Do You Know How the MJR Clap Started?
At MJR Theatres, audience members clap during the pre-show theme song. But why?
Editor’s Note: After this post was made, with help from readers like you, WDET reported on how the MJR clap started. Listen to the full story here: WDET EXCLUSIVE: The Origin of the MJR Clap
If you’ve been to one of the ten MJR movie theaters in Southeast Michigan, you’ve heard their catchy theme song that declares, “it’s more fun at MJR.”
And more than likely you’ve seen your fellow audience members spontaneously clap three times in a row after the lyrics, “it’s more than just a movie — it’s a big night out!”
Clap! Clap! Clap!
But why? How did this clapping start?
The Detroit News reported on the mysterious clapping a few years back, but they couldn’t crack the case. That means the origin of the clapping is still a big mystery. WDET “Investigative” Community Reporter Laura Herberg is going to try to get to the bottom of it — but she needs your help.
We Need Your Help
Call us and leave a voicemail or record a voice memo on your phone and send it to us answering any or all of the following:
- What was it like the first time you experienced the MJR clap? What theater were you at and what year was it?
- Are you a clapper? Or a non-clapper? Why or why not?
- What is your theory as to how the MJR clapping began?
To leave a voicemail, call (248) 660-9338. Or, record a voice memo on your smart phone and email it to laura.herberg@wdet.org. Please include your full name, the spelling, and the city you live in.
Alone … we are two hands clapping. Together … we are applause.
12/21/18 UPDATE: With your help, WDET was able to put together this report: WDET EXCLUSIVE: The Origin of the MJR Clap
