About Garden Theater
Renowned “movie palace” architect C. Howard Crane designed Detroit’s historic Garden
Theater, after he opened his own firm in Detroit in 1908.
In addition to the Garden Theater, Crane has 250 theaters to his credit, 62 of which were built in Detroit, like The Majestic, The Fox, Orchestra Hall, the Detroit Opera House, and The Fillmore Detroit.
One of the city’s earliest neighborhood theaters, the Garden Theater opened to the public in
1912. With its 900-seat capacity, it was one of the largest theaters built outside downtown; it
originally hosted live stage shows and motion pictures. As the name implies, Crane cleverly
incorporated vines, birds and other garden-style decorations in its design to immerse patrons in
an outdoor-like experience.
After decades in ruin, the theater underwent a multi-million-dollar restoration and was
rededicated in 2013, a century after its initial debut, as part of Midtown’s vibrant resurgence.
The Small Details
Get to know the faces behind the magic and discover the incredible team who bring The Garden Theater Detroit to life. From meticulous planning to seamless execution, our dedicated team handles every detail to ensure your experience is nothing short of extraordinary.
Meet the Team
BJ Pearson is an accomplished professional in the entertainment industry, currently serving as the Vice President of Operations at the Garden Theater Detroit. With extensive experience in venue management and event production, BJ brings a wealth of expertise to the historic space. Under his leadership, the Garden Theater has become a premier destination for diverse performances and cultural events, captivating audiences with its rich history and vibrant atmosphere.
Vice President of Operations
BJ Pearson
As the diligent Sales and Event Manager at the Garden Theater Detroit, Biko Smith takes charge of monitoring and enhancing the venue's services. With a keen eye for detail and a strong focus on customer satisfaction, Biko ensures that every aspect of the Garden Theater's offerings are delivered seamlessly. His dedication to providing top-notch service and continuously improving the venue's operations makes Biko an invaluable asset to the team.
Sales and Events Manager
Biko Smith
Amy Ancevski, the accomplished Director of Marketing and Sales at the Garden Theater Detroit, has played a pivotal role in curating memorable weddings and corporate events at the historic venue. With her meticulous attention to detail and strong event planning skills, Amy has been instrumental in transforming the space into a sought-after destination for unforgettable celebrations and professional gatherings. Her expertise in understanding client needs and creating tailored experiences has earned her a reputation for delivering exceptional events that leave a lasting impression.
Director of Sales and Marketing
Amy Ancevski
Colbin Beals is a seasoned professional, holding the esteemed position of Senior Manager of Food and Beverage at The Block restaurant, and simultaneously serving as the Event Manager at the Garden Theater. With a keen understanding of the culinary world and event coordination, Colbin delivers exceptional dining experiences at The Block, while orchestrating flawless events at the historic Garden Theater. His expertise in both realms make him an invaluable asset, ensuring that guests enjoy delectable cuisine and unforgettable moments in two distinct and vibrant settings.
Senior Food and Beverage and Events Manager
Colbin Beals