PlayhouseSquare is one of the largest theater complexes in the country, the construction of which was completed in the 1920s. Although it was not the first one to open - the Ohio and State theaters being the first two - the Palace Theatre soon gained fame for various reasons. The electrical sign above the building was once the world's largest, and the lobby housed an extensive art collection, but it was the vaudeville shows that drew crowds. This theater has also played host to artists like Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra and Fanny Brice.
Cleveland Public Theatre or CPT was the brainchild of James Levin an actor and director in New York city. Founded in 1981 it is today the leading stage for experimental theatre in Cleveland. From the beginning, CPT has supported artists, art organizations, and theatres. It has launched many companies including Wishhounds, Ground Zero and The Repertory Project. It has also developed projects like the Performance Art Festival, Festival of Alternative Theatre, American Indian Festival etc. Every week, artists from CPT go to Elyria to teach, share, and collaborate with former homeless women with the end result of bringing out an original performance. The CPT Bookstore acquired in 2007 is also used for rehearsals, events and small scale performances.
Karamu House is one of the oldest African-American theaters in the whole of the United States. It is located on the east of Cleveland and offers a rich foundation for a lifelong love for theater and performing arts. Professional tutors are appointed to impart knowledge and the basics of art, dance, music and cultural art forms. The fees are on a steeper side but it proves its worth going by the array of activities on offer. With a history that spans across more than a century, the Karamu House plays a significant part in preserving and depicting the Afro-American culture and its values.