Media
AADL Talks To: Russ Collins, Executive Director/CEO Marquee Arts
Russ Collins grew up in Ann Arbor and received a Masters degree in Arts Administration from the University of Michigan just before becoming Manager of the Michigan Theater in November 1982. Russ walks us through the evolution of the Michigan Theater over its near-100-year history, from the vaudeville and silent film eras through the ups and downs of the celluloid and digital eras. He also takes us into the weeds of technical changes over the years; discusses historical preservation efforts in renovations to both the Michigan and the State theaters; and touches on programming and marketing challenges following the collapse of the newspaper industry. Russ will retire in December 2024.
Group Gathers around Performance on Barton Organ at Michigan Theater, August 1979 Photographer: Robert Chase
Year:
1979
Silents, Please, And Back-Up On Barton Organ
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You, Too, Can Prowl Organ Chamber
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Playing the Barton Organ at Michigan Theater, February 1979 Photographer: Jack Stubbs
Year:
1979
Henry Aldridge, Rupert Otto, and Newton Bates with the Barton Organ at Michigan Theater, February 1979 Photographer: Larry E. Wright
Year:
1979
Ann Arbor News, February 11, 1979
Caption:
Over a half-century old, the mighty Barton pipe organ in the Michigan Theatre is one of only two such instruments played regularly in the U.S. Not [sic] its future is uncertain and that saddens the likes of Hanry [sic] Aldridge, Below left, Rupert Otto, center, and Newton Bates who have lovingly played at its console since they helped restore it in 1971.
David J. Lau examines the Barton Organ at the Michigan Theater, December 1973 Photographer: Cecil Lockard
Year:
1973
Ann Arbor News, December 2, 1973
Caption:
David J. Lau of the Ann Arbor chapter of the Motor City Organ Society looks down the horn pipes of the Barton organ in the Michigan Theater.
Henry Aldridge and Newton Bates Pose with Barton Organ at Michigan Theater, January 1993 Photographer: Kyndell Thompson
Year:
1993
Ann Arbor News, January 31, 1993
Caption:
Henry Aldridge, left, and Newton Bates have been playing the organ at the Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St., for 20 years without pay.
Media
Behind The Marquee: Episode 34 - Barton Organ Restoration
Nick is joined by Michigan Theater house organist David Hufford to discuss his work to restore the historic Barton Organ, what makes it unique, a bit of its history, and what it’s like to accompany a silent film or sing-along.