CLEVELAND — It’s one of Cleveland’s most iconic venues – Playhouse Square.
Over the past 100 years, the theaters have grown into a downtown landmark and a top place to visit.
But beyond the flashy shows and crowds of people, there are layers of history.
“These theaters [were] showing vaudeville, silent movies, and theatrical productions through the 1920s,” said Kristen Jantonio, communications manager for Playhouse Square. “They were really in their heyday then.”
It’s this history that you might not know about if you just stop in for a show.
“So often, we are rushing, trying to get to our seat,” Jantonio said, "not paying attention to what’s going on around us.”
Now, you have that chance to dive into theater history.
For the first time since 2020, Playhouse Square will restart its free public tours. During the tour, they’ll show the small details that made the theaters into what they are today.
For example, Cleveland almost lost Playhouse Square in the 1960s.
“[Then] in 1972, we had the productions of Jaques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris over in the State Lobby,” Jantonio explained. “It ended up going on for two years… it brought life back into the theaters.”
Tours will explore the renovations of Playhouse Square and learn about over 100 years of theater history.
And no two tours will be the exact same.
“We have things going on in the theaters at different times, so sometimes you can go in and see it, and sometimes you might not be able to.”
Some tours could even have the opportunity to go behind the scenes of the stages, but that access will depend on who’s in town and who will be using the space, according to Jantonio.
But no matter what you see, you’ll learn something new about Cleveland’s famed theaters.
“It’s exciting to have a different experience each time you’re here.”
Tours will be available only on select Saturdays. The March and April tour dates are already fully booked, but Jantonio says they’re working on adding more dates.
“Folks are really excited about these tours,” she added.
Private tours of Playhouse Square are also available for a small fee.
All the information can be found HERE.