Hilberry Theatre

The Hilberry Theatre is located at 4743 Cass Avenue in Midtown Detroit, Michigan where it is employed by 40-50 graduate students at the Wayne State University main campus, who are pursuing degrees in acting, directing, or design management. Created in 1963, the Hilberry Theatre is the oldest graduate repertory company in the United States. The Hilberry Theatre puts on roughly six different plays, both modern and classic, from October until May each year.HistoryIn February 1917, the First Church of Christ Scientist was built on the corner of Cass Avenue and Hancock Street, in the heat of Midtown Detroit. The Christian Scientists of Detroit was a growing community and in need of a location to hold their services. The building was able to hold up to 1,512 members and included a 60-foot stage and 22 rooms. Later on in 1961, it was bought and remodeled by Wayne State University. Wayne State purchased the Hilberry Theatre for $250,000 which included a $25,000 down payment and was officially owned by the University on June 15, 1961.After many renovations, the church was renamed the Hilberry Theatre, after Wayne States fourth president, Clarence B. Hilberry, and reopened in January 1964. There is now a bronze bust (sculpture) of Clarence Hilberry in the main lobby of the theatre in honor of all his great accomplishments. The first play that was performed at the Hilberry Theatre was called Shakespeare 400, in honor of William Shakespeare's 400th anniversary of birth. Today, the Hilberry Theatre is one of three different historical buildings that are now used for classes by Wayne State students. The Hilberry is also considered to be one of the best training grounds for new and upcoming actors/actresses and directors in the area.