Project Description:
The Capitol Theatre received a Ruth Mott Foundation façade improvement grant totaling $25,000 for the repair of the Harrison Street and Second Street marquees. The project included painting of the signs, new neon and flood lights. In addition, brick work was completed to repair the east and west side of the building.
Within recent years, the roof of the theatre has been replaced.
The estimated cost for renovating the project is $15 to $20-million dollars.
Background Information:
A renovated Capitol Theatre could become the home to a variety of popular entertainment attractions, provide a venue for local arts organizations and spark growth in downtown with the addition of restaurants, clubs, cafes and a mix of commercial activity.
A feasibility study was undertaken to determine the potential for a renovated and active Capitol Theatre and the role it may play in revitalizing Flint’s downtown. The feasibility study was divided into two phases. The first phase addressed the need for a renovated Capitol Theatre, the type of activities the theatre could host, and the cost and economic impact the theatre would have on downtown and the greater Flint area.
Phase two included a needs assessment which examined the arts and entertainment markets, determined the need for a renovated Capitol Theatre, and addressed issues of operation, governance and event activity. It also included an entailed architectural concept development for renovating the Capitol Theatre. It was in phase two of the feasibility study that the architect and the community developed plans and budgets for the renovation of the theatre.
The estimated cost for renovating the project is $15 to $20-million dollars.
History of Building:
In the 1920s, two of the biggest names in entertainment came together, theater mogul W. S. Butterfield and architect John Eberson. Together they created a litany of classic theatres including the State Theatre in Kalamazoo, the Majestic in San Antonio, Texas and Flint's Capitol Theatre.
The Capitol Theatre is an outstanding example of 1920s theatre architecture including atmospheric type theatre interior design, which incorporates diverse Mediterranean architectural elements, executed on a grand scale. The Capitol was the seventy-fourth theatre in the Butterfield Theatre chain. At its completion in 1928, it was Flint’s largest theatre and among Butterfield's most lavish. The Capitol Theatre is significant for its direct association with two of America's foremost innovators in theatre management and design and for its grandiose architectural character.
During Hollywood’s Golden Era, atmospheric theaters further enhanced the experience of theatergoers by creating the impression of outdoor settings featuring ancient and exotic places inside the building. For Flint‘s premier theater, the theme was a Roman garden. Beneath its domed sky-blue ceiling were twinkling stars and “wisps” of clouds produced by a fog machine, with seating for 2,000. Facades of palaces, castle towers and hanging gardens adorned the theater’s interior.
The Capitol Theatre's past and future destiny is truly a shrine of entertainment. This wonderful building has been recognized and is listed in the local, state, and national list of historic places. The current owners have perfectly preserved the property over the past twenty-five years. It will serve as one of the channels to the revitalization of downtown Flint.
For Additional information Contact:
Troy Farah
(810) 239-1551 capitol140@aol.com
