into those seats and others. I did see a couple of ushers leading some people back up. One of the times I was gone though, 2 very over-served individuals tried to plant themselves next to us, specifically by my seat and my very non-thug BF told them repeatedly to move because I was coming back. First nicely, then not so nicely. A brouhaha ensued which subsequently involved the DPD to be called. Beautiful. Well, at least I got to check out the lobby some more while they were writing up their report.
In any event, despite what went down when we went, the Fox Theatre is very much an over-the-top and beyond classy place. A definitely must-see if you're ever in Detroit. Many thanks to the Ilitchs for the incredible restoration too! -
Review from Scott H.
Royal Oak, MI
Fox is an incredibly important anchor for downtown Detroit. This is based solely on a few simple facts.
Ambiance: The theater is STUNNING. Walking in to the lobby takes me back to Detroit's glorious days in the first couple decades of the 20th century. Picture sheer opulance.
The sound. The acoustics in the theater are great and the acts they bring in are top knotch.
The overall help: From the bar to the ushers (and even some of the security) everyone seems to be honestly helpful. -
Review from Michelle I.
Farmington, MI
10/20/2010
The Fox Theatre is synonymous with class, history and nostalgia of Dynamic Detroit's glorious past. (Almost) Every former child of the metro Detroit has fond memories of getting all dressed up and seeing the Nutcracker or Sesame Street Live in this grandiose theatre.
Thinking back, I always remember how fancy everything seemed and how prim and proper one should act since I "was" in the Fox Theatre.
Going to a performance at the Fox is still a treat for me. I love that I have seen everything from Bjork and The Gorlliaz to Elmo and Grover within the same space. Sound is typically pretty good. Someone recently told me how the theatre was actually built for optimal sound quality. Seats are comfy and sometimes the Mezzanine seating may be best for a good view of the stage. With recent concerts there, they do allow you to bring your drinks to your seats...perfect since the large $8 beers should be sipped (even though they are Budweiser pish) and not slammed.
Still haven't been to a show here? Put on your big boy pants and go! This historic gem is worth the drive, the price of the tickets and cramped neck (which you get as you stare up at the FOX sign). -
Review from Vycki R.
6/24/2010
Majestic, grandiose. The Fox has been a venue of choice for me, not that I have many choices living where I do, for decades. I chose mezzanine seats for this particular concert so that I wouldn't have to grumble at those standing in front of me, and it was a wise choice. Mezzanine can be pricier than main floor, but worth it. The lovely spiral staircases thrill me every time, the feel of beautifully carved wood, the dazzling colour, a kaleidoscope of sculpture in all its glory. Now, what I truly love about this place is the ushers. Elderly, well-dressed, patient, and non-ushering in a way...more like a well-rehearsed maitre-d'...in a great mood...
Here you can take your cocktail with you to your seat...
Always a pleasure... -
Review from Shane M.
Ann Arbor, MI
3/10/2011
The Fox theatre has been a beacon in Detroit ever since I first went when I was a kid, since then I've seen various musicals and performances (most recently Flight of the Conchords, RAIN). Through the years it has been great to see the vast improvements that have been made to the surrounding areas as the Fox has shined throughout.
Prices on concessions are very high. Parking isn't bad though. I think the experience is worth it, just eat before you go :P -
Review from Sarah W.
Brooklyn, NY
5/17/2008 ROTD 11/22/2008
No one has mentioned these two interesting things:
I never got to see a show here. What I loved about Fox Theatre was Club X. Maybe it is embarrassing to admit. But back in my clubbing days I loved coming out here on Saturday and seeing this place transformed into this massive dance floor. I spent many weekends out here. You only had to be eighteen to get in and you could totally drink here. (As long as you weren't doing the buying.)
Out of Sight with Jennifer Lopez had a scene filmed here too. -
Review from Katie W.
Detroit, MI
2/9/2010
The Fox still stands strong as a gorgeous, intricate venue. I really like the Fox, but there are a few things that stood out in my mind on my most recent visit here to see Sesame Street Live.
Parking in the Fox Structure is $15.
The seats need to be replaced or reupholstered, and spaced out more so that people can get into their rows without the others moving. Thank goodness we had seats only a couple rows from the stage. But, unfortunately we were the ones who had to continuously stand up and move for the other people to get by.
The upholstery makes me think of bedbugs. It's about time for Plan B.
The inside is just beautiful and I especially loved the breathtaking ceiling, specially decorated with smiling elmo balloons in the nooks and crannies! =) -
Review from T. D.
Manhattan, NY
7/25/2011
Woohoo! As good as it gets!
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Review from Tyler B.
5/5/2008
The Fox is a beautiful, immaculate venue for performances of all shapes and sizes. Here's the one rub you have to remember - the shows start on time.
Now that may seem like a plus to most of you. But if your stock in trade is rock shows, you must be prepared for the Fox. For most venues, you look at the time posted on the ticket, and add 30 minutes for the first band to start, 30 minutes per band for their set, 20 minutes in between band for changeover, and and extra 20 for the headliner to 'decide' to take the stage. This means if the ticket says 8 and you only want to see the headliner and not the two openers, you arrive at 10. Don't make this mistake at the Fox. If the ticket says 8, that's when the first band will go on, to be preceded immediately by the headliner. Which as long as you know that, is OK. I guess. -
Review from Brooke C.
Grand Ledge, MI
This place is amazing! The architecture is ornate and colorful. I highly recommend it for a show. Not a bad seat in the house.
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Review from Annie B.
Saint Clair Shores, MI
3/2/2010
The FOX is unbelieveably gorgeous and ornate on the inside....like nothing I have ever seen before.
And the FOX sign on top of the building? I could literally stare at it for hours. One time before christmas, it was candy cane striped. CANDY CANES! -
Review from Tiffany D.
Detroit, MI
10/12/2008 1 photo
Really, a stunning venue. I'm almost speechless!
Most shows there are more formal, which is good because it should be required that you be dressed up to enter into the theater. The main level seating is comfortable although there isn't much leg room and you will have to stand up if anyone needs to exit or enter your row.
There are multiple balconies, so if you can avoid being at the very top one, you'll enjoy the show that much more. For the Michael Buble show we were in the very top balcony and I wanted to cry. Thankfully our seats were upgraded to the main floor 10 minutes before the show started. It made all the difference. -
Review from Jay S.
Grand Rapids, MI
5/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
I have never been in a more impressive or classier place in my life. It is the true treasure of Detroit. If have never been to an event in the Fox Theatre, you need to find an excuse to go there. It is breath taking.
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Review from matthew f.
Oakland, CA
7/18/2007
The Fox Theater is legendary and lives up to the reputation. Located in the downtown of Detroit, it is one of the few places to have held its chin high, while downtown was hurting. This is the place where you put on your best clothes and take your lady. I went to see Michael Buble, and I have to say, it was as though it was where you were supposed to see him. The theatre is opulent and ornate with Egyptian motif. The acoustics are fantastic. Hands down my favorite venue to see a performance, the Fox outclasses everywhere else I have been, and that includes the Pantages in Toronto.
If you have the chance to go to the Fox, realize this is one of those really special occasions. -
Review from Ariel S.
Brooklyn, NY
1/23/2011
One of the most beautifully designed buildings in the United States. Definitely pays tribute to the city Detroit once was.. Formally a cinema, it is, without question, my favorite music venue in the country.
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Review from Becki B.
10/11/2008
I love, love, love the gorgeous architecture and ambiance at the Fox Theatre, and I never pass up an opportunity to attend an event there. The Rockettes are a special favorite that I try to never miss during the holiday season.
It's hard not to feel beautiful when dressed up for a special night out in such a majestic setting. Even the 'powder room' feels fancier than anywhere else I've been.
As always bears mentioning for a downtown venue, the parking is convenient here and feels safe. The garage is just across the street. While you will be outside to cross the street, it's just a short jaunt outside. -
Review from Lisa W.
Flint, MI
8/2/2008 1 photo
I've seen a couple shows here, but the most memorable thing about this place is the way the interior is designed. If you don't already know I am a sucker for architecture, historical buildings, and ornate interiors.
Fox Theatre is the second largest theater in the US. The floor you walk on, the opulent pillars and ceiling -- I don't even know how to describe it. The gorgeous Wurlitzer organ, the details around the windows... brace yourself before you walk in because it is a visual feast. -
Review from Quinten C.
Detroit, MI
2/3/2011 5 Check-ins Here
Love going to plays and concerts here beautiful here and historic.
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Review from John N.
Dearborn, MI
1/31/2011
The Fox is gorgeous theater and a true gem in the Motor City. My only beefs are that it could use a bit more signage telling you where your seats are and that the seats are really cramped for any one over 5'10".
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Review from Vicki C.
Royal Oak, MI
3/24/2009
The Fox is such a beautiful theate, and I love the fact that my parents, grandparents and great-grandparents went there before I did. My Mom and grandma used to take me there to see restored movies like Ben Hur - amazing experience! The decor will make your jaw drop - gorgeous marble columns, real gold leaf and incredible mosaics. I am so, so happy that this building was renovated back in the 80's - it's one of the city's crown jewels! Definitely a place to take out-of-town guests, as well as to celebrate Detroit in its own right anytime!
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Review from Michelle W.
Grand Forks, ND
10/19/2009
Oh how I love the FOX theatre! Now that I've moved away from the Dirty D I still compare all the venues I go to in other cities to the FOX. I love the architecture! This is one of the few places I didn't mind arriving to early (my father is like 3 hours early to everything, which usually results in mind-numbing boredom, but not here!). Every time I go to this beautiful place I find something that I missed before. Whenever I'm home, if there is an event I'm interested in, I'm so there!!! Plus, there are great bars and restaurants not too far away for dinner and drinks pre or post your event!
Listed in: South East Michigan, Current Colosseums
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Review from Sasha V.
Dearborn, MI
9/14/2010
This is one of my favorite venues. Absolutely gorgeous architecture. Parking is sort of gouge-worthy, but it's a venue. I didn't expect to pay $5. I love coming here for shows, and this place is definitely one of the places to go in Detroit.
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Review from Duke A.
Detroit, MI
9/16/2007
Arguably the best theater in Detroit. It is a premier spot for first-class entertainers, popular concerts and shows. The beautifully designed interior by Howard Crane is truly the "wow" factor.
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Review from Lauren K.
Woodbine, GA
2/5/2010
Come on. If you've lived in detroit, or been to it, you HAVE to go see a show at the fox theatre. Its beautiful inside. And its so historic it's crazy. If you like off broadway or concerts, find one thats playing here. You wont be dissapointed
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Review from Athena K.
9/22/2009
People have already said it, the Fox is stunning, bueatiful, incredible. I saw Leonard Cohen here a few months ago and it was breathtaking.
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Review from Dave C.
Detroit, MI
8/11/2009
Stunning. That's it.
F.O. X. spells FOX -
Review from Nikki W.
Detroit, MI
8/15/2008 1 photo
There are only a few words in the English language that come to mind when I think of the Fox. Beautiful, stunning, breath-taking detail and architecture, to name a few. No matter the event I always enjoy myself at the Fox Theater. I was so happy when they restored it some years back. It is truly a historical monument (to me any way). I've had the opportunity to sit as close as the orchestra's pit and I highly recommend those tickets if you can get them. I've attended plays, musicals and concerts at the Fox and I have been satisfied with every visit!
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Review from Rob D.
Toledo, OH
1/10/2010
This is great concert venue. Truly a gem, the interior of this building is stunning. One band I saw here actually stopped at one point in the show to comment on how amazing it is. Drinks here are a little pricy (though most music venues are) thier pours for mixed drinks are not generous in any sense of hte word. One great feature is how they seperate the floor area for the rest of the first floor. The floor is lowered so that there is an area for both people who do not want to be in the thick of it all and those that do. Few places get this right and thus it creates a better experience for everyone no matter i they like being pushed up front or just hang back and enjoy the show.
