Cleveland’s Playhouse Square, as it frequently boasts, is the largest theater district in the U.S outside of New York City. And in recent years, it’s been sprucing up its landscape with signage and art — the arches the mark its entrances and — oy vey! — that goofy chandelier.
Now it’s moving on to the next step: creating dramatic new marquees for its theaters, which it will light up on September 28 along with a digital installation across all the district’s screens. The light-up will include performances by local artists and Los Angeles singer/songwriter/producer Andy Grammer (“Honey, I’m Good,” Keep Your Head Up”). Admission is free.
It’s been quite a journey for the theaters, built in the 1920s, which fell into disrepair and were close to meeting the wrecking ball in the 1970s. But the complex was saved due to the efforts of determined citizens such as Ray Shephardson and over the years all have been renovated. Great Lakes Theater now occupies the Ohio, with the Cleveland Play House taking over the Allen Theatre.
The new marquees add features not available back in the day including the music, video and lighting technology. They are already being installed and can be seen in a stroll down Euclid Avenue. Playhouse Square is also adding new video signage at other locations. Get more detailed information here.