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Home » Theater Guide » Location » United States » Michigan » Detroit » Center Theater
Also known as Trans-Lux Theater

Center Theater

Detroit, MI
6540 Woodward Avenue
, Detroit, MI, United States
(map)
Status: Closed
Screens: Single Screen
Style: Art Deco
Function: Retail
Seats: 700
Chain: Unknown
Architect: Thomas W. Lamb
Firm: Unknown
Add a photo for this theater!
Opened in 1932 as the Trans-Lux, this branch of the popular newsreel circuit seated a little over 340. It was designed by Thomas W. Lamb -- his only work in the city of Detroit.

The Trans-Lux had a feature which was advertised as "daylight projection" (actually rear projection), so that theater-goers were able to move around the smallish auditorium without it being overly darkened.

In 1934, the "daylight projection" system was taken out in favor of a standard projection booth. Seating was also increased to 700 and it was renamed the Center.

Growing interest in television spelled the end of the Center, and it was shuttered some time in the 1960s.

The former theater was later converted for retail use, and today houses a thrift shop.
Contributed by Bryan Krefft

YOUR COMMENTS

 
The Center was open in the 60's because I distinctly remember it as being one of the few theatres open for a certain movie that I wanted to see. It is not in existance now, but it was most definately open in the 60's.
posted by brian74 on Jun 14, 2004 at 5:12am
The Center theatre listed above at 6540 Woodward was located South of the Boulevard (west-east grand blvd), and was converted to retail space in the late 40's. The Regent theatre @ 7314 Woodward was renamed the "Center" in 1961, and retained that name until it was demolished in 1975. The two theatres were only a few blocks apart, and both were named "center" as they were located in what is still called the new center area of Detroit.
posted by john lauter on Apr 2, 2006 at 5:34pm
Building is for sale on loopnet:
http://tinyurl.com/clsbl5
posted by ken mc on Mar 2, 2009 at 3:12pm
No price and no build date. What a way to sell a property.

posted by Lost Memory on Mar 2, 2009 at 3:15pm
That's an old picture as well.
posted by ken mc on Mar 2, 2009 at 3:17pm
It's been listed since 2001. Time for a new photo.

posted by Lost Memory on Mar 2, 2009 at 3:18pm
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