Since its inception in 1928, the Michigan Theater has been one of Ann Arbor's most enduring and instantly recognizable features - can you imagine walking down East Liberty Street without seeing that glorious neon sign looming above? In many respects, the theater defines the arts scene in Ann Arbor, with its penchant for provocative and off-beat musicians - Yo La Tengo, Jeff Tweedy, Patti Smith - its revolving lineup of the latest award-winning independent films and, perhaps most significantly, its lofty position as the showcase for both the Ann Arbor Film Festival and the Ann Arbor Symphony.

A true supporter of the independent film movement, the Michigan's most immediately noticeable characteristic is the slew of not-so-recognizable movie titles that adorns its marquee. But the films it shows are consistently well-received and notable, and the theater continues to be the place to see the next big Oscar contenders. In fact, its pure love of all things cinematic is what sets the theater apart from its contenders. What other theater shows free Christmas classics during the holidays?

A perfect counterpoint to the State Theater's endearing "small town" vibe, the feel of the Michigan is one of a sleek, big city movie palace unchanged by time, complete with one of the country's few remaining original Barton organs. When it was originally built, the theater's architect, Maurice Finkel, pictured it as "a shrine to art." It has now become more than that - once a lavish theater dedicated to the latest and best in entertainment, it's now a symbol of the rich history and culture of Ann Arbor. When the Michigan was close to demolition in 1978, for example, students, artists and other inhabitants of Ann Arbor all gathered together to pull the theater out of debt - a true sign of the lasting impact it's had on the people in and around this city.