Olympia Ends Masonic Pact

Olympia Entertainment officials have decided not to renew the company’s management contract with Detroit’s 4,300-capacity Masonic Temple Theatre but continue working with venue owners in the meantime.

In a statement to the Detroit Free Press, Olympia officials said the two-year agreement with the theatre ended April 1.

“During management of the venue, Olympia invested millions of dollars in the operations of the facility, including paying off and restructuring debt on behalf of the Masonic Temple Association,” the Free Press said. “Olympia also worked diligently to book and promote entertainment acts and private events at the venue.

“We stepped into a very difficult situation and did our best, but unfortunately the business climate did not support continuation of the agreement.”

The Masonic Temple Theatre was previously operated by the Nederlander Organization in partnership with Olympia Entertainment. Olympia took over full operation in 2007.

The historic facility, built in 1926, has hosted a variety of shows in its history including Broadway plays and major concerts to community events.
Olympia, a division of Ilitch Holdings, also books Joe Louis Arena, Cobo Arena and the Fox Theatre.