This season invites us all to reflect on what makes the holidays meaningful, and for so many, the arts play a central role in creating cherished memories. Whether it’s a beloved family tradition, a special performance shared with loved ones, or a new experience that adds sparkle to the season, every moment spent with the arts brings a touch of magic that uplifts us.
This holiday season, immerse yourself in the wonder of Christmas in the Air! This first-class family experience is like a “snow globe come to life,” featuring dazzling Rockette-style dancers, world-class singers, and talented actors. Plus, Santa and his holiday friends will make special appearances, making this show a one-of-a-kind holiday greeting card delivered right to your front door!
For an extra dose of amazement, don’t miss Silhouettes, the world-renowned shadowdance company that rose to fame on America’s Got Talent, securing first runner-up in 2011 and the Golden Buzzer on America’s Got Talent: The Champions in 2020.
Finally, celebrate the season with our TubaChristmas performance—a free event where over 500 tubas fill the stage with your favorite holiday tunes! Gather your loved ones and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and wonder of the season.
During this time of year, our community shines a little brighter, filled with comfort, joy, and a sense of wonder that only the holidays can bring. Let’s keep the arts close to our hearts and remember that the HeART of Akron is at E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall—a place where beauty, unity, and awe fill our lives during the holidays and beyond. Wishing everyone a season filled with warmth, inspiration, and the extraordinary magic of the arts!
Advance tickets are available at the E.J. Thomas Hall Ticket Office Monday through Friday 10 am-4 pm. On days of shows, the Box Office is open two hours prior to show times and is located in the parking deck.
Refunds – Please check your tickets carefully, as all sales are final. Exchanges are not permitted. Refunds are given if an event is canceled and are refunded to the original purchaser at the point of purchase.
Beware of Ticket Scalpers
E.J. Thomas Hall is not responsible for tickets purchased through unauthorized third parties.
Tickets to E.J. Thomas Hall events may not be resold at a premium.
Tickets ordered within nine (9) days of the performance will be held at Will Call. A photo ID is required to pick up Will Call tickets.
Gift Certificates are available and are valid for up to one year from the date of purchase.
Cancellations, postponed events, or inclement weather – On rare occasions severe weather may cause E.J. Thomas Hall to cancel or postpone an event. Event cancellation information is available by calling The University of Akron emergency information number at 330972-SNOW (7669.) You may also visit our website, Facebook page, or Twitter for the most up-to-date information.
Guest Services
Assistive Listening System
With the help of generous donors, E.J. has installed new sound and lighting systems to enhance the overall experience for both performers and audiences. Our new Williams Assisted Listening system allows live audio streaming to personal hearing devices over Wi-Fi; a fantastic addition that will enable a more immersive and accessible experience for attendees. To access connect to WaveCAST App, open the app, select the “Discover by IP” option and enter “10.48.30.12” and you are connected.
Accessible Seating
E.J. Thomas Hall has seating for patrons in wheelchairs and special needs at Entry 10 in the Orchestra and Entry 14 on the Grand Tier level. Patrons needing assistance to their seat may stop at the Information Counter in McCormick Lobby. An usher will assist you with wheelchair transportation to your seating area. Requests should be made when ordering tickets by calling the Ticket Office at 330253-2488.
Handicap Parking
There are a limited number of handicap parking spaces available in the E.J. Thomas Hall parking deck. Additional spaces are located in Lots 26 and 27, directly across from the Hill Street entrance. Show a valid H/C permit and traffic police will direct you to the nearest spot.
Parking
Event parking fees vary based on production contracts and lot availability may fluctuate.
Accessible Restrooms
Accessible restrooms are located at the bottom of both ramps on either side of the building.
Family Events
Some events at E.J. Thomas Hall are specifically designed for children and families, and we encourage you to enjoy these events. For performances not suitable for young children, parents are asked to use discretion.
Seating Latecomers
Please note the curtain time printed on your tickets as performances begin promptly. Latecomers will be seated at a suitable pause in the program. This includes patrons who leave the auditorium before or during a selection.
Intermission
Intermissions are 20 minutes in length. Lobby lights will flash as your signal to return to your seat for the start of the performance.
For a Wonderful Evening …
Live performance is truly magical; art created from the energy flowing between people on both sides of the curtain. When you attend a show, you are part of the experience. There is no rewind or instant replay at a live event.
In general:
n Read the program notes.
Theater Policies
n Cameras or any other recording devices are not permitted. Please silence all electronic devices as a courtesy to both other audience members and the performers.
n Unless instructed to do so by the performers, do not talk, hum, sing along or beat time.
n Aisles must be kept free of any obstructions for safety.
n For your enjoyment, food and beverages purchased at E.J. Thomas Hall are permitted inside the theatre for select shows.
n In the event of an emergency, ushers and other members of the staff will advise audience members as to the appropriate procedures to exit the theater as quickly and safely as possible. Patrons needing special assistance should contact the ushers.
Happy
NOVEMBER 26, 2024 Charo
Looking for a night of unforgettable entertainment? Pop culture icon and “Cuchi Cuchi“ Diva, Charo is bringing her amazing show, filled with infectious humor and virtuoso Flamenco guitar. Charo’s talents have captivated audiences worldwide. The Spanishborn actress has been twice voted “Best Classical Flamenco Guitarist in the World” by Guitar Player Magazine. Come and see what The New York Times referred to as “The Brilliance of Charo.”
DECEMBER 10, 2024 Christmas in the Air
Christmas in the Air is a first-class Broadway-style song and dance review, wrapped up within a feelgood holiday storyline, told by Santa’s favorite elves. Starring Rand Productions’ dazzling precision dancers, known as the Tinsel-toes, this “snow globe come to life” experience features high-kicking Rockette-style dancers, along with world-class singers and actors, and special appearances by Santa and several of his well-known holiday pals. It truly delivers a little something for every family member to enjoy—a perfect mix of classic holiday melodies, with modern favorites and original music.
DECEMBER 15, 2024
The Magical Polar Experience
All aboard for the magical polar experience! You’ll be mesmerized by this fully interactive experience filled with the Holiday wonder of “The Polar Experience!” Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a conductor & stow-a-ways who will punch your tickets. You’ll then be seated where the fun will begin! Please come dressed in your pajamas & prepare for the adventure of a lifetime! See the movie on the big screen, live musical performances, dancers and prima ballerinas, the Northern lights, a visit to The North Pole, a visit from the Big Guy and plenty more surprises. It’s an experience unlike any other!
Holidays!
DECEMBER 17, 2024
The Silhouettes Light of Christmas Show
Established in 2009, The Silhouettes® is a USA-based world-renowned shadow-dance company that rose to stardom via America’s Got Talent!—garnering an immense global following. This 90-minute theatrical performance brings the spirit of Christmas to the holiday season. Act 1 of the show celebrates wonderful holiday traditions—shopping, baking cookies, gifts, picking out the tree, the story of Mary and Joseph and the Magi as told by Grandma reading to her granddaughter. Act 2 begins with Christmas morning and the excitement of opening presents, continues with a family trip to Santaland, the granddaughter giving gifts to people in need, and then taking a trip to help children around the world experience the joy of the holiday season and the light of Christmas.
DECEMBER 21, 2024
TubaChristmas
TubaChristmas 2024 is back! Magical and musical, Tuba Maestro Tucker Jolly conducts the 44th annual holiday sing along joined by tuba professor Chris Blaha. Join the plethora of tuba players in ringing in the holidays by listening to and singing along to Christmas carols played by a group of tubas. For those who love the low brass oom-pah-pah, the stage will be full of musicians of all ages and experience—all decked out in the holiday spirit. It’s an experience you don’t want to miss. Admission is free, but seats fill up fast! And this year marks the 51st anniversary of the Tuba concerts worldwide.
WE HAVE STORIES TO TELL
DECEMBER 30, 2024 Mannheim Steamroller Christmas
The world’s favorite holiday tradition for over 35 years! Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis creates a show filled to the brim with classic carols and original songs performed by award winning musical talent. Mannheim Steamroller Christmas is embellished with enough lights and dazzling multimedia effects to create a Christmas sensation straight out of the North Pole. The program includes 15 musicians playing more than 20 instruments against a backdrop of dazzling multimedia effects— capturing the spirit of the season in an immersive yet intimate setting. It’s the ultimate holiday tradition!
And coming in January…
JANUARY 26, 2025 One Night
In Memphis
One Night in Memphis, created and directed by John Mueller, is the number one and official tribute to legendary Sun Records recording artists Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Elvis Presley. Hear authentic rockabilly, country, gospel and 1950s rock and roll. Be a witness to and experience rock and roll royalty with the music and talent that has stood the test of time. True American music featuring acclaimed national talent guaranteed to get you rocking and rolling. There’s a whole lotta shakin’ going on!
Old Trail School goes further than a traditional educational setting.
We create an environment where students acquire the essential skills to inspire a lifetime of learning. Whether performing in a play, competing on our cross country team, or participating in service learning projects, students excel academically while growing in social, emotional and physical development. Our graduates leave middle school prepared to lead with character, critical thinking and compassion.
2025 E.J. THOMAS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
JANUARY
Sat 18 Akron Symphony Orchestra: Rhapsody in Blue
Sun 26 One Night in Memphis
Thu 30 Kings of Queen
FEBRUARY
Sat 1 Couples Therapy
Thu 6 Friends Parody
Sat 8 Akron Symphony Orchestra: Gospel Meets Symphony
Tue 11
Tuesday Musical: Czech National Philharmonic
Fri-Sun Beyond the Stars Dance 14-16 Competition
Wed 19 Cirque Zuma Zuma
Sat 22 Broadway in Akron: Hadestown
MARCH
Sat 1 Akron Symphony Orchestra: Mahler’s “Resurrection” Symphony
Sun 2 Wizard of Oz ICE
Tue 4
Tuesday Musical: Isidore String Quartet with Pianist Jeremy Denk
Fri-Sun Breakout Dance Competition 7-9
Wed 12 Jon Reep
Thu 13 DC Curry
Fri 14 Preacher Lawson
Sat 15 Irish Comedy Tour
Sun 16 Akron Symphony Orchestra: Youth Orchestra
Thu 20 Electric Avenue
Fri 21 Dear Amy
Tue-Wed Broadway in Akron: Come From 25-26 Away
Sat 29 Akron Symphony Orchestra: Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto & Beethoven’s First
New Exhibitions On View ExplorE, lEarn — Be InspIred!
Nov 26 - Mar 2
2024 | 2025
Night Visions: Nocturnes in American Art
What draws us to the darkness? Artists have long found their voice in the dark, and have used their creativity to guide them. We explore the surreal, nightlife, mythology, and beyond in a dreamy composition of art and stories shrouded in the mystery, menace, inspiration, and promise of the night.
Bohemian Chrysalis: Unveiling Cleveland’s Infamous Kokoon Klub
Avant-garde, bohemian, and outrageous ... with roots in the early 1900s, Cleveland’s Kokoon Klub artists stood for originality, self-expression, and freedom of thought. For 40+ years, the Kokoon Klub was a transformative force in Cleveland’s (and even the nation’s) cultural history and produced many celebrated artists of the Cleveland School. This unmasquing exhibition is in partnership with Cleveland History Center, Kent State University, Cleveland Public Library, and private collections featuring Klub fine art originals, posters, invitations, and more.
Arriving Somewhere, But Not Here: Kit Palencar
Explores the enigmatic realms of life and death and the mysteries that unite and distinguish these existences.
El Albañil: J. Leigh Garcia
Inspired by a grandfather’s tile setting in Mexico and Texas, an artist’s papermaking and printmaking celebrates his influence.
Images (top to bottom): Nite Station, c. 1985. Romare Bearden (American: 1911-1988). Watercolor on paper, 14 x 19 ½ in. Canton Museum of Art Collection. Number 2007.9. 11th Bal Masque Poster, 1924. Joseph Jicha (American: 1901-1960). Lithograph on paper. On loan from the Daniel Bush and Hilary Gent Collection. Bal Dynamique, 1929. Rolf Stoll (American: 1892-1978). Lithograph on paper. On loan from Private Collection.
Where Art Meets Life ...
Nite Station, c. 1985.
11th Bal Masque Poster, 1924.
Bal Dynamique, 1929.
THANK Y THANK YOU OU
TO ALL WHO SUPPORT THE VIBRANT CULTURAL AND ARTISTIC EXPERIENCES AT E.J. THOMAS PERFORMING ARTS HALL.*
INDIVIDUALS
Marcia Adair and Dick Edwards
Sarah and John Adams
Mark and Sandy Auburn
Anne Averbuck
Ed Backos
Andrew Bowen
Anonymous
Patricia Brown
Dominic Cardarelli
Tim and Karla Caton
Kathleen Coleman
William and Rebecca Considine
Deborah Cook
Thane and Faith Cook
William and Barbara Costigan
Thomas and Mary Lynn Crowley
Barbara Crucs
Thomas and Mary Dudek
James Durr and Ann Hunter Durr
Richard Elliott
Rachel Fink Byerly
Eva A. Gaspar
Miklos and Lorita Gaspar
Otto and Rita Gearhart
Melinda and Joshua Grove
David and Patricia Gynn
Robert and Mimie Helm
Jay Hershey
Sharon Hershey
Louise Kuhns Harvey
Paul Levy and Sylvia Chinn-Levy
David and Lynne Lieberth
Philip and Margaret Lloyd
Kenneth MacDonald and Marilyn Kay Bowman
Pamela McCarthy
Bradley and Valerie McKitrick
Nancy McKnight
Marc and Sharon Merklin
Donald and Juanita Morris
Jay and Teddi Musson
Deborah Neale
Arlene Nettling
Michelle Nissel
Robert and Margo Ohlson
Kyle Passmore
Michael and Julia Pasternak
Guy and Renee Pipitone
George Pope
Mark and Claire Purdy
Blake and Kimberly Rawson
Roger and Sally Read
Thomas and Connie Repko
Richard and Alita Rogers
Robin Rouse
Michael and Jennifer Saxon
Keli Schimelpfenig
Alan Shubert
Larry and Cyndee Snider
James and Paula Trenta
Janice Troutman
Linda Van Fossen
Thomas and Diane Vukovich
Thomas Waltermire
Bryan and Maria Williams
Virginia Wojno-Forney
Randall and Mary Jo Worthington
CORPORATE
Akron Civic Theatre
Akron Community Foundation
Employers Health
Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund
FirstEnergy Corp.
G. Stephens Incorporated
GAR Foundation
Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
The Lehner Family Foundation
LRMR Ventures
Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance
Steinway Piano Gallery/Steinway Hall - Akron, Inc.
Synthomer Foundation
The Edwin J. Thomas Foundation
Tuesday Musical
*Gifts received between1-1-23 and 6-30-24.
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The University of Akron Arts Academy offers a rich array of classes, workshops, exhibits, and performance opportunities in dance, music, and visual art to guide students on dynamic creative journeys.
Led by stellar UA faculty and nationally acclaimed guest artists, we provide accessible and affordable arts education for students K-12 through scholarships and no-fee payment plans. Register your student for an enriching experience in the arts today!
Join UA in nurturing the next generation of artists. Support our mission by making an outright gift or a future gift in your estate plans, leaving a legacy for future generations. Together, we can keep the arts a vital part of our community.
To enroll a student contact:
Sarah Bailey, Manager, Arts Preparatory Division n School of Dance, Theater, and Arts Administration
330-972-7949 or sbailey1@uakron.edu
To make a gift or discuss options for including the Arts Academy in your estate plans contact:
Kasey Willener
Director of Development
330-972-7520 or kdw53@uakron.edu
Kimberly Zebedis
Executive Director, Center for Gift & Estate Planning
