Live theater has one goal in mind – to transform you – through story, dialogue, design, costumes, and characters even more quirky than you
Normally, you’d have to binge-watch full seasons of your favorite series to get all that. Now, get the same thrill ride from one evening of live theater in the Gordon Square Arts Theater District.
This Detroit-Superior neighborhood sizzles with unique theater experiences, savory bistro meals and refreshing drinks, pre- or post-show.
With affordable ticket pricing and monthly “Pay What You Can” performances, dinner plans always fit right in.
Five theaters and one cinema lie within seven blocks, inviting you to come as you are and try everything. Want a surprise? How about a laugh? Maybe you’re ready to dig deeper. Families will even find creative venues for kids of all ages and attention spans.
The Unexpected
In 1981, James Levin founded Cleveland Public Theatre (CPT) to bring unconventional theater to Cleveland audiences. His first undertaking was to restore a 1911 vaudeville theater. By 1987, CPT’s approach shifted to emerging playwrights and performing artists, some of whom even went on to the national stage. Local ensembles also began experimenting in adjacent properties on the CPT campus.
Today, CPT claims both a national voice and following.
Maelstrom Collaborative Arts is another Gordon Square creative endeavor that experiments with live and virtual interactions between audiences and artists of various disciplines. Maelstrom experiences are created through fusion work, improvisation and one-weekend shows.
Family Fun
Talespinner Children’s Theatre combines acting, dance, song, tumbling, drums and puppetry to tell global folk tales to kids age 2-12 and their families. Talespinner plans sensory-friendly performances as part of their “Exceptional Inclusion” program, allowing differently-abled children a full theater experience by offering pre-show tours, noise cancelling headphones and ASL signing.
Founded in 1978, Near West Theatre delivers five professional-grade plays and musical productions each season, featuring an inclusive cast of 50 youth and young adults. Committed to accessibility, Near West Theatre offers free participation in its shows and training programs, along with a "Pay What You Can" pricing model, ensuring everyone can experience live theater's magic.
Variety Cravings
Not sure what your taste is? Blank Canvas Theater, a performance space within 78th Street Studios, offers a variety of productions including classics, new works, off-beat musicals, dramas and comedies.
The Capitol Theatre is the only theater in Gordon Square to offer big-screen storytelling done right. In 1921, it was the neighborhood movie house. The theater has since been revitalized into a comfortable, three-screen, all-digital cinema. Enjoy midnight screenings, classic film series and bargain nights in this restored gem.