"Pure Michigan" screen dedication ceremony held at Historic Vogue Theatre in Manistee

Michigan Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Michael A. Finney today joined state and community leaders in dedicating the “Pure Michigan” screen at the newly-renovated historic Vogue Theatre in Manistee.

LANSING, Mich. –Michigan Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Michael A. Finney today joined state and community leaders in dedicating the “Pure Michigan” screen at the newly-renovated historic Vogue Theatre in Manistee. 

“The renovation of this historic theatre into a vibrant entertainment venue will bring new vitality to downtown Manistee and serve as a catalyst for further positive activity in the community,” said MEDC President and CEO Michael A. Finney. “This project, set in the heart of downtown, was achieved through the efforts of the entire community and is symbolic of the best Pure Michigan has to offer.”

In May the Michigan Strategic Fund approved a $503,592 Michigan Community Revitalization Program performance-based grant for the redevelopment of the Vogue Theatre into a 235-seat movie theatre. The project included renovating both the interior and exterior of the building, making structural improvements, installing new sound and lighting equipment and new seating, and improving the surrounding sidewalks. The screen in the larger, 190-seat movie room was dedicated the “Pure Michigan” screen in recognition of the MCRP grant.

The two-year project is the largest volunteer-led, community-driven initiative in the history of Manistee. The City of Manistee Downtown Development Authority provided support to the project valued at $308,250 in the form of land contribution, locally committed grants and low interest loans. In addition, more than 650 individuals and organization have donated or granted funds for the $2.4 million capital campaign that has raised $1.9 million to date.

“The naming of the Pure Michigan screening area that will seat 190 people means that movie-goers for generations to come will recognize the statewide importance of the Vogue Theatre to Michigan’s economic well-being,” said Steve Brower, chair of the Vogue Theatre’s capital campaign and Treasurer of the Historic Vogue Theatre of Manistee, the nonprofit that owns and will operate the Theatre. “MEDC stepped in at a time that was crucial to get the restoration work underway and encourage others to donate or make grants to make this dream a reality.” 

On December 6, 2013, a Vogue Theatre Sneak Peek movie event, packaged with dinner and an “afterglow,” will be the debut for the Pure Michigan screen. The event is being hosted by the Historic Vogue Theatre of Manistee nonprofit. Event information is available at www.voguetheatremanistee.org. Tickets are available through MyNorth at (800) 836-0717.

Pure Michigan is a brand representing business, talent and tourism initiatives across Michigan. These efforts are driven by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, which serves as the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business growth, jobs and opportunity with a focus on helping grow Michigan’s economy. 

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan’s economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn, and Twitter.