Royal Oak Moves Closer To Knocking Down Main Art Theatre: Reports

ROYAL OAK, MI — Royal Oak officials voted Tuesday in favor of knocking down the historic Main Art Theatre on Main Street, recommending new apartments and stores, according to reports.

Despite strong opposition from the community, the city's planning commission voted 4 to 2 to send the new proposal to Royal Oak City Commission, who will make the final decision, which could come April 25, in allowing a developer to build on the site.

After the historic theater closed last summer amid the COVID-19 pandemic, when its marquee said, "Landlord kicked us out. It's been a fun ride. ... RIP 1941-2021," city officials a submitted plan from a developer to build a new mixed-use building.

The new 71-foot building would propose 9,200 square feet of commercial space for apartments, restaurants and retailers, with the higher level floors including office space and residential units.

Some of the theater's biggest fans started a non-profit, Friends of Main Art, dedicated to saving the theater. The group has a large social media presence with over 1,700 Facebook followers.

Although disappointed by Tuesday's 4-2 vote, Friends of the Main Art President Jason Krzysiak reminded supporters that the vote was close and said their voice had an enormous effect.

"185+ emails and almost two hours of public comment undoubtedly showed that the citizens of Royal Oak and the supporters of the arts in Metro Detroit vehemently oppose demolition of this cultural gem," Krzysiak said.

The historic theater at 118 N Main St. first opened its doors in 1940.