A former hockey player finds family in the most unlikely place—a retirement home. With the help of a determined therapist, a loyal service dog named Little Chief, and a community of forgotten voices, he discovers healing, love, and a reason to hope again.

There will be a 3 PM Matinee followed by a 7 PM Premiere Screening.

Saw To Crush a Flower on film? Now feel the power of the story live this Father’s Day at the Senate Theater!

Get ready for an unforgettable night with Videoshop Productions bringing you "Flowers" live on stage, which inspired the motion picture "To Crush a Flower!" This in-person event lets you dive into an amazing story filled with emotion, laughs, and surprises. Don't miss out on the chance to experience theater the way it's meant to be — up close and personal. Grab your friends and come enjoy a fantastic performance that you’ll be talking about for days!

DOORS AT 6:00 PM

Overview

Michigan film trivia takes the stage at the Senate Theater — celebrate 100 years of the Senate & 10 years of Outlier Media!

Join Outlier Media for a Michigan film–themed trivia night at Detroit’s historic Senate Theater, celebrating the movies, moments, and people that put Michigan on the big screen.

Hosted by Outlier Media’s Briana Rice and BridgeDetroit’s Bryce Huffman —whether you’re deep into Michigan film lore or just looking for a fun night at the Senate, this trivia night is for you.

There will be prizes for the winning team, plus something for the runners-up.

The best part? Your ticket purchase helps support two Detroit nonprofits as they approach milestone anniversaries. This year, Outlier Media celebrates 10 years of nonprofit news and the Senate Theater celebrates 100 years in Detroit!

DIFA 11

 11th annual Detroit International Festival of Animation Saturday, April 4, 2026

Doors Open 7pm

Organ Pre-show 7:30pm

Showtime 8pm


Join us for the 11th annual DETROIT INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF ANIMATION (DIFA) on Saturday, April 4th, 2026. Immerse yourself in an eclectic 90-minute mix of animated shorts showcasing a vibrant selection of works from both local and international animators.

Set in the historic Senate Theater in Detroit, this 1920’s Art Deco gem is not only known for its visual charm but also houses the world’s 8th largest Wurlitzer pipe organ. Enjoy the classic concession stand, comfortable lounging areas, and the added convenience of secure parking.

Be sure to arrive early to catch the enchanting Wurlitzer Pipe Organ pre-show by the Detroit Theater Organ Society.

Admission is $10 and half of all ticket sales go to support the continued preservation and operations of the Senate Theater.

Doors open at 7pm, with organ performance at 7:30pm and showtime at 8pm.

For more details, visit difestofanim.com, or follow @difestofanim on your favorite social medias.

Please note, parental guidance is suggested due to some mature content and language.

Parking is available in our gated lot, on Gilbert, and Michigan Avenue 

Sunday March 22 1-3 pm

FREE! Suggested donation $25

ALL MUSICIANS WELCOME!

Learn about theater organ and silent film accompaniment from a master of the craft, Dennis Scott. This intimate workshop will be adaptable for those familiar with church organs as well as those who just know piano.

It will include a basic explanation and demonstration of the function of the Senate's unique Mighty Wurlitzer 4/34 theater pipe organ, as well as the opportunity to sit down and play under Dennis' supervision

This event is free. However, if you would like to make a donation, we thank you for your support! The Senate Theater is owned and operated by the Detroit Theater Organ Society, an all-volunteer non-profit organization. All donations from this event will go towards maintaining and preserving the Senate and its Mighty Wurlitzer theater organ.

Parking is available in our gated lot, on Gilbert, and Michigan Avenue 

Doors 7 p.m.

Organ Overture 7:30 p.m.

Stories Begin 8 p.m.

The Moth presents the Detroit GrandSLAM, a battle of wits and words - fierce, hilarious, heartbreaking and all points between.

The Moth is dedicated to finding people from all walks of life to tell inspired stories. At The Moth StorySLAM, those people find us. On this night, winners from our StorySLAM series compete to determine The Detroit GrandSLAM Story Champion.

Tonight's theme is COMFORT ZONE

Listen as ten StorySLAM champs tell tales of awkward encounters, ouchy revelations or finally landing on the sweet spot where everything finally feels like home. The caterpillar is probably comfy in the cocoon but once she busts a move? Moth Wings!

About the Moth: The Moth is true stories, told live and without notes. As an organization, it celebrates the ability of stories to honor the diversity and commonality of the human experience. This curated live event features 10 storytellers who share true stories on an array of topics, creating an experience that is intimate, inspiring, captivating, theatrical, and enlightening.

Ballet Folklórico De Detroit is a volunteer run organization that provides affordable dance classes to the community. Join us for their annual holiday concert of traditional Mexican folk dancing,

Ballet folklórico, traditional Mexican folk dancing, is not any one style of dance, but rather, the  combination of traditional indigenous roots mixed with African, Spanish or other European styles.  Ballet folklórico encompasses all of these various traditional, regional and ethnically diverse dances.

Sat. Nov 29

Doors – 7:00 PM  

Cast/Crew Q&A – 8:00 PM

Film – 9:00 PM  

This is the Detroit premiere of a brand new classic of Chicano cinema!

Starring Mr. Homicide, Pete Vásquez, Angel Salazar, Omar Gooding and Panchito Gómez, this film unites icons from Blood in Blood Out, Mi Vida Loca, Scarface, Colors, American Me, and more.

Sat. Nov 29

Doors – 4:00 PM  

Film – 5:00 PM  

This is the Detroit premiere of a brand new classic of Chicano cinema!

Starring Mr. Homicide, Pete Vásquez, Angel Salazar, Omar Gooding and Panchito Gómez, this film unites icons from Blood in Blood Out, Mi Vida Loca, Scarface, Colors, American Me, and more.

Friday, November 21, 2025 | 7:00 - 10:00 p.m.

Doors — 7:00 p.m.

Organ Overture — 7:30 p.m.

Films — 8:00 p.m.

1hr | Mini Q&A to Follow
Tickets — Free with RSVP | Limited Tickets Available | Donations with RSVP support Senate Theater preservation

A Red Carpet Event

The Detroit Narrative Agency (DNA) proudly presents In Sequence, the highly anticipated premiere of its 2024–2025 Film Fellows — four visionary filmmakers whose short films explore lineage, identity, and legacy through a distinctly Detroit lens. The premiere will be held at the historic Senate Theatre, where audiences will experience a powerful collection of original films that reflect the spirit, complexity, and creativity of Detroit’s storytelling tradition.

The 2024–2025 DNA Film Fellowship supports emerging filmmakers of color in Metro Detroit in developing, producing, and premiering deeply personal films that challenge dominant narratives and expand cinematic language.

“At DNA, we believe that narrative power belongs in the hands of the people living the stories. This cohort represents the future of Detroit cinema — bold, diverse, and deeply intentional about the stories they tell and who they tell them for.”
— Ashley Calhoun, Interim Executive Artistic Director, Detroit Narrative Agency

The Films

To Move in My Mother’s Prayers

Director: Diop Russell | Producer: Leah Hill
A rebellious, nonbinary teenager wrestles with their hardworking single mom over joining the Legacy League—an elite organization for high school girls.

Heaven in Detroit

Director: Chris “INPAQ” Sutton | Producer: Miles N. Reuben
After the unexpected loss of his mother, a young house-head searches for his own sense of paradise and purpose on the last night of Detroit’s iconic LGBT+ sanctuary—Club Heaven. 

MIN EEDI | From My Hand

Director: Costa Kazaleh Sirdenis | Producer: Frisly Soberanis
After the sudden loss of his Mother from cancer in 2022, a Palestinian American artist recalls and reaffirms his Mother’s life from Palestine to Detroit. Min Eedi exists to reflect the family's extensive material archive of his Mother, and the memory that exists of her within the realms of grieving.

Until It Feels Like Worship

Director: Ifayomí Christine | Producer: Nina Young
Isolated by years of grief, a woman allows the wisdom of her ancestors to guide her into a living practice of joy, ritual, and connection. 

About Detroit Narrative Agency

Founded in 2015 by ill weaver and adrienne maree brown, with support from Jeanette Lee of Allied Media Projects, the Detroit Narrative Agency (DNA) was created to disrupt harmful and incomplete stories about Detroit. For decades, mainstream narratives have portrayed the city as broken or in need of saving—first through deficit and later through gentrified “revival.” DNA exists to amplify the Detroit that has always been saving itself: the Detroit rooted in resistance, creativity, and collective power.

Through mentorship, funding, and hands-on production opportunities, DNA supports Black, Indigenous, and People of Color filmmakers in telling authentic, community-centered stories. The agency is building a film and media ecosystem that reflects Detroit’s brilliance—locally and globally.

FREE SCREENING COMPLIMENTS OF DISTRICT 6 DETROIT CITY COUNCIL MEMBER GABRIELA SANITAGO-ROMERO!

Your favorite poet's favorite poet is back outside. Join me for a night of love, laughter and healing.

FREE!

ALL MUSICIANS WELCOME!

Join accomplished organist and silent film accompanist John Lauter for an immersive experience that explores the origins and evolution of the art of silent film accompaniment.  

The workshop will begin with a demonstration on the Senate Theater’s Mighty Wurlitzer with a collection of silent short clips demonstrating different emotions and scenarios. Then John will explain different traditions including improvisational methods and cue sheets, then break down different elements that were demonstrated. The workshop will conclude with an up-close explanation of how the Senate Theater’s Wurlitzer operates to create the music and a discussion amongst participants.  

This event is free. However, if you would like to make a donation, we thank you for your support! The Senate Theater is owned and operated by the Detroit Theater Organ Society, an all-volunteer non-profit organization. All donations from this event will go towards maintaining and preserving the Senate and its Mighty Wurlitzer theater organ.

The Senate Theater and The Detroit Theater Organ Society is supported by The Michigan Arts and Culture Council and The National Endowment for the Arts. 

Parking is available in our gated lot, on Gilbert, and Michigan Avenue 

FREE

We’re bringing LILY to the Senate Theater for a public screening in collaboration with Who Got the Props, one of the biggest breaking jams in the Midwest.

Date: August 29th, 2025
Time: 6-9PM
Location: Senate Theater
6424 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48210

Come through for a night of cinema, music, and drinks.

Music. Art. Food

This years SW Fest will once again take place on August 23rd at the historic @senatetheater! Join us for mesmerizing performances from local artists, experience delicious food from local vendors, beautiful art and jewelry, and most importantly the warm embrace of our wonderful community, there’s something for everyone of all ages to look forward to.

FREE Admission

DIFA 10

 Saturday, April 5th, 2025

 Doors Open 7pm, Organ Pre-show 7:30pm, Showtime 8pm

 Senate Theater, 6424 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48210

https://www.senatetheater.com/parking

Join us for the 10th Annual DETROIT INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF ANIMATION (DIFA) on Saturday, April 5th, 2025. Immerse yourself in an eclectic 90-minute mix of animated shorts showcasing a vibrant selection of works from both local and international animators.

Set in the historic Senate Theater in Detroit, this 1920’s Art Deco gem is not only known for its visual charm but also houses the world’s 8th largest Wurlitzer pipe organ. Enjoy the classic concession stand, comfortable lounging areas, and the added convenience of secure parking.

Be sure to catch the enchanting Wurlitzer Pipe Organ pre-show by the Detroit Theater Organ Society, beginning at 7:30pm. Doors open at 7pm with the main show beginning at 8pm.

Tickets are $10 and advance tickets will be available on March 1st, along the full animation schedule. Please note, this event is recommended for a mature audience (18 and over) due to some content and themes.

To stay in the loop and for more details, visit difestofanim.com.

For updates, join the DIFA newsletter or the DIFA Newsgroup:

www.difestofanim.com/newsletter

www.facebook.com/groups/DIFANewsgroup

The Senate Theater, home of the Detroit Theater Organ Society is supported by the Michigan Arts and Culture Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Parking is available in our gated lot, on Gilbert, and Michigan Avenue 

Doors 7 p.m.

Organ Overture 7:30 p.m.

Stories Begin 8 p.m.

An ultimate battle of wits and words, The Moth invites winners from previous StorySLAM competitions to vie for the title of Detroit GrandSLAM Champion! On this night, listen as ten open mic storytellers share unique, unexpected, and magical true stories

About the Moth: The Moth is true stories, told live and without notes. As an organization, it celebrates the ability of stories to honor the diversity and commonality of the human experience. This curated live event features 10 storytellers who share true stories on an array of topics, creating an experience that is intimate, inspiring, captivating, theatrical, and enlightening.

Ballet Folklórico De Detroit is a volunteer run organization that provides affordable dance classes to the community. Join us for their annual holiday concert of traditional Mexican folk dancing,

Ballet folklórico, traditional Mexican folk dancing, is not any one style of dance, but rather, the  combination of traditional indigenous roots mixed with African, Spanish or other European styles.  Ballet folklórico encompasses all of these various traditional, regional and ethnically diverse dances.

Sun. Dec. 1 – World AIDS Day

Doors – 5:30 PM 

Film – 6:30 PM 

Tickets – FREE (RSVP and Donate at the link)

1hr 51min | NR | Drama/Comedy | United States 

In attendance: Director Tom E. Brown

Live Organ Pre-show

100% of donation proceeds will go directly to our LGBTQ+ community partners for their ongoing work in the community

The Event

Bugsby Pictures and the Senate Theater present free public film screening and discussion to commemorate World AIDS Day. World AIDS Day has become one of the most widely recognized international health days and a key opportunity to raise awareness, honor those who have died, and celebrate victories such as increased access to treatment and prevention services.

The Feature Film

When a struggling writer, HIV-positive for 20+ years, accidentally deposits a $100 birthday check, he is dropped from his health plan for earning too much. In this new era of sort-of universal care, can he take on a helpless bureaucracy or come up with $3000 a month to buy meds on his own? Danny Glover, James Roday Rodriguez, Khandi Alexander, and Robin Weigert star in PUSHING DEAD, a film about being strengthened by a challenge, not weakened by a disease.

The Writer/Director

Tom E. Brown (in attendance) is about to celebrate his 40-year anniversary living with HIV. Tom’s films have been featured at the American Museum of Natural History, the Walker Art Center, and the Guggenheim. He is a Rockefeller Foundation and Sundance Institute fellow. Tom has given lectures across the country focusing on his experience with chronic illness and how he finds the funny in the ache.

Sponsor

• Gilead

Community Partners

• Affirmations LGBTQ+ Community Center

• Cinema Lamont

• Ferndale Pride

• LGBT Detroit

• The Market Detroit

• Motor City Pride

• Ruth Ellis Center

• SEMHAC

Additional Support

• Sundance Institute

• Synergetic Distribution

The Senate Theater and The Detroit Theater Organ Society is supported by The Michigan Arts and Culture Council and The National Endowment for the Arts. 

Parking is available in our gated lot, on Gilbert, and Michigan Avenue

Join #TeamGSR for our 2nd Annual D6 Movie Night! This free screening of Puss in Boots will include a free hotdog, popcorn, beverage, and candy for the first 300 attendees!

An exclusive screening of award-winning writer and filmmaker dream hampton’s powerful new documentary, presented by the Museum of Contempory Art Detroit with a panel discussion to follow with the filmmaker. DOORS AT 5:30

Join us at the historic Senate Theatre for an exclusive screening of award-winning writer and filmmaker dream hampton’s powerful new documentary, It Was All A Dream. A visual memoir reflecting on the dawn of the golden era of hip-hop from hamptons personal archives, takes viewers inside the studio with intimate access to some of rap’s most celebrated minds, including hampton’s neighbor The Notorious BIG, Wu Tang’s Method Man, Mobb Deep, Snoop Dogg and many more. And celebrates a phenomenal era in hip-hop history. Experience an evening of thought-provoking storytelling that challenges norms and inspires change. Following the film, we’ll have a short discussion and Q&A with the director and MOCADs Co-Director/Artistic Director, Jova Lynne . Don’t miss this chance to witness a groundbreaking work that pushes boundaries!

About the event:

Join Diary of a Wimpy Kid author, Jeff

Kinney LIVE in Detroit for The Hot Mess Show, a deliciously entertaining and interactive one hour event. Jeff will be serving up laughs and celebrating the latest Wimpy Kid book, while satisfying your craving for family fun! Audience members will have a chance to join Jeff on stage for a family-style feast of friendly competition! Make your next family outing a HOT one!

How to join:

The admission ticket can be purchased at this link. Each ticket purchase includes admission for 2 people and 1 signed copy of Diary of a Wimpy Kid #19 : Hot Mess. Tickets are $26 ($14.99 cost of book + venue fees and tax). Please present your ticket to bookstore staff and recieve a book upon entering the event. There will be addtional books and other new related Wimpy Kid books and items for sale at the event.

(We can not control the Eventbrite language about 2 for 1 package with two tickets, please see the above information.)

About the book:

In Hot Mess, book 19 of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series from #1 international bestselling author Jeff Kinney, Greg Heffley is in for a particularly awkward summer with his whole family.
The pressure is building for Greg Heffley, who discovers that when you mix heaps of family, a tiny beach house, and sweltering heat, it’s a recipe for disaster.
Speaking of recipes—the secret ingredients behind Gramma’s famous meatballs have been closely guarded for years. Can Greg unpack all of his family’s mysteries before their vacation is over? Or will he just stir the pot?

This sidesplittingly relatable summer story is the funniest Wimpy Kid book yet!

About the Author

Jeff Kinney is a #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series and the Awesome Friendly Kid series. He is a six–time Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Award winner for Favorite Book and has been named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World.

Sat. Oct. 26 

Doors – 6:00 PM 

Organ Overture – 7:30 PM 

Film – 8:00 PM  

1hr 23min | R | Horror | USA 

After Party – 10:00 PM - Midnight 

Tickets – $10 

Full bar 

Costume contest 

Halloween themed art and music 

A night of film, art, and seasonal vibes to benefit the Senate Theater!

Join us for a special screening of Tobe Hooper’s disturbing and influential horror classic The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. Much like the Senate Theater, this independent, low-budget sensation—a grimy bit of 1970s cinematic grit—has endured for decades and is sure to capture your imagination. Unlike the Senate Theater, it follows a group of hapless travelers, lost and reeling in the oppressive heat of the Texas summer, who stumble upon a family of cannibals. Things do not go well. 

But at least you can help keep the music and movies alive in Southwest Detroit! 

All proceeds support the Senate Theater and the further restoration of our historic Mighty Wurlitzer theater pipe organ. 

In addition to our usual film screening, you can expect an extra special spooky organ overture, costume contest, art show, eerie seasonal music, and a full bar. Admission starts at $10 but further donations of any amount are graciously accepted.  

The Senate Theater and The Detroit Theater Organ Society is supported by The Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and The National Endowment for the Arts.

Parking is available in our gated lot, on Gilbert, and Michigan Avenue

MICHIGAN MADE DOCUMENTARY!

BENEFITS THE SENATE THEATER

CO-CREATORS JOSEPH BEYER AND JORDAN IN ATTENDANCE WITH PRODUCERS BETH MILLIGAN AND CHRISTAL FROST ANDERSON

$10 TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR

About:

No one fights to preserve a multiplex, but some people will risk everything to save a marquee. Through booms and busts, Delft Theatres Inc. - and its innovative gem, The Nordic - endured in Marquette Michigan for almost 100 years, even as the world changed endlessly around them. Local kid Bernie Rosendahl’s modern crusade to restore the historic arthouse to its former glory leads filmmakers to discover a hidden cinema empire in the Upper Peninsula.

Portraying the fascinating history of motion pictures through one iconic screen - and featuring dozens of real-life Marquette locations and characters - Marqueetown is the true story of chasing your dreams, redefining failure and success, and reembracing the enduring magic of cinema.

Embark on a riveting journey of self-discovery with “Debating Destiny,” a captivating new play by James Anthony Tyler (“The Drop Off,” “hop the A,” “Some Old Black Man”).

Join Udonis Sparks as he confronts loss, discovers hidden talents, and faces life-altering choices. With teenage antics, rapid-fire banter, and heartwarming revelations, “Debating Destiny” offers a poignant exploration of the complexities of growing up through the art of debate. Don’t miss the world premiere of this amazing theatrical experience. Grab your tickets today.

About Mosaic Youth Theatre:

Mosaic Youth Theatre of Detroit is one of Southeast Michigan’s most highly regarded cultural treasures.

Our critically acclaimed student-driven performances and national and international tours have brought worldwide attention to Detroit as a center for arts and culture while shining a spotlight on the area’s talented young people and creating new and diverse audiences for the performing arts.

Nuestra Cultura's Chicano History Week 2024 (Detroit, MI)

Join us for an exciting event celebrating Chicano History at the Senate Theater in Detroit, MI! Get ready for a vibrant and immersive experience as we explore the rich cultural heritage of the Chicano community. We will be screening the film, American Homeboy, by Director Brandon Loran Maxwell. From engaging live art and thought-provoking panel discussions to Chicano art exhibitions, this event promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Chicano history and culture.

American Homeboy is a documentary film that explores the complex origins of pachuco and cholo culture which sprouted from American soil in response to wartime sentiment, social alienation, and government discrimination only to become a pop culture phenomenon. The film draws from rare interviews shot on 5k with leading Mexican American historians, academics, artists, activists, cholos, and former law enforcement officers against a backdrop of 50 hours of restored archival footage.

Ballet Folklórico De Detroit is a volunteer run organization that provides affordable dance classes to the community. Join us for their annual holiday concert of traditional Mexican folk dancing,

Ballet folklórico, traditional Mexican folk dancing, is not any one style of dance, but rather, the  combination of traditional indigenous roots mixed with African, Spanish or other European styles.  Ballet folklórico encompasses all of these various traditional, regional and ethnically diverse dances.

Join Council Member Santiago-Romero for free, family-friendly fun at The Senate Theater on Wednesday November 8. We will be screening the animated classic, Shrek, and providing complimentary refreshments to the first 200 guests!