Alger Theater

The Alger Theater, presumably named for Michigan governor Russell A. Alger, was built by Detroit theater developers Saul and Hattie Sloan, and designed by architect Charles Easton Allen. The Sloans leased the theater to Detroit theater magnate George Washington Trendle, The Alger was equipped with modern amenities such as the latest sound and projection equipment, comfortable seating, and air conditioning. They are developing programming for the community while raising funds to restore and reopen the theater. ==Description==

The Alger sits at the corner of Warren Avenue and Outer Drive. It is constructed of structural steel faced with brick. A two-story square-plan tower structure with an instepped parapet stands at the corner, dominating the building's facade. The tower houses the theater entrance and box office. A vertical sign with the theater's name extends from the tower toward the street. Along the Warren facade, four single-story commercial spaces faced with painted yellow brick line the sidewalk; the facade of the theater proper above is set back. On the interior of the theater, the inner and outer lobby and the balcony-less auditorium still show much of their historic finish. The auditorium is constructed of concrete block with horizontal banding in smaller concrete brick; it originally sat 1182 people but now seats 825. The stage was extended into the seating area to provide for theatrical performances. Stepped metal sconces with rounded ends adorn the walls. ==Modern-day use==

The Friends of the Alger Theater were awarded historic designations for the theater on the state, federal and local levels. In March 2009, the city's Historic Designation Advisory Board unanimously voted to recommend that the City Council approve the designation. The Detroit City Council approved the formal local historic designation on Oct. 21, 2009. The state and federal designations were granted in 2005. Over the years The Friends have provided cultural opportunities and worked to build community by offering free programming in the surrounding neighborhoods. These have included theater arts classes at Detroit Public Schools, a neighborhood outdoor movie series, and many others. In 2014, the theater was surveyed for asbestos and underwent abatement, clearing a large barrier to restoration. As of 2025, the Alger has a new roof, restored storefronts, a rooftop deck on the East Warren side, an ADA compliant bathroom and an elevator. The group is currently raising funds for full renovation of the theater. ==See also==