Once billed as "one of the most modern theaters in the State of Michigan," the Vogue Theater will again become the beautiful landmark that so many Manistee residents remember. In February 2011, filmmaker Michael Moore came to Manistee with his vision for the Vogue...that its marquee lights will illuminate the downtown region and bring hundreds of people to shop, eat, and enjoy Manistee. This is what happened in Traverse City with the reopening of the State Theater, which is now the venue for the annual Film Festival. A generous $50,000 donation for the Vogue's restoration has been received, as well as $10,000 from Michael Moore. Through various other donations and with the help of volunteers, the Vogue Theater will hopefully re-open late in 2011.

HISTORY
It was 1938, and the effects of the Great Depression had hit Manistee hard. Film, then a new art form, was emerging as a popular distraction for Americans. After five years of planning, the Vogue Theater opened to the public on January 12, 1938. For the next 47 years, the Vogue entertained audiences with Hollywood films, but due to rising costs and declining community interest, the lights dimmed and the Vogue was closed. It was sold and reopened in 1985 as a two-screen theater. For various reasons, the theater closed two more times in 1995 and 2005...and seemed to close for good in 2008. The Manistee Downtown Development Authority then purchased the Vogue in 2010 for $65,000...and because of Michael Moore's enthusiasm and vision, the restoration project began.

Close to $1,000,000 must be raised for the Vogue Theater to open its doors. To donate or volunteer, visit www.manisteefoundation.org.