The Historic Howell Theater holds an iconic place in Howell's history. The theater first opened in 1928, and since then, performances held within its walls have brought joy to countless individuals. Our real estate agents know there is so much to love about the Howell area, and this historic theater is one of them!

• The Howell Theater's Opening
  When the Howell Theater opened in 1928, movies were very different than they are today. Early theaters were quite basic, but those opened in the latter half of the 1920s were beginning to be more elaborate. Going to the theater to see a film was a luxurious, special occasion. It was something people did once or twice a year, at most.
  
  The first film ever screened at the Howell Theater was Show People, which starred Marion Davis. It opened to a full audience on December 11, 1928. However, the Howell was not only a movie theater at this time. It was also set up to house a pit orchestra. Many musical and opera performances were held there in the decades to follow.
  
  
• The Howell Theater's Middle History
  By 1944, the Howell did become, quite exclusively, a movie house. In the decades to follow, the owners would replace the original marquise. And in 1970, the larger company Wisper-Wetsman Theaters bought the aging building. They made some updates to accommodate the larger, more modern film technology popular in that era. 
  
  Unfortunately, the Howell closed its doors in 1998, and it became the property of the City of Howell in 1999. However, this was not the end for the magnificent 1920's theater. 
  
  
• Renovating the Howell Theater
  The Howell received its first attempt at revival in the early 2000s. However, the operation was short-lived, with the theater closing again in November of 2009. 
  
  Luckily, the theater's current owner and operator, Tyler DePerro, came upon the building in 2013 and set about bringing it into the modern era. The Howell opened again in 2014 and has remained an operating theater ever since. 
  
  Today, the Howell Theater is home to two stages. It's well equipped with modern digital equipment and surround sound. While the theater still retains some of its 1920s charm, its decor has also been updated to reflect the independent films that are so often shown there. The theater is also a popular choice for private events.
  
  
• Visiting the Howell Theater
  If you would like to visit the Howell Theater today, your best option is usually to see a film there. The theater screens lots of historic films and independent art pieces. You can find a list of showtimes on their website.
  
  The Howell Theater also offers small group private theater rentals. You can pay one fee and invite a small ground of family and friends to view a chosen film together. This is a lovely way to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or other special occasion. 
  
  

There are many reasons to love this historic theater and one of our favorites is its role in our history. Harry E. Griffith as a student of Michigan State and before he became Broker/Owner of Crandall Realty, lived above the theater in an apartment with his family. His parents owned the soda fountain and taxi service adjoining the theater.

History is truly everywhere you look in Livingston County! 

If you're thinking of moving to Howell and would like help finding the perfect house to call home, contact us. We'd be happy to tell you more about our real estate services.