The Detroit Opera House Broadway Experience
- Feb 19, 2017
- 2 min read
The Detroit Opera House, with a capacity of 2,700 seats, hosts opera, classical concerts, and Broadway productions from Detroit. Originally opened in 1922 as the Capitol Theater, a movie palace, it features many Renaissance-style elements, including murals, large chandeliers, and decorative trim. In 1989, the Michigan Opera Theater acquired the building to establish its permanent home. Renovations in 1996 and 2006 restored the venue to its original splendor. The building has a condensed hexagon shape, and the lobby can feel cramped during larger performances, so it's advisable to arrive early if you wish to avoid large crowds in confined spaces. Generally, you can enjoy a great view of performances from most areas in the house. If seated further away, it might be slightly harder to see, but there are no obstructions blocking your view. The best spot is near the center but close to one of the aisles. In Broadway performances, this is often where some of the most surprises occur throughout the show. If you're looking for VIP options, there are several choices. The Cadillac Cafe Lounge offers an intermission and pre-show lounge experience for $40 per person, which includes a welcome drink, a charcuterie box, table seating, and complimentary coat check. There are also box-level experiences with dedicated cocktail servers and exclusive lounge access. For a premium experience, the Herman and Barbara Donor Lounge is available for members of the Dichiera Society and those who donate $3,000 annually. This experience includes a private bar, as well as pre-show, intermission, and post-show receptions. Overall, this is a fantastic historical venue, perfect for shows like The Lion King or The Phantom of the Opera.
Rating of The Venue:
Any Seat Can See The Stage: 4/5 Tikis
Concession Selection: 3.5/5 Tikis
The Cheapest Seats Are Comfortable: 3.5/5 Tikis
Bathroom Cleanliness: 5/5 Tikis
Parking Situation: 3/5 Tikis
Premium Seats / Club Level: 4/5 Tikis
Security Efficiency: 5/5 Tikis
Bag Policy / Security:
Bag policies at the Detroit Opera House vary by event, depending on the artist, promoter, or security needs. Some events may have a no-bag policy, while others allow small bags. For events permitting bags, inspections will be conducted on both bags and individuals.
Photos Of The Detroit Opera House:




