The Renaissance Theatre’s mission is to educate, engage and inspire the community by creating memorable experiences.
“We live our mission every day by bringing entertainment we feel everyone can enjoy,” said Holly Williams, director of marketing.
The Renaissance Theatre has undergone many changes throughout the years. On January 19, 1928, the Ohio Theatre was opened, and was most often used as a movie theatre. After many decades, in the 1970s, the theatre began to harness a not-so-great reputation.
“On August 18, 1980, through the generosity of local philanthropists Fran and Warren Rupp, the Ohio Theatre was purchased from its out-of-town owners and presented to the nonprofit Renaissance Theatre, Inc,” said Williams.
“The first order of business, in addition to the massive clean-up efforts and the relighting of the chandelier, was to change the name of the old theatre,” said Williams, “And, because the revival represented a resurgence of interest in theatre arts, the name was changed to the Renaissance Theatre.”
Throughout the years, the Renaissance has endured many restorations and gained additions. Each change has benefited the theatre and customers in a positive way.
“In October 2018, a second theatre of the Renaissance was officially opened with the production of The Light in the Piazza. The venue is a black box theatre and is called Theatre 166 after its location, 166 Park Avenue West,” said Williams.
The Renaissance has been around for a long time, and for a reason.
“We provide the region with strong performing arts education, cultural enrichment and professional entertainment.”
“Each year our Education and Community Engagement programs reach over 16,000 students in Richland and surrounding counties, and we look forward to expanding the impact through continued and new partnerships,” said Williams.
Support The Renaissance Theatre of Performing Arts
“Our funds for the year-end annual campaign will be used to assist our programming and education throughout the season,” said Williams. “The Renaissance creates. It creates art that moves you.”
Consider donating to the Renaissance Theatre of Performing Arts this year for Richland Gives.
