The State Theater opened in 1942 and was applauded for its energetic, jazzy Art Deco style. It was designed by the architect C. Howard Crane. Crane was known throughout Michigan for his talent in theater design. The theater's eye-catching exterior has remained virtually intact over the years and has been an Ann Arbor landmark since the day the theater opened. The theater was originally owned by the Butterfield Company. This company owned many theaters throughout the state of Michigan. The building was sold to Hogarth Management in 1989. Although Hogarth gutted the interior of the first floor to provide retail space, they left the other theaters relatively intact. Today the brilliant neon sign remains the buildings most striking characteristic. The sign contributes to the historical, yet lively, ambiance of State Street.