The Detroit Opera House is one of the premier performing arts venues in the city, known for hosting world-class opera, ballet, and Broadway productions. Located in the heart of the Detroit Theater District, the Opera House first opened its doors in 1922 and has since undergone renovations in 1970 and 1996 to improve the acoustics and update the interior design. With a seating capacity of 2,700, it is an intimate yet grand space to experience live theater. The upcoming season promises a diverse lineup of shows to delight audiences.
Current and Upcoming Productions
This October and November, the Detroit Opera House has several exciting productions taking the stage.
The whimsical family musical Disney’s Beauty and the Beast just began its run on October 11th. Based on the Academy Award-winning animated film, this stage adaptation brings to life beloved characters like Belle, the Beast, Lumiere, Cogsworth, and more with lavish costumes and sets, spectacular special effects, and songs like “Be Our Guest” and the title number “Beauty and the Beast.” The show runs through October 23rd, so there are still chances to see it.
Next up is Anastasia, an enchanting musical inspired by the 1997 animated film. From October 25th through November 6th, audiences can embark on a journey to 1920s Paris and beyond with Anya, a brave young woman searching for home, love, and the key to her past. With a lush score and twists of magic and adventure, Anastasia is sure to delight.
The Moscow Ballet is set to bring their acclaimed production of Swan Lake to the Detroit Opera House stage November 4-6. Featuring Tchaikovsky’s music, stunning choreography, and elaborate costumes and sets, this classical ballet tells the tragic love story of Prince Siegfried and the Swan Princess Odette. The Moscow Ballet’s productions are known for showcasing principal dancers from world-renowned companies.
Later in November, the return of the Broadway smash hit The Lion King will captivate audiences from November 16th through December 4th. Disney’s multi-award winning musical, set against the majesty of the Serengeti Plains and featuring beloved characters like Simba, Nala, Rafiki, and more, brings unbelievable magic to the stage with imaginative costumes, masks, puppets, and songs like “Circle of Life,” “Hakuna Matata,” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.” This is a show that both children and adults will love.
Holiday Programming
The holiday season will also offer special programming at the Detroit Opera House.
A magical production of The Nutcracker ballet will grace the stage November 25-27, featuring Tchaikovsky’s cherished score and the Moscow Ballet’s world-class dancers. This beautiful holiday tradition tells the story of young Clara and her enchanted nutcracker doll coming to life. Audiences of all ages will delight in the wonder of dancing snowflakes, flowers, and sugar plum fairies.
Irving Berlin’s White Christmas brings holiday cheer December 9-11. Based on the classic 1954 movie starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen, this heartwarming musical is full of laughter, romance, and timeless hits like “Blue Skies,” “I Love A Piano,” and the perennial favorite, “White Christmas.”
The beloved Charles Dickens tale A Christmas Carol comes to life December 13-18 in a spirited musical adaptation. With new songs and dazzling dance numbers added to this classic story of hope and redemption, this production promises Christmas magic in a way that audiences have never seen before.
Broadway Series
Beyond the upcoming productions already announced, the Detroit Opera House has an exciting 2022-2023 Broadway Series with several hit musicals direct from Broadway. The series includes:
- Tina – The Tina Turner Musical (December 27-January 8): A inspiring show about the life and music of rock & roll icon Tina Turner
- Beetlejuice (January 17-29): The hilarious and wild musical comedy based on the hit Tim Burton film
- Hadestown (February 7-19): The Tony Award-winning folk opera reimagining the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice
- Moulin Rouge! The Musical (March 28-April 9): A spectacular adaptation of Baz Luhrmann’s 2001 pop musical film
- Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations (May 2-14): The Tony Award-winning musical tracing the journey of The Temptations, one of Motown’s legendary groups
In addition to phenomenal Broadway shows, the 2022-2023 season includes comedy acts like Trevor Noah and Sebastian Maniscalco, concerts with artists like Maluma and Pentatonix, plus family favorites like Cirque Dreams Holidaze. There is always something exciting happening on the Detroit Opera House stage!
Ticket Information
Tickets for most shows at the Detroit Opera House can be purchased:
- Online through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com
- By phone through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000
- In person at the Detroit Opera House box office located at 1526 Broadway St, Detroit, MI 48226
- Group sales (10+ tickets) are available by calling (313) 237-SING
Ticket prices vary depending on the show and seating section. Some typical price ranges are:
Seating Section | Price Range |
---|---|
Orchestra | $50 – $170 |
Mezzanine | $40 – $100 |
Balcony | $30 – $80 |
Discounts are available for seniors, students, military members, and groups. Ask about special rates when purchasing tickets.
Venue Amenities
The Detroit Opera House offers the following amenities to enhance the show experience:
- Free coat check
- Full bars with beer, wine, and cocktails
- Snack bars with soft drinks, water, candy, and snacks
- Handicap seating and wheelchair ramps
- Assistive listening devices for the hearing impaired
- Free WiFi
Parking is available in nearby lots and garages for a fee. The Opera House is easily accessible by public transportation too.
Safety Precautions
The Detroit Opera House has implemented rigorous cleaning, sanitization, and safety procedures. All staff and guests are required to wear masks inside the venue. Additional precautions may be in place depending on current health guidelines. Visit the website for the latest updates before attending a performance.
Conclusion
With sensational Broadway musicals, stunning ballet productions, hilarious comedy acts, and more, the Detroit Opera House calendar is packed with phenomenal entertainment options for all interests. Exciting shows are happening now and all season long. Be sure to get your tickets early before they sell out! With phenomenal productions, reasonable ticket prices, and great amenities, the Detroit Opera House is the place to be for the best that live theater has to offer.