Black Box Theatre Project
Act 1: Putting Theatre Center Stage
University of Detroit Mercy envisions a bright future for the performing arts. We are developing plans for a black box theatre located on the lower level of the newly renovated Student Union. Our students will explore their creativity and showcase their talents in this state-of-the-art performance and rehearsal space. This hub for cultural and artistic events will serve all of our students and transform our broader community.
Act 2: Staging the Future
March 2025: Finishes are going in!
December 2024: Walls go up in the Black Box Theatre!
November 2024: Framing and electrical construction continues.
July 2024: Construction begins.
February 2024: University of Detroit Mercy announced an anonymous $2 million gift to the black box theatre.
October 2023: The College of Humanities, Arts & Social Sciences, the Department of Performing Arts and University of Detroit Mercy Facilities Management and Campus Services is working with HED (formerly Harley Ellis Devereaux), an architecture and engineering firm based in Royal Oak, Michigan, to develop plans for the new black box theatre.
February 2023: Conceptual approval was received for a black box theatre on the University of Detroit Mercy McNichols Campus.
In the news
The Varsity News: Detroit Mercy receives $2 million gift for black box theater
In this article by student Jennifer Raptoplous, read more about the impact and opportunities made possible by an anonymous gift to the black box theatre project.
The Varsity News: Detroit Mercy working to bring black box theatre to campus
Through this article by student John Ogurek, get a peek behind the curtain as plans unfold to put theatre center stage at Detroit Mercy.
Construction Photos
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March 2025
The ticket office from the lobby.
New millwork in ticket office.
New roller shades along ramp wall.
New reception desk area.
The piping grid system for theater lighting.
A changing room in the backstage area.
Laundry room millwork. -
December 2024
The new lobby and ticket office area. 
The ramp that leads down to the stage and seating area.
The overlook of the stage and seating area.
The backstage area where the dressing rooms are located. -
November 2024
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August 2024
Support the Arts at Detroit Mercy
For more information on this project, contact:
Lindsay Robillard
Director of Development
College of Humanities, Arts & Social Science and School of Architecture & Community Development
University Advancement
robilllm@udmercy.edu
313-993-1429