Outside of the Fox Theatre, featuring the digital marquee to mark the new partnership stands Christopher Illitch, president and CEO, Illitch Holdings, left, Mike Ritchie, Michigan market president, Comerica Bank, center, and Howard Handler, president, 313 Presents.
Photo provided by Illitch Holdings
313 Presents today announced an expanded relationship with Comerica Bank. Detroit’s largest banking network provider will be the exclusive presenting partner of the iconic Fox Theatre in the heart of The District Detroit.
The partnership will feature community initiatives focused on youth empowerment. The philanthropic outreach combines resources from each partner to engage and connect community organizations and schools to the Fox Theatre and to other resources such as financial education and career development. Specific community-focused programming will be announced at a later date.
Additionally, the Fox Theatre and Comerica Bank will provide exclusive benefits for Comerica card holders, set to launch in 2022.
“The Fox Theatre is one of the most legendary showplaces of the world and plays an integral role within our community. We are excited to welcome Comerica Bank to help us amplify this beloved venue’s expansive array of world-class entertainment for our guests.” said Howard Handler, 313 Presents President. “Comerica Bank’s commitment to the Fox Theatre and Detroit is fully aligned with our goal to make a positive difference in people’s lives within and around the city.”
Comerica Bank’s presenting partnership with the Fox Theatre expands upon its established sports and entertainment relationships, including with the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Tigers, and deepens the bank’s investment into the city of Detroit and Southeast Michigan, which dates back 172 years.
“As one of the nation’s most iconic entertainment venues, the Fox Theatre is deeply rooted in Detroit’s rich history and has become vital to the city’s rebirth and renaissance over the past two decades,” said Mike Ritchie, Comerica Bank Michigan Market President. “Our goal in partnering with 313 Presents focuses on supporting the Fox Theatre’s presentation of marquee events and performances while preserving the grandness of the theatre’s authentic and original beauty. Additionally, we look forward to building collaborative philanthropic engagements that will further connect our communities to the Fox Theatre and create a lasting impact.”
Olympia Development of Michigan has also partnered with Comerica to name the parking garage located at 50 W. Montcalm Street, across from the historic Fox Theatre, the Comerica Garage, which includes new signage to be installed soon.
In July 1987, Michael and Marian Ilitch purchased the Fox Theatre and began a robust restoration of the building that cost more than $12 million to complete. After nearly a year-long renovation, 100 percent of the theater was restored, preserving 80 percent of the original finish, with added amenities that cater to discerning corporate and private patrons.
The suite level of the theater was converted into a private viewing area, providing an intimate setting for guests in 17 “suite style” boxes. The venue was declared a National Historical Landmark on June 29, 1989 and continues to offer an intimate and immersive performance experience for guests and artists alike. In addition to the annual Fox Theatre Series, which features a collection of award-winning Broadway musicals, interactive stage shows and treasured holiday favorites, the venue hosts a wide array of the most renowned names in music and entertainment.
Comerica Bank recognizes that its success is intertwined with the prosperity of the communities it serves. In 2020, Comerica Bank and Comerica Charitable Foundation committed nearly $2 million in supporting Michigan community programming and businesses impacted by the pandemic. Comerica also moved $2.5 million in deposits to First Independence Bank, the only Minority Depository Institution (MDI) headquartered in Michigan and located on Woodward Ave., that launched a strategic partnership this will help foster economic viability by assisting minority and under-served communities.
With 21 banking centers, Comerica is the only bank operating over 20 locations throughout the city and its neighborhoods. Comerica also provides one of the largest banking center networks in Southeast Michigan (145) and throughout the entire state of Michigan (188).
For additional information, visit 313Presents.com.
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