The Magic Bag Detroit is a popular music venue located in the city of Ferndale, Michigan. Known for its intimate setting and diverse lineup of musical acts, The Magic Bag has been a staple of the Detroit music scene for over 20 years. Originally opened in 1992, The Magic Bag quickly gained a reputation for hosting some of the best live music in the Detroit area. The venue has a capacity of around 400 people, providing an up-close and personal experience for concert-goers. The Magic Bag is known for its unique atmosphere, with a vintage-inspired decor and an old-school, speakeasy vibe. The venue has hosted a wide variety of musical acts, ranging from rock and punk to blues and folk.
The Magic of The Magic Bag: The Long History (And Bright Future) of Ferndale’s Premier Concert Venue
Anyone driving on Woodward Avenue through Ferndale will recognize the famous marquee of the Magic Bag. Sandwiched between popular restaurants, the theater features an ever-revolving list of bands and movies beneath the iconic cat logo. The theater is popular for its intimate settings and incredible line-ups, but its residency in Ferndale’s history is not as well known.
The Magic Bag has been around a long time, under many different names, a centerpiece for Ferndale’s entertainment scene since the early 1920s. When it originally opened as the Ferndale Theater, it played feature films, newsreels, and animated specials. Patrons spent entire afternoons in the Ferndale Theater, catching up on current events and movies. For decades it was an incredibly popular theater with parking located in the middle median of Woodward.
In the 1960s the theater changed names to Studio North and changed its focus to independent films, playing artistic and foreign films that weren’t being shown anywhere else. Studio North’s unique movie choices attracted spectators from all over Oakland County.
By the mid 1970’s, the unique movies played at Studio North got a bit more racy. The iconic marquee on the ever- busy Woodward Avenue offered titles including Street Girls and Debbie Does Dallas, eventually including live dancers the line up. As the theater turned into a grindhouse, Oakland County and the city of Ferndale began to protest. Legal battles began
between the City and the theater. In 1989, Oakland County prevailed and shut down the recently renamed Déjà Vu.
In the early 1990’s, Jeremy Haberman worked with the previous owner to reopen the doors. Jeremy set out to renovate the theater and recreate it as a concert venue. Although he kept many original features like the marquee and globe lights, Jeremy worked with architects to redo the lobby and seating area. New tiers for the audience made sure that every seat in the house had a clear view of the stage. General admission seating rather than the theater seats offered more variety and flexibility in staging shows.
Throughout the last twenty-odd years, the Magic Bag has become one of the most renowned concert venues in the Metro Detroit area. The theater has featured a variety of musicians and comedians at reasonable ticket prices. From classic rock to ex-pop stars, there is a show for everyone on any given month.
Upcoming events include the Mega 80’s, JD McPherson and Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band. The Magic Bag occasionally features the Brew & View, playing classic and independent movies like the theater’s predecessor while operating a full-service bar. The theater is also available to rent out for public or private events.
Ferndale's Magic Bag owners fear COVID-19 closures may cause iconic venue to close
FERNDALE, Mich. (FOX 2) - After more than six long months, the Magic Bag in Ferndale is being allowed to reopen in 9 days but the owner is concerned it's too late.
The Magic Bag in Ferndale has been THE venue for upcoming bands for decades but it's been dark since March 12 due to the COVID-19 pandemic when Michigan businesses were closed.
Magic Bag in Ferndale faces grim future amid COVID-19
The owner of the Magic Bag is concerned the iconic venue may not survive COVID-19.
"We've had everybody in this place from Jack White and The White Stripes to Leon Russell, and right now, one of our biggest acts are cover acts," said Magic Bag owner Andy Bochenek.
With the prospect of reopening possible on October 9, is that enough to save this business? Bochenek said it's possible the iconic venue goes under.
There are significant costs associated with putting on a concert. But Governor Gretchen Whitmer did allow venues like this to reopen as of October 9, at 20% capacity.
"I trust that she's doing the right thing," Bochenek said it may cost him his business but he's willing to do what it takes to save lives.
The reality of COVID-19 is personal for the Magic Bag as Bochenek's business partner, Carrey Denha, had the virus. While he's recovered, he said it was difficult.
"One person, one person out of 400. What if that person spreads it to their family their uncle, their grandmother, grandfather, we couldn't live with ourselves," Bochenek said.
Help is on the way as supporters are encouraging the legislature to pass a bill that would help the Magic Bag and other independent music venues through SaveMIStages.
Representative Robert Wittenberg said there could be some federal money remaining to help out but help is needed.
"I'm really pushing for s a supplemental appropriation to support these independent venues so that they can make it. This is a gem," he said.
Although the budget has already been passed, there could be some federal money this year -which might help.
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The venue has hosted a wide variety of musical acts, ranging from rock and punk to blues and folk. Over the years, The Magic Bag has welcomed both local and national artists, including bands like The White Stripes, The Raconteurs, and The Detroit Cobras. The venue also regularly hosts tribute bands, comedy shows, and film screenings, adding to its diverse entertainment offerings.
In addition to live music, The Magic Bag offers a full bar and menu of pub-style food. Concert-goers can enjoy a drink and a bite to eat while taking in a show, creating a unique and enjoyable experience. The venue's staff is known for their friendly and attentive service, further enhancing the overall atmosphere. The Magic Bag has become a beloved institution in the Detroit area, attracting both local residents and visitors from across the region. Its reputation as a premier live music venue continues to grow, with many artists and fans considering it a must-visit spot for a memorable night out. Overall, The Magic Bag Detroit is a special place that captures the spirit of the city's vibrant music scene. With its intimate setting, diverse lineup of acts, and unique atmosphere, it stands as a testament to the power of live music and the role it plays in bringing people together..
Reviews for "The Magic Bag Detroit: A Nightlife Destination with Soul"
- John Smith - 2/5 stars - I was really disappointed with my experience at The Magic Bag in Detroit. The venue itself was very outdated and in need of some serious renovations. The seating was uncomfortable and cramped, and the sound quality was terrible. I could barely hear the band over the loud chatter of the crowd. The drink prices were also ridiculously high, even for a concert venue. Overall, I would not recommend going to The Magic Bag if you're looking for a quality concert experience.
- Emily Johnson - 1/5 stars - My visit to The Magic Bag in Detroit was a complete disaster. The staff was rude and unhelpful, showing no interest in making sure that the patrons were having a good time. The line for the bathroom was incredibly long and the facilities were dirty and poorly maintained. The venue was overpacked, making it impossible to enjoy the concert without constantly getting bumped into by other people. The ticket prices were also way too high for the poor quality of the experience. I will never be going back to The Magic Bag.
- Sarah Thompson - 2/5 stars - I had high hopes for The Magic Bag in Detroit, but sadly it fell short of my expectations. The venue itself is quite small, making it difficult to see the stage unless you get there early and secure a good spot. The sound quality was also not great, with a lot of distortion and feedback. The drink selection was limited and overpriced, and the staff seemed more interested in socializing with each other than actually helping the customers. I would not recommend The Magic Bag for a memorable concert experience.