Wayne Theater
1927 Photo from the Matthew Wilkinson collection.
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35164 W Michigan Ave Wayne MI
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| Record #13329 |
Opened: August 27, 1927
Closed: 1951
Demolished: Yes (date unknown)
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Capacity: 850 seats
Architect(s):
Architectural Style(s):
National Register:
Current Organ: none |
Also Known As: Shafer Wayne |
Previously operated by: Woodward Theatres |
The Wayne was built for Henry Koppin, who leased the theater as part of the Woodard Vaudeville circuit, in 1927. The theater was managed by Walter Shafer until Koppin went under in 1930. Shafer borrowed $500 from his mother for the first month's rent and took over ownership of the Wayne. Later called the Shafer-Wayne, it was the family's first of many local theaters.
The Wayne closed in 1951 and was split to house the Wayne Amusement Company offices and a basement bowling alley. In 1985, a fire destroyed the theater's lobby and storefronts. It took 37 firefighters from four cities to put out the blaze.
A non-profit group called the Palace Theatre Company in the city of Wayne is currently holding fundraisers to attempt a restoration effort for the Wayne Theatre. Photos Photos remain the property of the Member and may not be reproduced without the written consent of the Member. |
1927 photos from the Matthew Wilkinson collection.
80 KB · 625x484 | 53 KB · 625x492 | 79 KB · 625x485 |
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Last featured 3/9/2005. Last edited 2/17/2014.
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