This winter will bring some old-time classics and perhaps some new favorites in theater. Both the Cleveland Public Theatre and Playhouse Square will feature shows that will surely touch the hearts of many. From plays on real life issues from drug abuse to Christmas, there will be something for all to enjoy.

Cleveland Public Theatre

6415 Detroit Ave.
Cleveland, Ohio 44102
(216) 631-2727
cptonline.org

The Public Theatre was established in 1981 by James Levin, but it was not until 1994 with campaign collections that raised more than $60,000 that the Cleveland branch was founded. Today, the Cleveland Public Theatre provides educational classes to the urban youth and homeless men and women, serving roughly 500 people. Below are some previews of shows to look out for this winter.

(credit: cptonline.org)

Y-Haven Theatre Project

Nov. 8 to 11

The Cleveland Public Theatre will collaborate with Y-haven this year to host homeless men battling drug and alcohol addiction to create a play based on their experiences. Tickets for this performance are free.

The Secret Social

Dec. 6 to 23

Chosen artists from Conni’s Avant Garde Restaurant will band together with the Cleveland Public Theatre for this event, promising a “celebration of theatricality.”This particular event allows the audience to be a part of the show. Members of the audience may come and dance or just sit back, relax and watch the show.

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Playhouse Square

1501 Euclid Ave. #200
Cleveland, Ohio 44115
(216) 771-4444
www.playhousesquare.org

The Playhouse Square is the second largest performing arts center in the country. It boasts nine performance spaces and five venues:  Ohio, Palace, State, Allen and Hanna. The Playhouse draws more than a million people every year. Don’t be fooled by its success, it remains a not-for-profit organization. These are the shows to look out for.

(credit: playhousesquare.org)

Beauty and the Beast

Nov. 6 to 18

This Disney classic will most certainly be a hit for the whole family. Based on the story of Belle and the beast, who incidentally is a prince trapped under a spell that can only be broken if he can learn to love and be loved in returned. This play is based on an Academy Award-winning musical film loved by more than 35 million people globally.

(credit: playhousesquare.org)

A Joyous Christmas Celebration

Nov. 25

This play promises elements to enchant all holiday lovers. Complete with a chorus and orchestra, the performers here will play favorite Hanukah and Christmas songs for the perfect holiday night. Don’t miss out on adoptable puppies and kittens from a local shelter right here for the picking. Audience members are asked to bring in toys to donate to the Cleveland City Mission Toy Drive.

(credit: playhousesquare.org)

A Christmas Carol

Nov. 30 to Dec. 23

Enjoy the classic Charles Dickens tale of the original Christmas Grinch. It is not Scrooge receives a series of visitors that he sees the error of his ways. Through ghosts of his present, past and future, Scrooge learns to find joy in the holiday season in a play the whole family will talk about for years to come.

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