The theater was complete with a towering 80-foot vertical sign spelling out the theater's name (which could be seen for blocks up and down Harper Avenue) and lit up at night in multicolored neon lights.
The Harper cost about $290,000 to build, and was at the time one of the most modern-looking theaters to open in Detroit. It also featured murals in the lobby and auditorium by Thomas di Lorenzo. Opening week films included 'The Rains Came' and 'Chicken Wagon Family'.
It was converted into a nightclub in the 70s, and currently is home to Harpos Concert Theatre, the premier venue for heavy-metal and industrial rock bands in Detroit. Contributed by Bryan Krefft.
