CENTER STAGE BENEFIT WITH TONY AWARD WINNER, NICOLE SCHERZINGER
REDCOATS WRAPPED STATS FROM A SUCCESSFUL 2025
LAUNCHING NATIONAL TOURS
CLEVELAND – A TOP DESTINATION FOR ARTS ENTERTAINMENT AND MORE!
A MESSAGE FROM MICHELLE
As we enter the early months of 2026, all of us at Playhouse Square extend our gratitude for your support. You play an essential role in fulfilling our mission.
Your generosity opens doors for thousands of young people across our region. In 2025, Disney Musicals in Schools and the Dazzle Awards program celebrated a decade of impact. That means ten years of helping students spark their creativity, build confidence and discover skills for the future. Your commitment also fuels
innovative community programming. In its inaugural year, Dance for Parkinson’s offered individuals with neurological conditions an opportunity to create joy through movement and connection.
2025 marked a year of major achievements in the district: the opening of The Friar’s Table, The Bulkley Bar, The Brasserie and Encore all of which have quickly become gathering spaces for visitors and residents of the district. These businesses enrich the experience of every guest, while fueling economic vitality throughout Cleveland.
We are filled with optimism for what lies ahead! Your generosity allows us
to dream boldly expanding our reach, deepening our impact and ensuring that Playhouse Square remains a place where everyone can experience the magic of the performing arts.
Thank you for being a vital part of the Playhouse Square family.
With gratitude,
Michelle Ryan Stewart Chief of Community Engagement
DEVELOPMENT AND GUEST SERVICES STAFF
Glenn Anderson Donor Relations Coordinator 216-640-8418 glenn.anderson@playhousesquare.org
Jason Bogdany Development Research & Database Manager 216-640-8428 jason.bogdany@playhousesquare.org
Jason Brown Leadership Donor Engagement
Ticketing Coordinator 216-640-8419 jason.brown@playhousesquare.org
Leanne Dewyer Director of Development 216-640-8411 leanne.dewyer@playhousesquare.org
Jordon Garofalo Donor Relations Coordinator 216-640-8426 jordon.garofalo@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 216-640-8422
dani.ivancic@playhousesquare.org
Meg Kearns Volunteer Manager 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
Jay Palmer Guest Experience Assistant 216-640-8552
jay.palmer@playhousesquare.org
Aaron Phillips
Guest Services Manager 216-640-8553
aaron.phillips@playhousesquare.org
Katie Remark Partners Coordinator 216-640-8721
katie.remark@playhousesquare.org
Michelle Ryan Stewart Chief of Community 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
David Turner Senior Manager of Donor Relations 216-640-8432 david.turner@playhousesquare.org
Lindy Warren
Volunteer Administrative Coordinator 216-640-8810
lindy.warren@playhousesquare.org
Mary Winchester Director of Donor Engagement 216-640-8412 mary.winchester@playhousesquare.org
CENTER STAGE
CENTER STAGE BENEFIT SHINES IN SUPPORT OF ARTS & MINDS
In November, more than 700 guests attended the Center Stage Benefit celebration co-chaired by Amy Brady and Beth Mooney. The event raised essential funds for Arts & Minds, Playhouse Square’s initiative serving individuals and caregivers affected by neurological conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
Guests began the evening with a cocktail reception in the Mimi Ohio and KeyBank State Theatres and continued with dinner on the stage of the KeyBank State Theatre complete with views of hanging floral arrangements and live music. The highlight of the evening came as attendees moved to the
Connor Palace for an unforgettable performance by 2025 Tony Award winner Nicole Scherzinger. Guests celebrated after the performance with desserts and dancing in the KeyBank State Theatre lobby.
Thanks to the support of our sponsors; KeyBank, Cleveland Clinic and Beth Mooney, as well as our guests, funds raised by the Center Stage Benefit help ensure individuals living with neurological conditions in our community have access to the healing power of the performing arts.
LAUNCHING A NATIONAL TOUR: CLEVELAND TAKES CENTER STAGE
Broadway Launches Spotlight Playhouse Square
This season, Playhouse Square was the first stop for three major Broadway tours including THE NOTEBOOK, HELL’S KITCHEN and SPAMALOT
For weeks, more than 100 visiting artists, plus our skilled local crews transformed our theaters into rehearsal and production hubs. Sets were built, costumes fitted, technical cues perfected, with Cleveland as the creative home where these shows truly take shape.
Why Playhouse Square?
Producers choose Playhouse Square for our state-of-the-art
facilities, expert staff and welcoming district. Add Ohio’s theater tax credits to the equation and our audience of 37,000+ enthusiastic Season Ticket Holders, and it is clear why Cleveland is a top choice.
When a show launches here the world pays attention, looking to Cleveland first for reviews and reactions. While rehearsals here may only last a few weeks, planning a launch can take years. Senior Vice President of Programming David Greene and our Programming Department work closely with producers to bring these opportunities to Cleveland and assist them in their opening, ensuring that we remain a premier venue for touring productions.
REMARKABLE REDCOATS
RedCoat volunteers bring Playhouse Square to life. We thank each of you for making every day extraordinary.
CELEBRATING DECADES OF SERVICE
Audrey DeClement retires as a RedCoat on February 1 after an extraordinary 43 years of service. Since joining in 1982, Audrey has contributed more than 17,000 volunteer hours. We are deeply grateful for her decades of dedication.
2025 VOLUNTEER IMPACT
2,135 individuals logged volunteer hours
204,093 hours were contributed across shows, tours and administrative support
Average volunteer hours per individual averaged 109 hours!
6,019 guests experienced Playhouse Square through tours
Top volunteer-hour-contributing neighborhoods were Lakewood, Westlake and Cleveland
Scan here for a video about what it takes to launch a tour at Playhouse Square!
BROADWAY REIMAGINED WITH STEREOPHONIC
In January, approximately 130 Leadership Donors kicked off the new year in style at Broadway Reimagined at Cibreo Privato. The evening came alive as the stars of STEREOPHONIC delivered an unforgettable, intimate performance celebrating the music of the 1970s. Featuring songs by
The Doobie Brothers, Joni Mitchell, Elton John, and Joe Cocker. The performances captured the era’s unmistakable sound and spirit. As iconic melodies filled the room, donors enjoyed delicious food and drinks, great company, and a Broadway experience truly reimagined.
SWEETS, TREATS AND HOLIDAY CHEER
In December, donors enjoyed a family-friendly sweets and treats open house in the RJF Presidents’ Club. Families took in Playhouse Square’s holiday decorations and celebrated the season with milk, cookies, hot cocoa and more. Festive activities included holiday coloring pages, winter tattoos and a make-your-own ornament station.
STITCH VISITS PLAYHOUSE SQUARE! STITCH VISITS PLAYHOUSE SQUARE!
As part of the Disney Holiday Magic Tour, Stitch paid a visit to Playhouse Square with a little mischief and a whole lot of magic. Stitch learned a few dance steps from Cleveland Ballet after interrupting their rehearsal and then stopped by Halle School, one of our first-year participants in the Disney Musicals in Schools program, to host a dance and pizza party, deliver presents and give lots of hugs.
This year’s Disney Musicals in Schools program will conclude in March with the “Student Share Celebration” on the Mimi Ohio stage.
DISNEY MUSICAL IN SCHOOLS 2025-26 PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS
H Halle Elementary – The Jungle Book KIDS
H The Intergenerational School East –Winnie the Pooh KIDS
H Warner Girls’ Leadership Academy – Winnie the Pooh KIDS
H Dike School of the Arts – The Lion King KIDS
PARTNERS RING IN THE HOLIDAYS
Amidst the hustle and bustle of Jump Back Ball planning, Partners found time to gather and celebrate the holidays at their Yuletide Market event. The market, held in Hofbräuhaus Cleveland’s Festhalle, featured local artisans and vendors.
PARTNERS ALUMNI BEAT THE WINTER BLUES AT SPAMALOT
Partners Alumni joined in the fun of the Partner’s December Yuletide Market. The group came together for food, drinks and holiday shopping before attending MONTY PYTHON’S SPAMALOT in the Connor Palace.
UNLOCK THE MAGIC OF THE SECRET GARDEN
Jump Back Ball is on Saturday, February 28, but before dancing the night away in an enchanted garden, Partners have some work to do. Each year, volunteers create all the event decor at Shop Nights accounting for hundreds of hours of work.
The event is sure to be a night to remember, but not just for its stunning decor, food, drinks, activities and music. The night’s true magic is its fundraising for Playhouse Square’s education initiatives, including sensory friendly programming which expands access to the performing arts for those with sensory needs.
Event Co-Chairs: Kristen Swinton & Alicia Trumbull
Décor Co-Chairs: Justine Buzalka & Jacquie Davenport
Fundraising Co-Chairs: Caroline Gray & Melissa Jeffries
Partners Co-Chairs: Jeremiah Guappone & Maria O’Neill
BROADWAY BINGO LIVE LIGHTS UP THE ALLEN
In January, nearly 200 OUT members and their guests tried their hand at everyone’s favorite game of chance. Broadway Bingo LIVE! brought with it a special twist as a cast of Cleveland favorites performed the Bingo clues! The event took place in the Allen Theatre Lobby with an open bar, heavy appetizers, live performances and lots of friendly competition.
Interested? Visit playhousesquare.org/out.
Our newest establishment in the Playhouse Square district, Encore, is a cocktail-driven gathering place, built around intentional pairings, intimate design and the spirit of human connection. When you visit, you will be treated to a menu featuring refined
cocktails and creative bites. With marquee views, warm lighting, and late-night hours, Encore is designed for presence: a place where guests can slow down, connect and enjoy a thoughtfully curated experience in the heart of the district.
A Cocktail Bar
UPCOMING ANNOUNCEMENTS
2026-2027 KeyBank Broadway Series Announcement March 25
CHAIRMAN’S
• DINNER •
Honoring Broadway Producers Matthew Rego, Michael Rego, Hank Unger
May 5
OUT Mix & Mingle March 5 Legacy Circle Dinner June 23
• DINNER •
Honoring Terry Adelman
June 4
Donor Appreciation Week June 8-12
Donor Appreciation Night June 8
Advocate level donors and higher
Welcome
DONOR CIRCLE
LEGACY CIRCLE
We are grateful to our Legacy Circle donors who help secure the future of Playhouse Square.
Anonymous (4)
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
Marilyn J. Cotman‡
Dr. Robert H. & Patricia A. Crabtree
Dr. John R. and Mr. Frank Crawford-Spinelli
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‡
Jeanette Eustache
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 Gelb
David S. Goodman & Barbara Hawley
David & Robin Gunning
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
Bruce & Donna Jackson
Mr. James A. Nelson
Mr. Gary and Dr. Maita Jarkewicz
Margaret Judd
Mrs. Jonathan E. Ingersoll‡
Deborah Kavulich
Gilbert P. & Gail A. Kenehan
Jane Kirkham‡
Vivian Kist
Timothy & Judith Koeth
Susan L. Kohn‡
The Koppelman-Goldstein-Robbins Family
Barbara Ellen Kozel
Mina N. Kulber‡
Robert and Joanne Lane‡
Mr. & Mrs. Tom H. Lang
Maxine Goodman Levin‡
Cathy & John‡ Lewis
Joyce & Bill Litzler
Richard and Shirley Lutts
Mr. Julien L. McCall‡
James McKee
The Estate of David & Carole Mendelsohn
Kay Morabito
Wayne & Terri Mosley
Ken and Sharon Mountcastle
Deborah L. Neale
Mari Newell
Steve Norris & Emily Gonzales
Mr. & Mrs. Ernest J. Novak, Jr.
Steele Nowlin & Christine Jayjack
Jean & Walter Kalberer‡
Mark & Paula Nylander
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
Nancy‡ & Jeff Reinhart
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. Scott Soeder
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
Cynthia Renée Toman
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
Bill Winans
‡ Deceased
