Enhancements are underway at Detroit’s historic Fox Theatre, including the replacement of more than 5,000 guest seats. A new wayfinding system similar to the Portal entry system at Little Caesars Arena will also be implemented to efficiently direct guests to their seats. Details on further enhancements to the theatre will be announced later.

To accommodate the renovation process, the theatre is closed for ticketed events – including concerts and shows – through late September.  

The Fox Theatre is part of The District Detroit, a dynamic urban destination in the heart of Detroit and a driving catalyst of the city’s resurgence. The theatre is one of the most iconic theatres and music venues in the world. In addition to hosting some of the biggest names in show business, the historic venue features a collection of award-winning Broadway musicals, interactive stage shows and treasured holiday favorites. The Fox Theatre is the second-largest theatre in the nation, second only to Radio City Music Hall in New York City.

Guest seats will be enhanced on all levels, including the installation of cup holders on the back of every seat, new seat bottoms and backs for increased comfort. New fabric will resemble the original historic fabric, with the original “Fox Theatre” logo embedded. Each row will also feature a row letter illuminator, providing a more efficient way for guests to locate their seats before or during an event.  

Approximately 2,000 original seats will be designated for historical preservation, donated to local non-profit organizations, and auctioned off to benefit local charities.

Throughout the planning process for the upcoming enhancements, historic theatres across the country were benchmarked to gather best practices for industry-leading guest advancements.

“The Fox Theatre has hosted some of the world’s greatest performers and most popular shows throughout its storied history, and provided generations of Detroiters with countless memories,” said Chris Ilitch, CEO of Ilitch Companies. “We are excited to make these investments in the Fox to further elevate the guest experience, while preserving the elegance that truly makes this iconic theatre Detroit’s crown jewel.”  

Shortly after acquiring the Fox in 1987, the Ilitches began a robust restoration of the building. After nearly a year-long renovation, 100 percent of the theatre was restored, preserving 80 percent of the original finish. The middle balcony level of the theatre was converted into a private viewing area, providing an intimate setting for guests in 17 “Loge” style boxes.

The Fox Theatre celebrated its grand re-opening on Nov. 19, 1988, with a show called “Curtains Up.”

In addition to the Fox Theatre renovations in 1987 and 1988, the surrounding office building was upgraded and in 1989, the Ilitches moved Little Caesars Headquarters into the Fox Office Building. That same year, the Fox Theatre was designated a National Historic Landmark due to, among other things, its history, architecture and cultural significance.

The Fox Theatre is one of the anchors of The District Detroit, a premier sports and entertainment destination in the heart of Detroit, with Little Caesars Arena three blocks north, Comerica Park one block east and Ford Field three blocks east – all serving as catalysts for the city’s ongoing resurgence.

Ilitch-owned Olympia Development is providing design and construction oversight with Detroit-based general contractor Sachse Construction, Detroit-based architects Neumann Smith, Michigan-based seating company Irwin, and Detroit-based fabric company Maharam in partnership with theatre consultant Martin Vinik Planning for the Arts, LLC.

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Detroit Assigns Ville Husso to Griffins

The Detroit Red Wings today recalled forward Austin Watson to the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins. Additionally, the Red Wings have assigned goaltender Ville Husso to the Griffins.

Watson, 32, has recorded three assists, a plus-three rating and seven penalty minutes in two games with the Griffins to begin the 2024-25 season. The 6-foot-4, 210-pound forward signed a one-year, two-way contract with the Red Wings on Oct. 7 after spending training camp on a professional tryout, logging one assist, a plus-one rating and 27 penalty minutes in four preseason appearances. Watson played the entire 2023-24 season with the Tampa Bay Lightning, tallying four points (2-2-4), a plus-two rating and 93 penalty minutes in 33 games. He spent the 2022-23 campaign with the Ottawa Senators, collecting 11 points (9-2-11) and 123 penalty minutes in 75 games. Originally selected by the Nashville Predators in the first round (18th overall) of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, Watson has compiled 118 points (60-58-118) and 705 penalty minutes in 515 games with the Predators, Senators and Lightning since 2012-13. He has also tallied 19 points (10-9-19) and 48 penalty minutes in 45 postseason contests, helping the Predators reach the 2017 Stanley Cup Final. Additionally, Watson has played in parts of seven AHL seasons with the Milwaukee Admirals and Griffins, racking up 135 points (73-62-135), a plus-13 rating and 96 penalty minutes in 236 games.

A native of Ann Arbor, Mich., Watson is one of six Michigan-born skaters on Detroit’s active roster, joining forwards Alex DeBrincat (Farmington Hills), Andrew Copp (Ann Arbor), Dylan Larkin (Waterford) and Tyler Motte (St. Clair), and defenseman Jeff Petry (Ann Arbor). Prior to turning professional, Watson played four seasons in the Ontario Hockey League with the Windsor Spitfires, Peterborough Petes and London Knights from 2008-12, winning OHL championships with Windsor in 2009 and London in 2012. During his major junior career, Watson registered 219 points (89-130-219) and 164 penalty minutes in 244 games, in addition to 22 points (12-10-22) and 27 penalty minutes in 43 postseason matchups. Watson captured a Memorial Cup title with Windsor in 2009 under Red Wings Associate Coach Bob Boughner, and later earned the Wayne Gretzky 99 Award as OHL Playoff MVP with London in 2012. Watson also skated with the U.S. National Team Development Program in 2009-10, collecting six points (4-2-6) and 33 penalty minutes in nine appearances. On the international stage, Watson served as an alternate captain with Team USA at the 2022 IIHF World Championship, collecting one assist and 27 penalty minutes in 10 games. He also competed at the 2012 IIHF World Junior Championship, registering nine points(3-6-9) and a plus-six rating in six games. Watson earned a gold medal with Team USA at the 2010 IIHF World Under-18 Championship, logging three points (2-1-3), a plus-two rating and 33 penalty minutes in seven contests.

Husso, 29, has started one game with the Red Wings during the 2024-25 season. The 6-foot-3, 208-pound netminder was limited to 19 appearances with Detroit in 2023-24, posting a 9-5-2 record with a 3.55 goals-against average and an 0.892 save percentage. Husso also stopped all 25 shots he faced with the Griffins on Jan. 26 against the Belleville Senators during a conditioning stint. He spent the entire 2022-23 campaign with the Red Wings, logging a 26-22-7 record with a 3.11 goals-against average, an 0.896 save percentage and four shutouts in 56 games. Originally selected by the St. Louis Blues in the fourth round (94th overall) of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, Husso has compiled a 69-41-16 record with a 3.03 goals-against average, a 0.902 save percentage and seven shutouts in 133 appearances with the Blues and Red Wings since 2020-21. Additionally, Husso has posted a 51-54-16 record with a 2.68 goals-against average, a 0.909 save percentage and 11 shutouts in 130 AHL games with the Chicago Wolves, San Antonio Rampage and Griffins, earning a place on the AHL All-Rookie Team in 2017-18.  
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A native of Helsinki, Finland, Husso played three seasons with HIFK in Finland's SM-Liiga from 2013-16 prior to arriving in North America, finishing with a 60-33-21 record and 10 shutouts in 121 appearances. In his final season with HIFK, Husso was named to the SM-Liiga All-Star Team and captured the Urpo Ylönen Award as the league's top goaltender after recording the circuit's best goals-against average (1.91) and save percentage (0.927) in 39 games during the 2015-16 campaign. On the international stage, Husso represented Finland at the 2018 IIHF World Championship, showing a 1-2-0 record with a 2.33 goals-against average and an 0.863 save percentage in three appearances. He also competed at back-to-back IIHF World Junior Championships in 2014 and 2015, winning a gold medal at the 2014 tournament. Husso was a member of Finland’s bronze-medal entry at the 2013 IIHF World Under-18 Championship and made three appearances at the 2012 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament.

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From Tuesday night’s drone show to an electric atmosphere at sold-out Comerica Park for Game 3 of the ALDS, Detroit is making the most out of Detroit Tigers postseason baseball.

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Block Parties, Fan Giveaways and More

Enjoy several pre-game activities at Comerica Park, and plan to arrive early to catch a Tigers’ favorite throw out the first pitch.

New Food and Drink at Comerica Park

Whether you’re grabbing a bite or drink during the the game, Comerica Park is featuring several post-season food and beverage offerings.

Pre- and Post-Game Dining

Pedestrian-only Columbia Street – just across the street from Comerica Park – offers a variety of options before and after events.

• JoJo’s ShakeBAR:   with a menu ranging from brunch to dinner and loaded dessert, JoJo’s pays homage to Motown greats in a lively atmosphere. 
• Union Assembly: providing customers with a variety of all-American foods and drinks with a Detroit spin amid their day or night out on the town. 
• Frita Batidos: looking for Cuban-inspired burgers, fries and milkshakes? Frita’s is the spot to give you tropical vibes before exploring The District Detroit. 
• Sahara Restaurant & Grill: this authentic Chaldean and Middle Eastern restaurant gives a global feel, right in the heart of Detroit.

Bag Policy

Bags, purses and clutches larger than 4″ x 6″ x 1.5″ are prohibited. Single compartment bags, wallets and clutches smaller than 4” x 6” x1.5 with or without a handle strap are permitted.

Bags, wallets, and clutches needed for medical necessity, including medical bags, diaper bags with supplies for children, breast pumps and other medical devices smaller than 14″ x 14″ x 6″ are allowed.

For details on permitted and prohibited items, click here.

Parking

With 8,500 parking spaces across more than five parking structures and multiple surface parking lots, safe and convenient parking is available. 

Please Note: All parking structures and lots are cashless and are open 24 hours a day. 

• Olympia  Parking provides guests the ability to pre-book parking before reaching your destination. You can pre-pay for parking based on the event you’re attending, at ParkDistrictDetroit.com.
• Guests who do not wish to pre-book parking can access Olympia Parking facilities with a credit card, based on availability. 
• Many lots and garages are “passes only,” so pre-purchasing on ParkDistrictDetroit.com is the best way to ensure a close and convenient spot.
• Accessible parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis at the going rate with presentation of an accessible license plate or hang tag. Check out an accessible parking map here.

Cashless Transactions

If you bring cash to an event, you can use a reverse ATM machine, which allows you to transfer cash onto a card for concessions, apparel, drinks and more. Reverse ATMS are located at Concourse Section 121, Concourse Section 138 to 141, Tiger Club Lobby Section 110, and D Shop Section 119 (Big Cat Court).

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Forward Has Skated in 515 NHL Games with Nashville, Ottawa and Tampa Bay Since 2012-13

The Detroit Red Wings today assigned forward Austin Watson to the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins. Watson, 32, signed a one-year, two-way contract with the Red Wings on Oct. 7 after spending training camp on a professional tryout, recording one assist, a plus-one rating and 27 penalty minutes in four preseason games. The 6-foot-4, 210-pound forward played the entire 2023-24 season with the Tampa Bay Lightning, tallying four points (2-2-4), a plus-two rating and 93 penalty minutes in 33 games. Watson spent the 2022-23 campaign with the Ottawa Senators, logging 11 points (9-2-11) and 123 penalty minutes in 75 games. Originally selected by the Nashville Predators in the first round (18th overall) of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, Watson has compiled 118 points (60-58-118) and 705 penalty minutes in 515 games with the Predators, Senators and Lightning since 2012-13. He has also tallied 19 points (10-9-19) and 48 penalty minutes in 45 postseason contests, helping the Predators reach the 2017 Stanley Cup Final. Additionally, Watson played in parts of six seasons with the American Hockey League’s Milwaukee Admirals, racking up 132 points (73-59-132), a plus-10 rating and 89 penalty minutes in 234 games.

A native of Ann Arbor, Mich., Watson played four seasons in the Ontario Hockey League with the Windsor Spitfires, Peterborough Petes and London Knights from 2008-12 prior to turning professional, winning OHL championships with Windsor in 2009 and London in 2012. During his major junior career, Watson registered 219 points (89-130-219) and 164 penalty minutes in 244games, in addition to 22 points (12-10-22) and 27 penalty minutes in 43 postseason matchups. Watson captured a Memorial Cup title with Windsor in 2009 under Red Wings Associate Coach Bob Boughner, and later earned the Wayne Gretzky 99 Award as OHL Playoff MVP with London in 2012. Watson also skated with the U.S. National Team Development Program in 2009-10, collecting six points (4-2-6) and 33 penalty minutes in nine appearances. On the international stage, Watson served as an alternate captain with Team USA at the 2022 IIHF World Championship, collecting one assist and 27 penalty minutes in 10 games. He also competed at the 2012 IIHF World Junior Championship, registering nine points (3-6-9) and a plus-six rating in six games. Watson earned a gold medal with Team USA at the 2010 IIHF World Under-18 Championship, logging three points (2-1-3), a plus-two rating and 33 penalty minutes in seven contests.

Adjustment Made to Minimize Game-Time Overlap with Tigers ALDS Game Four

 The Detroit Red Wings today announced an updated start time of 8:00 p.m. for their home opener against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday, Oct. 10 at Little Caesars Arena.

The game, originally scheduled for 7:00 p.m., will now begin at 8:00 p.m. due to Game Four of the American League Division Series being held at Comerica Park on Thursday at 6:08 p.m. The Red Wings-Penguins game will be broadcast live on Bally Sports Detroit and air on WWJ Newsradio 950.

With heavy traffic volume expected that evening in downtown Detroit, fans are encouraged to arrive early and to give themselves extra time by reserving parking in advance at Olympia Parking locations by visiting ParkWhiz.com.

Before the Tigers and Red Wings games, Mike’s Pizza Bar, The Mixing Board and PointsBet SportsBar will open at 3:30 p.m. All restaurants are accessible from outside Little Caesars Arena for both ticketed and non-ticketed fans. The Chevrolet Plaza and the Budweiser Biergarten will open for Fan Fest at 4:30 p.m., with the Team Store opening at 3:30 p.m. During the pregame festival, fans can play street hockey adjacent to Little Caesars Arena. The band Collison Six will perform live in the Chevrolet Plaza.

Doors to Little Caesars Arena for ticketed fans will open at 5:00 p.m. All ticketed fans will receive an Opening Night Rally Towel, presented by Coca-Cola Zero Sugar and Meijer. Coca-Cola samples will be available in the Via concourse.

An updated Red Wings schedule is available at DetroitRedWings.com/schedule.

The Detroit Tigers and food, beverage and retail partner Delaware North today announced a new lineup of must-try culinary creations for Comerica Park during the 2024 American League Division Series (ALDS).

“We’re excited to bring these locally inspired dishes and drinks to Comerica Park for the ALDS,” said Joe Slomski, Delaware North’s general manager at Comerica Park. “Our goal is to enhance the fan experience by offering flavors that reflect the city of Detroit and the excitement of postseason baseball.”

Featured Menu Items:

• Taqueria El Rey Al Pastor Tacos
  Location: Miller Lite Market, Section 149
  Enjoy hand-carved, marinated pork, topped with fresh cilantro and onions, served on a corn tortilla for a delicious bite of authentic Detroit flavor.

• Loaded Coney Pierogis
  Location: Section 122
  This Srodek coney pierogi is a twist on the classic local pierogi, featuring a savory filling of coney sauce, hot dog and onions. It is then finished with a selection of toppings for an extra burst of Detroit flavor.

• Blakes Cider and Donuts
  Location: Section 138
  Fans can savor Blake’s famous cider paired with either three or six cinnamon sugar cider donuts, the perfect autumn ballpark treat.

• Donut Sundae
  Location: Section 138
  A fan-favorite twist on dessert: three cider donuts topped with creamy soft-serve ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.

• The Playoff Prime
  Location: Section 116
  This premium offering features USDA prime filet, arugula, garlic butter, balsamic onions and smoked gouda on a sesame seeded roll. Served with kettle chips.

• Tigers Red Hot
  Location: Section 217 Hot Dog Cart
  A fiery take on a classic hot dog, topped with cabbage slaw, Flaming Hot Cheetos and house-made smoked ranch.

Locally Sourced Favorites:
Comerica Park continues to highlight local flavors with Shelia’s Bakery supplying both horchata and tres leches cake at Miller Lite Market (Section 149), bringing Detroit’s best to postseason dining.

Signature Beverages:

• Autumn Smash
  Location: Sections 117 and 212
  Fans can choose from bourbon or spiced rum mixed with apple cider, honey and lemon juice, garnished with ginger candy and fruit skewers in a commemorative ALDS cup.

• Playoff Spritz
  Location: Comerica Landing
  A refreshing blend of Aperol, cranberry juice and fresh cranberries, garnished with an orange twist. Served in a souvenir ALDS cup.

• October Ready Mule
  Location: Tiger Club
  This cocktail combines bourbon, lemon juice, barrel-aged maple syrup and ginger beer for a perfect fall drink.

• The Tipsy Pumpkin
  Location: Section 140
  A spiced smash cocktail of bourbon, spiced pumpkin syrup, fresh-squeezed clementine, Sriracha bitters, topped with ginger beer and garnished with dehydrated pumpkin pieces. Served in a Tigers-branded pumpkin (while supplies last), bringing a festive spirit to the ballpark.

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Detroit to Begin 99th Season in Franchise History on Thursday, Oct. 10 with Home Game Against Pittsburgh Penguins at 7:00 p.m. at Little Caesars Arena

The Detroit Red Wings today assigned forwards Sheldon Dries and Joe Snively, and defensemen Justin Holl, William Lagesson and Brogan Rafferty to the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins.

The roster moves bring the Red Wings to a 23-man roster, consisting of 13 forwards, seven defensemen and three goaltenders. The Red Wings will begin their 99th season in franchise history on Thursday, Oct. 10 with a home game against the Pittsburgh Penguins at 7:00 p.m. at Little Caesars Arena.

Forward Has Skated in 515 NHL Games with Nashville, Ottawa and Tampa Bay Since 2012-13

The Detroit Red Wings today signed forward Austin Watson to a one-year, two-way contract.

Watson, 32, spent training camp with the Red Wings on a professional tryout, recording one assist, a plus-one rating and 27 penalty minutes in four preseason games. The 6-foot-4, 210-pound forward played the entire 2023-24 season with the Tampa Bay Lightning, tallying four points (2-2-4), a plus-two rating and 93 penalty minutes in 33 games. Watson spent the 2022-23 campaign with the Ottawa Senators, logging 11 points (9-2-11) and 123 penalty minutes in 75 games. Originally selected by the Nashville Predators in the first round (18th overall) of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, Watson has compiled 118 points (60-58-118) and 705 penalty minutes in 515 games with the Predators, Senators and Lightning since 2012-13. He has also tallied 19 points (10-9-19) and 48 penalty minutes in 45 postseason contests, helping the Predators reach the 2017 Stanley Cup Final. Additionally, Watson played in parts of six seasons with the American Hockey League’s Milwaukee Admirals, racking up 132 points (73-59-132), a plus-10 rating and 89 penalty minutes in 234 games.

A native of Ann Arbor, Mich., Watson played four seasons in the Ontario Hockey League with the Windsor Spitfires, Peterborough Petes and London Knights from 2008-12 prior to turning professional, winning OHL championships with Windsor in 2009 and London in 2012. During his major junior career, Watson registered 219 points (89-130-219) and 164 penalty minutes in 244 games, in addition to 22 points (12-10-22) and 27 penalty minutes in 43 postseason matchups. Watson captured a Memorial Cup title with Windsor in 2009 under Red Wings Associate Coach Bob Boughner, and later earned the Wayne Gretzky 99 Award as OHL Playoff MVP with London in 2012. Watson also skated with the U.S. National Team Development Program in 2009-10, collecting six points (4-2-6) and 33 penalty minutes in nine appearances. On the international stage, Watson served as an alternate captain with Team USA at the 2022 IIHF World Championship, collecting one assist and 27 penalty minutes in 10 games. He also competed at the 2012 IIHF World Junior Championship, registering nine points (3-6-9) and a plus-six rating in six games. Watson earned a gold medal with Team USA at the 2010 IIHF World Under-18 Championship, logging three points (2-1-3), a plus-two rating and 33 penalty minutes in seven contests.

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