[1] Construction of the opera house cost an estimated $60,000 (equivalent to $2,110,000 in 2023), and was financed partially by special sales of merchandise from Steinberg's retail business.

The State featured two large murals on the side walls of the auditorium, depicting futuristic visions of cherry ochards and pine trees.

[2] On opening day, June 30, 1949, Butterfield advertised that "every innovation in the motion picture theatre field which can add to the comfort and enjoyment of patrons has been included."

The conversion attracted the attention of the local Rotary Club, who performed an annual variety show at the State, but they were unable to make any changes to the plans.

GKC closed the State in 1996, selling it to local philanthropist Barry Cole, who intended to present live performances in the space.

One significant addition to the State is a new ceiling, using fiber optics to depict twinkling stars, in a contemporary interpretation of the atmospheric theatre.

The atmospheric ceiling was designed by Jerry Dobek, professor of astronomy at Northwestern Michigan College, and accurately depicts the view from Traverse City on a clear night in August.

[12] The State Theatre offers a variety of weekly programming, from 25¢ Classic and $1 kids matinees and Sensory friendly screenings, to Friday Night Flicks.

[6] The State also has an entire week of free screenings each year to coincide with the spring break of Traverse City Area Public Schools.