MANSFIELD — Just in time for the opening weekend of its production of Guys & Dolls, the Renaissance Performing Arts Association has completed its auditorium renovation, featuring new seating, restored flooring, expanded accessibility, and new gallery seating areas throughout Mansfield’s historic theatre.
The renovation is the centerpiece of the Renaissance’s Road to 100 initiative, a long-term effort focused on preserving the historic theatre, honoring its legacy, and preparing it for the future.
As construction concludes, audiences attending Guys & Dolls will be among the first to experience the transformed space.
“This opening weekend is everything we have been working toward,” said Chelsie Thompson, President & CEO of the Renaissance Performing Arts Association.
“The generosity of our donors, partners, and community champions made this renovation possible, and we are incredibly grateful. Because of their support, the Renaissance Theatre is ready to welcome audiences for generations to come.”
The theatre’s A Seat in Our Story dedication campaign also played an important role in the project, inviting individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to leave a lasting legacy through a personalized engraved seat plaque.
While the renovation is complete, seat dedications are still available, giving supporters the opportunity to become part of the Renaissance Theatre’s next chapter.
More than half of the funding needed for the project was secured by spring 2026 through support from the State of Ohio and early leadership investments, with continued community support helping complete the effort.
During a preview event for project supporters, Thompson recognized the contributions of Adena Corporation, J&B Acoustical, Spring Electric, and Matern Metal Works for their partnership and commitment to completing the renovation on schedule.
Guys & Dolls opens Aug. 1 and runs through Aug. 9, marking the first performances in the newly renovated auditorium. Tickets, performance information, and details about A Seat in Our Story are available at rentickets.org.