Plan a Show, Visit the Pools or Book an Event at The Center
Ford Community & Performing Arts Center is a major recreation and cultural venue in Dearborn, Michigan. It brings together the 1,201-seat Michael A. Guido Theater, the Lincoln Ballroom, indoor swimming pools, fitness facilities, gymnasiums, the Padzieski Art Gallery and community programs under one roof.
Whether you are coming for a concert, theater production, fitness session, swim or private event, the important first step is choosing the correct schedule and admission process. Theater tickets and recreation passes are separate.
15801 Michigan Avenue
Dearborn, MI 48126
313-943-2354
Thu–Fri, 11 AM–4 PM
313-943-2381
Weekdays, 9 AM–4 PM
Upcoming Ford Community & Performing Arts Center Events
The Michael A. Guido Theater hosts concerts, stage productions, choral performances, orchestras and community arts events. The following dates are published on the official theater calendar as of October 16, 2026.
That’s My Cousin
A family-centered stage play featuring music, humor and a story about relationships, faith and personal choices.
Venue: Michael A. Guido Theater. Ticket prices depend on the performance listing.
Horns After Howls
A family-friendly brass band concert featuring lively music and a post-Halloween atmosphere, with costumes encouraged in the event description.
Forces of Nature — Dearborn Symphony
An orchestral program drawing on the natural world, including Beethoven’s Creatures of Prometheus Overture and Carnival of the Animals.
Vanguard Voices & Brass Autumn Concert
Choral music with brass accompaniment from Vanguard Voices and guest musicians.
Still We Sing
Presented through Concert of Colors neighborhood programming, featuring Omar Offendum’s Little Syria and guest Lubana Al-Quntar.
Published admission: Free.
Let the Holidays Begin — Dearborn Symphony
A holiday concert presented with DTE Foundation support.
Admission: Free, but tickets are required from the box office.
The Nutcracker
Ballet Americana presents the traditional holiday ballet.
Published performances: December 5 at 2 PM and 7 PM; December 6 at 2 PM.
Too Hot to Handel
A reimagining of Handel’s Messiah featuring jazz, gospel and R&B influences.
Ford Performing Arts Center Tickets and Seating
The Michael A. Guido Theater has 1,201 seats and offers several kinds of performances. Ticket prices are set by each event, not by a universal daily admission fee.
| Ticket Question | What Visitors Should Know |
|---|---|
| Can I buy tickets online? | Yes, use the official theater performance listing and authorized checkout link. |
| Can I purchase at the box office? | Yes, subject to box office opening hours and ticket availability. |
| When does the box office open? | Thursday and Friday, 11 AM–4 PM; also two hours before ticketed performances. |
| When do theater doors open? | Usually 30 minutes before the performance. |
| Can I bring a printed ticket? | Yes. Both printed tickets and tickets displayed on a phone can be scanned. |
| Are tickets refundable? | The published theater policy states tickets are nonrefundable and nonexchangeable. |
| Is accessible seating available? | Yes. Contact the box office to discuss available ADA seating options. |
How to Buy a Theater Ticket
- Open the official theater events calendar.
- Choose the correct performance and date.
- Read the event description to check age recommendations, admission type, seating and start time.
- Use its official ticket or registration link.
- Select the preferred ticket category and available seats if seat selection is offered.
- Review ticket charges and the no-refund policy before paying.
- Complete checkout using the authorized ticket provider.
- Save your ticket confirmation and bring the digital or printed ticket.
- Arrive before the performance; auditorium doors generally open about 30 minutes before showtime.
Box Office Contact and Assistance
Ticket phone: 313-943-2354.
Standard hours: Thursday and Friday, 11 AM–4 PM, and from two hours before ticketed performances through intermission.
Theater staff can help with accessible seating, hearing or visual accommodations and questions about a specific show’s ticketing requirements.
Theater Rules That Matter
- Large bags may be searched.
- Weapons, balloons, confetti and noise-making devices are prohibited.
- Indoor smoking is not allowed.
- Service animals are permitted.
- Food and beverages may be allowed inside the venue.
- A café is available on site.
- Flash photography is prohibited; some events restrict all photography or recording.
- Late seating is permitted only at appropriate breaks as decided by theater staff.
- There is no coat check.
- Elevators and accessible restrooms are available.
Building Hours vs. Box Office Hours
The Center is more than a theater. Its recreation areas, service desk and theater box office follow different hours, so check the schedule that matches your visit.
| Facility / Desk | Published Schedule |
|---|---|
| Center building · Monday–Friday | 5:30 AM–9 PM |
| Center building · Saturday | 8 AM–8 PM |
| Center building · Sunday | 8 AM–5 PM |
| Service desk · Monday–Friday | 8 AM–6 PM |
| Theater administration · Monday–Friday | 9 AM–4 PM |
| Theater box office · Thursday–Friday | 11 AM–4 PM |
| Box office on show days | Opens 2 hours before ticketed performances |
Published holiday exceptions: Good Friday and Juneteenth 8 AM–4 PM; closed Easter, Memorial Day, July 4 and Labor Day. Other special dates may affect operations.
Which Schedule Should You Follow?
Going to a Show?
Use the exact ticketed event time. General recreation building hours do not determine when performances start or end.
Swimming or Exercising?
Use the building schedule for general access, then verify the relevant pool, track, gym or fitness class timetable.
Buying Tickets in Person?
Go during box office hours, not merely during the broader building hours.
Discussing a Rental?
Use weekday theater administration hours and call 313-943-2381.
2026 Recreation Day Passes and Membership Prices
People visiting for exercise, indoor swimming or gym activities may purchase memberships or day passes according to the City of Dearborn’s published rates. These charges do not include theater performance tickets.
Day Passes
| Pass Category | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Youth | $5 | $10 |
| Student | $10 | $15 |
| Adult | $15 | $20 |
| Senior | $10 | $10 |
Monthly and Annual Memberships
| Membership | Resident Monthly / Annual | Non-Resident Monthly / Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Student (13–17) | $32 / $384 | $50 / $600 |
| Adult (18–59) | $38 / $456 | $57 / $684 |
| Family | $62 / $744 | $80 / $960 |
| Couple | $52 / $624 | $70 / $840 |
| Senior (60+) | $32 / $384 | $50 / $600 |
| Senior Couple | $42 / $500 | $60 / $720 |
Figures reflect rates displayed by the City of Dearborn in October 2026. Confirm membership contract terms, proof of residency, permitted access and any processing charges before purchase.
What Is Included With Membership?
- Two indoor swimming pools, subject to separate aquatic schedules.
- Fitness equipment, including cardiovascular and resistance-training facilities.
- Two gymnasiums when available for general use.
- Indoor running track.
- Access to eligible group exercise offerings, potentially at additional cost.
How to Choose the Correct Pass
- Decide whether you need one visit, a month or a longer membership.
- Check your resident status and bring documentation if requesting a discounted resident rate.
- Review the published rate for your age or household category.
- Check pool, gym and class availability before paying.
- Use the Center’s service desk for the purchase and check-in requirements, or the approved membership method.
Official rates and facility details: City of Dearborn — Ford Community & Performing Arts Center.
Swimming, Fitness, Art and Community Programs
Lap swimming, leisure swimming and aquatics programming, with schedules maintained separately from building hours.
Cardio equipment, free weights, strength training and indoor running or walking opportunities.
Two indoor gyms support recreation activities and scheduled sports programs.
Visual arts exhibitions and cultural activities. Exhibition and opening hours may differ from the Center’s hours.
Programs and services for older Dearborn-area residents, with separate activity calendars.
Community choir, youth theater, symphony opportunities and other arts activities.
Before Visiting the Pool
- Open the official Dearborn Pools page.
- Locate the indoor lap and leisure pool schedule for this Center.
- Choose lap swimming, family leisure swimming or lessons.
- Confirm the correct time and any age or registration requirements.
- Check whether an active membership, day pass or separate lesson registration applies.
- Bring suitable swimwear and the items required under the published pool rules.
The City of Dearborn offers swimming instruction from approximately six months through adulthood, with different levels and course times. Pool lesson schedules may change each season.
Group Exercise and Wellness
The Center offers group fitness such as yoga, Pilates-inspired classes, cycling, strength exercise and other activities, including options designed for older adults. Group exercise schedules and access may be managed using Glofox or through the service desk.
The DMC Wellness Center also provides health assessment, personal training and teen fitness orientation services at the facility. The City lists a $55 nonmember price for the standard wellness assessment, while personal training charges vary.
Ford Community & Performing Arts Center Event Rentals
Rental choices range from a full-scale theater to a ballroom, mid-size studio and smaller event rooms. The correct space depends on attendance, staging needs, food arrangements and the event format.
| Space | Published Capacity / Size | Suitable Events |
|---|---|---|
| Michael A. Guido Theater | 1,201 seats | Concerts, theater productions, major presentations and performances |
| Lincoln Ballroom | 15,000 sq ft; up to 800 guests | Weddings, banquets, trade shows, conferences and large celebrations |
| Studio A | Up to 150 guests | Small receptions, classes, meetings and social gatherings |
| Clubroom | Confirm capacity | Small meetings, gatherings and classroom-style functions |
| Wetroom | Confirm capacity | Small gatherings where sink access or food service is useful |
| Pool Party Package | Guest-dependent | Birthdays using an event room and nonexclusive leisure-pool access |
Birthday and Pool Party Packages
$260+
Party package prices begin at $260 and vary with the number of attendees.
3 Hours
Three hours in an event room, plus nonexclusive use of the leisure pool according to available pool times.
The rental page lists leisure-pool periods for parties as weekdays 6–8 PM, Saturday 1–5 PM and Sunday noon–4 PM. These are published scheduling windows, not confirmation that an individual date is available.
For ballroom, theater or studio rentals, publicly displayed prices are not a universal fixed rate. A quotation is needed for the date, space and service requirements.
How to Request a Rental
- Determine whether you need the theater, Lincoln Ballroom, Studio A, Clubroom, Wetroom or birthday package.
- Prepare the event date, backup date, estimated attendance and preferred start/end times.
- Estimate setup, rehearsal, catering, audio/visual and cleanup needs.
- Review the official theater and event rental information.
- Find the event application for the selected space.
- Call 313-943-2381 to discuss availability and a quotation.
- Ask what is included, such as furniture, sound equipment, staff, catering permissions and setup time.
- Clarify deposits, payment deadlines, cancellation rules, insurance requirements and possible overtime charges.
- Complete the official application and any required agreements.
- Wait for written confirmation before advertising the event as booked.
Ford Community & Performing Arts Center Map and Parking
Destination: 15801 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, Michigan 48126.
The Center is on Michigan Avenue in Dearborn and serves visitors from the city and surrounding Metro Detroit communities. Use the same destination for the Michael A. Guido Theater and Lincoln Ballroom, then follow event-specific arrival instructions for your room or entrance.
Parking and Arrival
The venue is served by parking areas around the Center. Specific space availability, reserved arrangements and accessible parking requirements may vary by event. No universal parking price was confirmed in the reviewed official visitor materials; check with the venue rather than assuming parking is free or paid.
- Theater performance: Aim to arrive before the usual 30-minute pre-show door opening, allowing extra time for parking.
- Wheelchair access: The theater has accessible seating and elevators. Contact the box office to arrange suitable seats and confirm accessible arrival details.
- Wedding or banquet: Ask the organizer which entrance and room your guests should use.
- Fitness or pool: Locate the recreation check-in desk rather than assuming the theater entrance is the correct access point.
- Public transportation: Check current Metro Detroit and Dearborn bus routes and schedules for a practical connection.
Contact by Type of Visit
| Your Purpose | Contact |
|---|---|
| Ticket questions / accessible theater seating | 313-943-2354 |
| Event rentals / theater administration | 313-943-2381 |
| City recreation / aquatic information | 313-943-2350 |
| Wellness and personal training | 313-943-2135 |
Pick the Right Path for Your Visit
Watching a Performance
Find the correct calendar listing, check ticket requirements and seat accessibility, and arrive near the designated door time.
Swimming or Fitness
Check the activity-specific timetable and day-pass price. A recreation pass does not automatically include ticketed performances.
Organizing a Wedding or Banquet
Use the Lincoln Ballroom or Studio A capacity information to shortlist a space, then request an event-specific quotation.
Exploring Community Arts
Look for Padzieski Gallery exhibitions, community choir, youth theater or other cultural programs and confirm the separate schedule.
Five Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Checking general building hours instead of the theater performance or box office schedule.
- Assuming a free show does not require a ticket.
- Buying a pool or fitness pass expecting admission to a concert.
- Assuming the recreation area’s operating hours match lap-swim or leisure-pool availability.
- Estimating a rental cost from room capacity without asking about staffing, catering and setup charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is Ford Community & Performing Arts Center located?
The Ford Community & Performing Arts Center is located at 15801 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, Michigan 48126. The Michael A. Guido Theater and Lincoln Ballroom are within the same complex.
2. What are the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center hours?
General facility hours are Monday–Friday 5:30 AM–9 PM, Saturday 8 AM–8 PM and Sunday 8 AM–5 PM. Individual recreation activities and theater performances follow separate schedules.
3. How do I buy tickets for Michael A. Guido Theater?
Use the official Dearborn Theater events calendar, select the performance, and follow its authorized ticket link. Tickets may also be available through the box office by phone or in person.
4. What are the Guido Theater box office hours?
The box office normally operates Thursday and Friday 11 AM–4 PM and opens two hours before ticketed performances. The ticket telephone number is 313-943-2354.
5. How many seats does Michael A. Guido Theater have?
The Michael A. Guido Theater has 1,201 seats and includes accessible seating options. Contact the box office for specific seating arrangements.
6. Is there parking at Ford Community & Performing Arts Center?
Parking areas serve the Center, but availability and event-specific arrangements may vary. Check posted restrictions and ask the venue about accessible parking or special event requirements.
7. Does Ford Community & Performing Arts Center have a swimming pool?
Yes. The facility has indoor lap and leisure pools. Their swimming schedules are separate from general building hours and should be checked on the City of Dearborn’s pools page.
8. How much is a recreation day pass?
Published resident/non-resident day passes cost $5/$10 for youth, $10/$15 for students, $15/$20 for adults and $10/$10 for seniors. These passes do not include theater show tickets.
9. Can I rent the Lincoln Ballroom for a wedding?
Yes. The Lincoln Ballroom offers approximately 15,000 square feet and a published maximum capacity of 800 guests. Call theater administration at 313-943-2381 for availability, pricing and event requirements.
10. Are Guido Theater tickets refundable?
The theater’s published policy states that purchased tickets are nonrefundable and nonexchangeable. Review the applicable ticket terms before completing payment.