Motown Museum to unveil new outdoor gathering space May 19

Over the past few years, the Motown Museum has been raising funds to undertake a $50 million expansion and renovation, including adding 40,000 square feet of space behind the main building. On Sunday, May 19 the museum will unveil a small but important part of this major project.

As part of its annual Founder’s Day event—which honors Esther Gordy Edwards, museum founder and sister to Berry Gordy—the Motown Museum will officially open Dancing in the Street Park. The outdoor gathering that will be activated from May to October with public events and programs.

The park was done in partnership with the Project for Public Spaces and grant funding from the William Davidson Foundation and Detroit Regional Chamber Foundation. Hamilton Anderson Associates provided pro bono design work.

Dancing in the Street Park, on the lot just east of the museum, has a blue mural on the concrete inspired by the iconic Motown ‘M.’ There’s also an interactive chalkboard wall, planters made from drums, and landscaping at the edges.

Hamilton Anderson Associates

Founders Day at the Motown Museum takes place from noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 19.

Other activities will be taking place throughout the day, and video booths will be available for visitors to record personal stories about Motown as part of its new exhibit, Reflections: My Motown Story. All visitors also get free admission to the museum.