Winter 2025 News for Playhouse Square donors & volunteers
STEP INTO HISTORY
GREYHOUND BUS STATION
BEHIND THE SCENES DONORS MEET RICHARD PARKER
CULTIVATING HOPE NEUROLOGICAL PROGRAMMING
PRESIDENT’S DINNER HONORING JIM RATNER AND
by
As we usher in a new year, we want to express our gratitude to our donors and volunteers for your support of Playhouse Square.
Your contributions open new doors for thousands of young people through our educational initiatives. Programs like Disney Musicals in Schools and the Dazzle Awards nurture creativity, build confidence and ignite a lifelong passion for the arts. Your commitment to our mission also allows us to delve into new initiatives and reach new
communities with programs like Dance for Parkinson’s.
We are also excited about the continued revitalization of the Playhouse Square district. You are instrumental in shaping this vision. You allow us to create an even more vibrant and welcoming destination with editions like The Friars’ Table, The Bulkley Bar and The Brasserie as well as ongoing projects like the renovation of the Greyhound bus station and 1776 building. These enhancements not only enrich the theatergoing experience but also contribute to the economic vitality and cultural vibrancy of our community.
We are filled with optimism and
excitement for what we can achieve together as we turn the page to a new chapter! Your commitment to Playhouse Square allows us to set ambitious goals, reach new audiences and make an even greater impact on our community in the year ahead.
On behalf of Playhouse Square, thank you for being such an important part of the Playhouse Square family.
Looking forward to a wonderful year with you,
Michelle Ryan Stewart Senior Vice President of Engagement
Jason Bogdany Development Research & Database Manager 216-640-8428
jason.bogdany@playhousesquare.org
Jason Brown Donor Relations Coordinator 216-640-8422 jason.brown@playhousesquare.org
Meg Colwell
Director of Guest Services 216-640-8559 meg.colwell@playhousesquare.org
Steven Deliman
Donor Relations & Special Projects Coordinator 216-640-8426
steven.deliman@playhousesquare.org
Leanne Dewyer Director of Development 216-640-8411 leanne.dewyer@playhousesquare.org
Anthony DiBacco
Guest Services Manager 216-640-8553 anthony.dibacco@playhousesquare.org
Victoria Gray
Development & Education Fund Manager 216-640-8417
victoria.gray@playhousesquare.org
Cheryl Helden Foundations & Major Gifts Manager 216-640-8406
cheryl.helden@playhousesquare.org
Dani Ivancic Donor Relations Coordinator 216-640-8418
dani.ivancic@playhousesquare.org
Meg Kearns Volunteer Administrative Coordinator 216-640-8551 meg.kearns@playhousesquare.org
Sarah Martin Director of Front of House & Food & Beverage Operations 216-640-8535 sarah.martin@playhousesquare.org
Claudia Medlin
Gift Processing & Data Entry Coordinator 216-640-8409
claudia.medlin@playhousesquare.org
Katie Remark
Partners Coordinator 216-640-8721
katie.remark@playhousesquare.org
Michelle Ryan Stewart Senior Vice President of Engagement 216-640-8410 michelle.stewart@playhousesquare.org
Katherine Schoen Donor Communications Coordinator 216-640-8664 katherine.schoen@playhousesquare.org
Sarah Stengel Development Manager 216-640-8408 sarah.stengel@playhousesquare.org
Owen Towns Leadership Donor Engagement Coordinator 216-640-8419 owen.towns@playhousesquare.org
David Turner Senior Manager of Donor Relations 216-640-8432 david.turner@playhousesquare.org
Mary Winchester Director of Donor Engagement 216-640-8412 mary.winchester@playhousesquare.org
Playhouse Square recently hosted a special luncheon for leadership donors featuring a special guest from Life of Pi. The luncheon’s guest was none other than the breathtaking Richard Parker puppet, the Bengal tiger that plays a central role in the mesmerizing stage production.
Donors were treated to a behind-thescenes look at the intricate puppetry
and learned about the challenges of bringing this unique theatrical experience to life. Richard Parker even made a stunning walk-through of the crowd.
The luncheon was a small token of appreciation for the generosity of our donors who help us bring our productions to life.
Beth Mooney Retired Chairman & CEO KeyCorp
Playhouse Square is on a mission to inspire learning through the arts, and with PNC’s support, children and teens –from pre-K to high school – now have access to incredible opportunities.
Since 2004, PNC’s Grow Up Great initiative has been a game-changer for young learners, helping prepare children from birth to age 5 for success in school and life. Playhouse Square’s affiliated program, Our Kids in the Arts: A Great Early Start, engages pre-K students from lowincome families through local Step Forward programs. Now in its 17th year, Our Kids in the Arts has introduced more than 15,000 youngsters to children’s theater, participating in performances, workshops, and family events.
PNC also fuels the Dazzle Awards, which honors high school musical theater excellence. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the event, and it is going to be bigger than ever! On May 17, 2025, the star-studded ceremony at Playhouse Square will celebrate the region’s best musical theater students. PNC’s support, including a major capital gift in 2017, has elevated the awards, adding the glamorous PNC Dazzle Awards Red Carpet where students get the VIP treatment – complete with photo ops and cheering fans.
For this landmark 10th anniversary, PNC is taking the Dazzle Awards to dazzling new heights. The event will be a once-ina-lifetime spectacle, featuring students from 38 Northeast Ohio schools and setting the stage for an unforgettable celebration of musical theater talent. Support from PNC will cover all production and recording costs, ensuring that the night goes down in history.
“PNC’s longstanding support of the arts reflects our belief that engagement in the arts enriches lives and builds stronger, more vibrant communities,” said Pat Pastore, PNC regional president for Cleveland. “Our ongoing support of Our Kids and the Arts and the Dazzle Awards highlight not only two important arts education programs but recognizes the unlimited potential of our youngest learners and celebrates the many incredible student achievements of high school students through their participation in the performing arts.”
From tots to teens, PNC and Playhouse Square are opening doors to a world of learning, creativity and inspiration!
As a part of the mission of Playhouse Square, we continue to explore opportunities for creating more economic opportunity in the district. We are currently exploring longterm plans to expand and further activate the north side along Chester Avenue to provide connection to the Greyhound building and surrounding area. Possibilities for the building include the opportunities for multiple dining options and a flexible venue space for a variety of performances and events.
As always, while we bring new energy to downtown Cleveland, we also prioritize preserving the historical integrity of the city and its landmarks. We will work to preserve the architectural elements of the Greyhound building, while also honoring its history. In fact, recently a 1947 Greyhound bus arrived on Chester Avenue thanks to Robert Louis Brandon Edwards, a Ph.D. student at Columbia University. Together, we plan to create an installation, centering on the bus, that focuses on Greyhound as a way for African Americans to seek work and new opportunities in Northeast Ohio during the Great Migration.
We are excited to continue to update our donors and volunteers about developments throughout the district as we continue to expand!
Playhouse Square is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking new education initiative: Dance for Parkinson’s Disease. This program aims to enrich the lives of individuals living with Parkinson’s Disease, Alzheimer’s and dementia as well as their caregivers through the power of dance.
Participants enjoyed a dance class with an actor from A Beautiful Noise This event was also filled with
Playhouse Square staff who participated in the dance circle in the Connor Palace lobby. The positive energy was palpable, leaving many in the circle and the outside touched by the experience.
Playhouse Square Partners also enjoyed a sneak peek at our new neurological programming. Joan Meggitt, Neurological Programs Senior Manager, attended a recent Partners committee meeting where she demonstrated a dance class for young professionals in attendance.
The long-term vision is to establish weekly dance classes at Playhouse
Square. The program will provide physical and emotional benefits while integrating with existing Playhouse Square programming through special events and collaborations.
Joan believes the arts has the unique ability to connect us through shared experiences, ideas, and expressions. Dance for Parkinson’s brings this experience to the forefront! Research demonstrates the positive impact of dance on quality of life for individuals with neurological challenges, improving balance, gait, coordination and daily living skills.
“I love these classes/performances,” shares a Dance for Parkinson’s participant at Playhouse Square.
“I would never have thought that by having PD I could experience such happiness!”
Playhouse Square is not only a collection of theaters; it is a historical landmark. And at the heart of it are our RedCoats – a dedicated group of volunteers who hold the keys to Playhouse Square history.
A select group of passionate RedCoats volunteers undergo training to master the rich history of Playhouse Square, from its architectural marvels to the legendary performers who have graced its stages. With this knowledge and
enthusiasm, the select RedCoats serve as ambassadors and tour guides, sharing their expertise through public tours on the third Saturday of each month. For our donors, the RedCoats offer private tours beginning at the Gold Founder level.
Playhouse Square RedCoats are passionate advocates for the arts and dedicated members of our Playhouse Square community.
THANK YOU TO OUR REDCOAT TOUR GUIDES!
Brian A.
Sherry D.
Ralph E.
Don F.
Joe F.
Stephen F.
Antonette G.
Bob G.
Joan H.
Isabella H.
Jim J.
Lil J.
Carol L.
Heather L.
Jeannine M.
Joanne M.
Dave M.
Ron M.
Steven P.
Tom R.
Mike R.
Chuck S.
Brian S.
Chris S.
AJ S.
Nancy S.
Tim S.
Ross W.
in the Land, a night where elegance meets indulgence.
This year’s theme, Candy in the Land, is sure to be a treat. But there is much work to be done before partygoers can enjoy a sweet escape with endless cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres and live music. Did you know Playhouse Square Partners plan and build all their own décor at nine Shop Nights? February is shaping up to be a busy month for the young professionals who plan to build a stunning candy-scape for the event.
benefit Playhouse Square’s education
Schools, the Dazzle Awards, Classroom Connections Workshops and more.
Sound sweet? Join us to dance the night away while supporting a meaningful cause.
Learn more and purchase tickets before it sells out at playhousesquare.org/jumpbackball.
Zoë Ingram and Ali Swift
Jump Back Ball Co-Chairs: Megan McNulty and Sarah Shaw
Décor Co-Chairs: Nicole DeChant and Alicia Trumbull
Fundraising Co-Chairs: Josh Berggrun and Liz Safier
SCAN TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS!
It is that time of year again! Disney Musicals in Schools, presented by Dee & Jimmy Haslam, provides schools with a 19-week theater residency provided by Playhouse Square’s teaching artists. The program concludes on March 10 with “Student Share Celebration” on the Mimi Ohio stage. The event allows students to showcase all the creativity and confidence they have built through
the program. We cannot wait to share pictures of the students on stage and the continued stories of how this program is inspiring young artists.
Disney Musical in Schools 2024-25 Participating Schools
Clara E. Westropp School of the Arts (Cleveland)
– Disney 101 Dalmatians KIDS
Constellation Schools: Westside Community School of the Arts (Cleveland)
– Disney Frozen KIDS
Lomond Elementary School (Shaker Heights)
– Disney The Lion King KIDS
Marion-Sterling School (Cleveland)
– Disney Aladdin KIDS
Some Like it Hot brought outstanding dance numbers to the Connor Palace stage, but the show did not stop there.
Forty Dazzle Awards students participated in a Dance Master Class with Devon Hadsell. Devon is an
ensemble member and understudy for Minnie in the production of Some Like it Hot. In addition to a dance class, 15 students attended a Technical Theater Master Class focused on lighting and sound taught by Playhouse Square’s own Liam Roth and Kevin Austin. Liam,
Technical Production Manager, and Kevin, Head Electrician in the KeyBank State Theatre, shared their expertise with the group of students interested in pursuing careers on the technical side of the performing arts.
We are thrilled to announce that remarkable Dazzle Awards alum, Steven Huynh, is currently making his Broadway debut as the standby for Darren Criss in the new musical Maybe Happy Ending
Steven is no stranger to the stage, having made his debut right here on our stages in 2016 when he was a student at Marion L. Steele High School (Amherst, Ohio). As part of the inaugural Dazzle Awards, Huynh was
one of five Best Actor nominees!
Huynh credits his Dazzle Awards experience as the point when he realized just how much he enjoyed being on stage as an actor and allowed him to think about the possibility of a career in the field. We are so proud to see him shining brightly and following his dreams!
The talented young artists who participate in the Dazzle Awards have bright futures just like Steven. Our program, from masterclasses through the awards ceremony, equip, nurture and
inspire the next generation of theater professionals. Their success stories demonstrate the transformative impact of the program on aspiring young artists in our community!
Leading Ladies enjoyed their annual Holiday Reception this December! Everyone in attendance celebrated in the beautifully decorated Connor Palace lobby. The ladies socialized and sampled special treats catered by Driftwood Catering.
As the seasons change and the weather warms up, stay tuned for news about the Leading Ladies spring event!
Interested in joining us? Visit playhousesquare.org/leadingladies or contact Leanne Dewyer at leanne.dewyer@playhousesquare.org or call 216-640-8411.
SAVE THE DATE! The Leading Ladies Luncheon will be on Tuesday, March 11. More details to come.
Welcome and thank you to our new Partners members from August 28, 2024 –January 12, 2025
Liana Dennison
Jackie DiFrangia
Kaz Himes
Justice Hubbard
Matthew Hyland
Barbara Kantartzis
Matt Krysiak
Aaron Lichterman
Corrina Lynch
Tiffany Onger
Rachel Prior
Kristin Salaky
Meredith Wemhoff
Partners Alumni joined together for a festive evening in early December to catch up, enjoy food and drinks and tour the decorated theaters at Playhouse Square!
The Brasserie and The Bulkley Bar are now open for guests who visit our district. Located inside the Bulkley Building at 1501 Euclid Avenue. Playhouse Square transformed two existing spaces to create these new venues with designs celebrating the ambience of the
The Friars’ Table, located at 1305 Euclid Avenue, is a collaboration between Brandon Chrostowski, the visionary behind EDWINS, and Cleveland Capuchin Ministries, led in this endeavor by Fr. Philip Bernier, OFM Cap. The Friars’ Table features a seasonal menu inspired by monastic cuisine. The cozy new family-friendly establishment is now open for service. Stop by to enjoy a meal before your show! Learn more at thefriarstable.org.
historic building. The Brasserie features homemade pastries, sandwiches, espresso coffee and unique desserts, while The Bulkley Bar offers specialty cocktails, wines and other pre- and post-theater drinks.
Learn more about additions to the Playhouse Square district at playhousesquare.org/district.
New Chapter, New Legacy
Write the next chapter with Playhouse Square. As we begin a new year, you can help us write a new chapter with your legacy! Many donors create a gift in their will or trust to support the future of Playhouse Square.
As a free resource to you, we have partnered with FreeWill to make the process of creating a will and designating a legacy gift as simple as possible. Visit freewill.com/playhousesquare to create your will or simply let us know if Playhouse Square is part of your plan at freewill.com/record/playhousesquare.
We are grateful to our Legacy Circle donors who help secure the future of Playhouse Square.
Terry & Sheldon Adelman
Joanie & Tom Adler
Bruce & Judie Amsel
John & Diane Andrica
Chad & Tracie Bailey
Charles M. Bailin, M.D.
Fred G. & Mary W. Behm
Marcia Blum and Dale Perram
Debbi Boncha
Amy & Stan Brady
Gary Burlin
Anna Bussian
Ed & Judi Campobenedetto
Robert & Lorraine Campobenedetto
Paul & Sherry Carleton
Harry & Marjorie‡ Carlson
Patricia & John Chapman
Mr. & Mrs. Michael Charnas
Christopher & Sara Connor
Dr. Robert H. & Patricia A. Crabtree
Dr. John R. and Mr. Frank CrawfordSpinelli
Audrey P. DeClement
Mr. & Mrs. Edward‡ H. deConingh, Jr.
Mary Kay DeGrandis & Edward Donnelly
Anthony DiBacco
Craig & Lynn Donnan
Susan‡ & Robert Droman
Henry F. Eaton‡
Esther L. & Alfred M. Eich‡
Mr. & Mrs. Oliver F. Emerson‡
Art & Maryann Falco
Irving B.‡ & Gloria G. Fine
Eleanor J. Fitzgerald‡
Emily A. Fleisher
Edward L. Franke‡
Richard & Lynda Freedman
Chris Anna Fullerton
Barbara & Peter‡ Galvin
Patricia A. Gaul
Joan Gleb
David S. Goodman & Barbara Hawley
Mr. & Mrs. Peter Guren
Virginia Harrison Hamann‡
Raymond G. Hamlin, Jr.
Ms. Kathleen E. Hancock
Marsha Ann Harrison
Mary Jane Hartwell‡
Lawrence & Linda Hatch
Mr. Forrest D. Hayes‡
Sally & Oliver Henkel
Valerie Hughes
Barry & Brenda Hummel
Mrs. Jonathan E. Ingersoll‡
Bruce & Donna Jackson
Mr. Gary and Dr. Maita Jarkewicz
Margaret Judd
Jeanne & Walter Kalberer‡
Gilbert P. & Gail A. Kenehan
Jane Kirkham‡
Vivian Kist
Timothy & Judith Koeth
Susan L. Kohn‡
Noreen Koppelman-Goldstein
Barbara Ellen Kozel
Mina N. Kulber‡
Robert and Joanne Lane‡
Mr. & Mrs. Tom H. Lang
Jonathan A. Leebow
Maxine Goodman Levin‡
Cathy & John‡ Lewis
Joyce & Bill Litzler
Mr. Julien L. McCall‡
The Estate of David & Carole
Mendelsohn
Kay Morabito
Wayne & Terri Mosley
Ken and Sharon Mountcastle
Deborah L. Neale
Mr. James A. Nelson
Steve Norris & Emily Gonzales
Mr. & Mrs. Ernest J. Novak, Jr.
Steele Nowlin & Christine Jayjack
Kevin J. O’Brien
Michael Olah & Kelly Masarik
Jane & Jon Outcalt
Jim & Kathy Pender
Florence K.Z. Pollack
Clark N. Pope & Sarah M. Planchon Pope
Nanci & Ron Pottorff‡
Victor & Linda Prosak
Chris & Emily Rees
Don & Joanne‡ Reiss
Albert Rettig‡
Linda Franklin Rhodes
Amy & Ken Rogat
Bob & Pat Roller
Walt & Carol Rosebrough
Mark D. Ross
William & Diann Rucki
Paul & Lori Rupert
Luci Schey
Bob & Betty Schmiermund
Rick & Cheryl Schmitz
William & Nancy Seelbach
The Estate of Jo Hershey Seldon‡
Alan & Debbie Shubert
Betty W. Sinclair‡
Karen Skinder
Mr. & Mrs. Stephen‡ H. Spaeth
Douglas & Stephenie Spiker
Lois & Thomas Stauffer‡
Michelle & Mike Stewart
Arthur J. & Nancy L. Stokes
K.K. & Joe Sullivan
Robert J. Swadey‡
Gary & Nancy Temple
Kurt & Christine‡ Treu
Gina M. Vernaci & William D. Hilyard
Leila & Tony Vespoli
Maryanne & Tom Wagner
Dan & Molly Walsh
Neil Weinberger
Frederick E. & Ruthanne‡ Weinmann
Denise G. & Norman E. Wells, Jr.
Jeff & Danielle Wild
William Winans
‡ deceased
plan? Contact Leanne Dewyer at 216-640-8411 or email leanne.dewyer@playhousesquare.org
On Saturday, October 5, we welcomed 500 guests to Playhouse Square’s annual Center Stage Benefit, presented by Kulas Foundation. It was an unforgettable evening to support our new neurological programs which use music and dance to enrich the lives of individuals living with neurological conditions.
Guests were greeted with live music and swing dancing as they made their way to a cocktail reception in the Mimi Ohio Theatre. The reception was followed by an elegant seated dinner in the Allen Theatre. After dinner, guests made their way to a stunning performance of Strictly Gershwin, featuring music and dance set to the timeless songs of George and Ira Gershwin. The night concluded with a dessert and dancing reception, with live entertainment from Follow the Sun.
Net proceeds from the Center Stage Benefit exceeded $350,000 to help fund our new neurological initiatives. Support from the benefit has already helped bring these initiatives to life, allowing us to reach more individuals and make a lasting impact on those with neurological conditions.
In December, Jim Ratner received the Falco Award for his leadership, perseverance and dedication to Playhouse Square.
After joining the Playhouse Square Board of Trustees in 1996, Jim went on on to serve on the Nominating & Governance Committee, the Executive Committee and the Real Estate Development Committee.
He became chair of the board in 2016 and served until the end of June 2019. During this time, Playhouse Square set new attendance records including the number of season ticket holders for the KeyBank Broadway Series – 46,000 – and the number of annual visitors –more than 1.2 million.
Jim’s leadership allowed us to grow our endowment, care for our historic theaters and continue to be a leader in
the performing arts, arts education and downtown development.
With Jim’s guidance, the dream of seeing an apartment tower rise across from the Euclid Avenue theaters came true when Playhouse Square completed the largest residential project undertaken in downtown Cleveland in 40 years – The Lumen.
Jim’s passion for Playhouse Square’s arts education programs is equally notable. He has been a great supporter of the Disney Musicals in Schools and Dazzle Awards programs in particular.
Playhouse Square Foundation
1501 Euclid Avenue Suite 200 Cleveland, OH 44115-2108
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