Brigadoon @ Porthouse Theatre

July 24-August 9, 2026

www.porthousetheatre.com.  

(330) 672-3884    

Roy Berko

BRIGADOON is the type of musical that is enjoyed by audience’s if it has a good performance.  They get just that with the stylized direction of Terri Kent, the inventive choreography of  Martin Céspedes and a generally talented cast.
 

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

Trust me...as you are exiting the Porthouse Theater venue following “Brigadoon” you will find yourself humming, singing and or whistling a number of songs from the show. It is simply that good and that good feeling will carry forward all the way home. With a little work on toning down the dialect we have a major hit on our hands.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi

The 2026 Porthouse production of Brigadoon (Book and Lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner; Music by Frederick Loewe), directed by Terri Kent, choreographed by Martín Céspedes, and with music direction by Jennifer Korecki, is an energetic, rhythmic, lyrical, and fantastic work about a fantasy world conjured in the minds of people in 1947, just after WWII, offering a tremendous sense of nostalgia as well as new meanings for Porthouse’s multigenerational audiences in 2026. It could be perceived as escapism, but it is a genuine reflection of our yearning for a peaceful and loving place to live. The bitter reality in the musical, however, is that even a dreamland like Brigadoon has conflicts, animosity, and jealousy that result in tragedy. Certainly, the creators, Lerner and Loewe, were aware of the new trend in American musicals, as popularized by Oklahoma! (1943) and Carousel (1945). 

To see a full review of this show, read Yuko's Review here

 

SIDE SHOW IN CONCERT

PORTHOUSE THEATER

July 7-18, 2026

 

Roy Berko

SIDE SHOW IN CONCERT, which is nicely staged and performed,  continues through July 18^th at Porthouse Theatre on the grounds of Blossom Center.  This is one of the few opportunities to see this seldomly produced script. 

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Grease @ Porthouse Theatre

GREASE

PORTHOUSE/KENT STATE

JUNE 12-27, 2026

Phone # and website of how to order tickets

Roy Berko

GREASE, Porthouse-style, is a nostalgic reminder of the era of mid-1900’s and left those of a certain-age satisfied and maybe those of the Information Age/Digital Age asking “what was the attitude, grease and angst” all about.  

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

Fans of Porthouse Theatre will flock to this production and will be hopelessly devoted. It is “the one that you want” to see. Outstanding vocal work on well known standards combined with great choreography make for an enjoyable evening of picnicking and theater. 

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

SCHOOL OF ROCK (Porthouse Theatre)

 

Roy Berko

Capsule judgment:  SCHOOL OF ROCK is a fun-filled show with a moral message. The Porthouse production was nicely done, in spite of some age-casting problems and a mid-production medical issue. The music rocked.  The cast entertained.  It’s the kind of show that audience’s love.  

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

If you are looking for a fun summer show this definitely fills the bill. Combine a heartfelt message with an off the wall teaching method and throw in some rock and roll and you have a great reason to picnic prior on the surrounding theater grounds.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Gwendolyn Kochur

Under the direction of Terri J. Kent, Porthouse Theatre’s production taps into the heart of the show. Porthouse recognizes that the real stars of “School of Rock” are the kids, and it gives talented, young, up-and-coming actors plenty of room to embrace the spotlight.

To see a full review of this show, read Gwendolyn Kochur's Review here.

Dr. Yuko Kkurahashi

Director Terri Kent embodies and amplifies the musical’s core energy, artistry, freedom, and collaboration, as well as memory through visual and auditory elements. Scenic designer Jonathon Taylor designed and built the panel that looks like the front of a multi-purpose portable CD player (with an opening for a cassette tape and a radio tuner scale). It looks rather retro, suggesting that this boombox metaphorically implies part of Dewey’s life growing up in the 1980s. Three openings on this panel accommodate different pieces of furniture (such as a bed and sofa) and the band platform (with the musical instruments) that slides out downstage.   

To see a full review of this show, read Yuko Kurahashi's post here. 

You're A Good Man Charlie Brown @ Porthouse Theatre

Through July 12, 2025

http://www.porthousetheatre.com

(330)672-3884

 

Roy Berko

YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN, in spite of its appearing to be an easy script to stage, is quite complex.  The Porthouse production is pleasant, but misses out on some of the creating the joy of childhood and the textured realities of the Peanuts gang.

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

While not my favorite production this summer, it is still a high energy performance that will bring back childhood memories of a simpler time. It is a show that awakens the inner child in everyone aged 8 to 80 and a nice excuse to pack a picnic basket of goodies to share with friends before the show. Bring the entire family...especially the youngsters.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Fiddler on the Roof @ Porthouse Theatre

Through August 11, 2025

http:www.porthousetheatre.com

(330) 672-3884

 

Roy Berko

Reviewing a preview performance of a show is a disservice to the director, choreographer, musicians and cast.  Usually this is the first chance to perform before and get used to an audience’s presence.  But, seeing a preview, I did, and I was pleased that Director Terri Kent and choreographer Martin Cespedes’s FIDDLER, was generally set and ready, only needing little polishing needed in vocal cadence, keying and waiting for laughs, and some musical blending.  

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Howard Gollop
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review here.

Sheri Gross
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Sheri Gross' review here.

Mark Horning

Porthouse Theatre has been putting on superb musical productions for over 50 years and each season seems to get better and better. Many patrons arrive hours before curtain to picnic and relax on the acres of spaciously treed green space. Those who have experienced Porthouse need no inducement but for those who have not made the drive it truly is worth it to see this Broadway gem.  

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Laura Kennelly
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Laura's posts at Cool Cleveland.

Kate Klotzbach
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Kate's posts here.

Gwendolyn Kochur
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Gwendolyn's posts here.

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Yuko's posts here.

Joey Morona
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Joey's posts here.

 

Annie @ Porthouse Theatre

Through August 4, 2024

http://www.porthousetheatre.com

(330) 929-4416 or (330) 672-3884

Roy Berko

There is no “Maybe” about it, since “You’re Never Fully Dressed Without Smile,” get down to Porthouse theatre, today, not “Tomorrow” to see the “Little Girls” [and the rest of cast] of ANNIE, do their thing!

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Chris Howey

This well-known musical is buoyed by Charles Strouse's catchy music and the witty lyrics by Martin Charnin, so it has a lot going for it from the jump. And in the Annie now at the Porthouse Theatre, Annie and everyone else hit their marks, turning in a thoroughly entertaining iteration of this popular (yes, damn near overdone) musical. 

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi

The Porthouse production of Annie, the last show of its 2024 season, is truly joyous, moving, and energetic. It gives hope to people living in a precarious, unstable, and grim world.  It is not necessarily because of the famous song “Tomorrow” or its happy ending that celebrates Annie’s bright future as an adopted daughter of Mr. Warbucks. Rather, it is attributed to how director Terri Kent put together different elements—historical, narrative, and aesthetic—using music and storytelling power to change people’s attitude toward challenges and hardships.

To see a full review of this show, read Yuko's posts here.

NUNSENSE

NUNSENSE, THE MUSICAL

PORTHOUSE THEATRE

JULY 5-13-2024

porthousetheatre.com or 330-672-3884

Roy Berko

Great theatre this is not, but the sold-out audience was totally delighted, and that is the goal of this type of show.  If farce is your thing, go, see, enjoy!  (BTW---it can get hot in the covered outdoor theatre so be sure to hydrate!)

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

This is silly theater just for the fun of it. It is a hilarious behind the habit look of what to many is a mysterious way of life as the nuns let their hair down (metaphorically speaking) and cut loose. All denominations welcome but tickets are going fast!

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Chris Howey

Well-Worn 'Nunsense' at Porthouse Theatre Doesn't Quite Hit the Heavens

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Dr. Yuko Kurahashi

An entertaining musical with active audience participation, the Porthouse production of Nunsense captivated the audience members; many nodded and laughed as the performers ricocheted Catholic jokes and puns. Behind Goggin’s comical, farcical, double-entendre, and lighted-hearted façade are black (and morbid) humor and subtle criticism of conservativeness and patriarchy in the Catholic Church (and beyond). A spoof is one of the best cures for people and society, and Nunsense—which has produced its six sequels—continues to serve that purpose.   

To see a full review of this show, read Yuko's posts here.

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR

PORTHOUSE THEATRE (Kent State University)

June 14-29, 2024

www.porthousetheatre.com or 330-929-4416 or 330-672-3884

Roy Berko

The staging, choreography and emotional values of the controversial show are well developed.  No matter your philosophical bent, this production will leave a positive understanding of the value of a well-done theatrical presentation!  Go see!

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

It is summer and time for a theater picnic at Porthouse. In spite of the heat, the steady breeze in the pavilion kept temps tolerable during the show and what an exciting show it is. Buy tickets, invite your friends and bring a special array of food to enjoy before the show. Porthouse is a summer theater experience not to be missed.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Chris Howey

Beg, Borrow or Steal to Get a Ticket to 'Jesus Christ Superstar' at Porthouse Theatre.

The cast, designers, director and the whole team are making miracles down at Blossom.

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

The Prom @ Porthouse Theatre

Through August 6, 2023

https://www.kent.edu/porthouse/prom 

(303) 672-3884

 

Roy Berko

As is the case with modern American musicals, THE PROM harks back to a Rodgers and Hammerstein-like social message of tolerance and the need to accept the beliefs and needs of others.  It is extremely relevant to today where the rights of sexual minorities, especially trans-individuals, is under both physical and political attack by right-wing bigots.  The Porthouse production, is well-conceived and brings to a conclusion a successful season.

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

With the combination of seasoned regional actors with students of the Kent State University Theater and Music Departments the result is a superlative show of exceptional quality. Arrive early with your picnic dinner, stroll the spacious grounds and settle in for a great entertainment experience. You will not want to miss this show!

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Chris Howey

This high-energy production directed with infectious spirit by Terri J. Kent is a mixture of low comedy, noble thoughts about LGBT tolerance and inclusion, and a lot of characters who've had their rough edges sanded off so they fit nice with each other. 

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

The Marvelous Wonderettes @ Porthouse Theatre

Through July 15, 2023

http://www.kent.edu/porthouse

(330) 672-3884

 

Roy Berko

If you love the teeny-bopper music of the 1950s and 60s, and don’t care about a story line (believe me this is not DEAR EVAN HANSEN or SPRING AWAKENING), then wander out to Porthouse, sit in the beautiful tent theatre in the lush lawn and trees, and see THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES.  Me?  I’m looking forward to THE PROM, the theatre’s next production. 

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

The 50s, while not perfect, were a simpler time that many reminisce about. Musically it was a period of seemingly simple tunes that were actually performed with astute complexity. This show captures that feel. Grab a picnic dinner, arrive early and enjoy the beautiful grounds prior to the show. Sincerly!    

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM

A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM

Porthouse Theatre

June 9-24, 2023

www.kent.edu or 330-672-3884

Roy Berko

There is “Comedy Tonight” at Blossom!  Maybe a little more abandonment by some in the cast, might have been desired, but it appeared the audience was having a great time and, that’s what this type of show should illicit…unabashed enjoyment!

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

Pack a basket full of goodies, break out the picnic gear and head out to Porthouse Theatre for this show. As always it is a shear delight of music, dancing and hilarity. Veni ad illudendum et affer totam familiam (Come for the fun of it and bring the entire family).

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Chris Howey

When it works, the comic invention provided by director Kent, choreographer/artistic collaborator Martín Céspedes, and certain actors gives the show its wings. Those are the moments when Funny Thing is a funny thing, indeed.

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

West Side Story @ Porthouse Theatre

Through August 14, 2022

https://www.kent.edu/porthouse

(330) 672-3884

 

Roy Berko

WEST SIDE STORY is near the top of my list of all-time great musicals. The creative choreography and solid character development of the Porthouse production did nothing to dissuade my love for the show.  Bravo!!!  I look forward to more shows produced by the Terri Kent and Martin Céspedes dynamic duo!

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Kerry Clawson

Passion, love, hate and tragedy leap onto the stage at Porthouse Theatre with its electrifying production of West Side Story.

... Director Terri Kent and artistic collaborator/choreographer Martin Cespedes have combined forces to create a swirling, constantly moving world of warring street gangs and star-crossed lovers caught amid hate, prejudice and violence in 1957 New York City. The 36 actors in their terrific cast throw themselves into this timeless musical ...

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To see a full review of this show, read Kerry Clawson's review here.

Sheri Gross

No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Sheri Gross' review here.

Mark Horning

Porthouse Theatre has always been more than the show. It is the gathering of old friends and family to break bread picnic style on the spacious grounds. It is also a chance to see the future stars of Broadway as they practice their craft for the first time. This remarkable production of “West Side Story” is not to be missed. Bring the clan and enjoy a superb evening of entertainment.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Chris Howey

Porthouse Theatre's Production of 'West Side Story' Is So Damn Good

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Little Shop Of Horror @ Porthouse Theatre

Through July 2, 2022

https://www.kent.edu/porthouse/little-shop-horrors

(330) 672-3884

 

Roy Berko

Porthouse’s LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS is well directed by Terri Kent, creatively choreographed by Martin Cespedes, and musically on-key by Jennifer Korecki and her musicians.  Audiences should enjoy themselves with the spirited production, but may return home and get rid of their house plants.

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Kerry Clawson

For a really campy treat, head to Porthouse Theatre in Cuyahoga Falls for the famously fun, comedy sci-fi musical "Little Shop of Horrors." 

The musical, which kicks of Porthouse Theatre's 54th season, features a tight cast of nine including Kent State University students, recent grads and other professionals. It's a colorful celebration of the horror musical as well as early rock, doo-wop and Motown, based on the 1960 film by Roger Corman and Charles Griffith.

To see a full review of this show, read Kerry Clawson's review here.

Sheri Gross

Scary-licious sci-fi meets paranormal pop/rock in Porthouse Theatre’s horror musical comedy, “”Little Shop of Horrors,” and while it may make you second guess purchasing a venus flytrap anytime soon, the show will definitely have you bopping in your seats. 

To see a full review of this show, read Sheri Gross' review here.

Mark Horning

Porthouse Theatre has a long established tradition of far more hits than misses and their current production proves the point. It is a pleasant way to spend an evening with a picnic supper on the spacious grounds followed by a well produced and entertaining musical. Come see what all the fuss is about. You will be glad you did.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Chris Howey

PLet's face it, if you haven't seen "Little Shop of Horrors" by now (or even actually been in it) since it's been a perennial favorite of school, college and community theater groups for several decades, then you really have to call someone to remove the rock you've been living under. Surprise, it's 2022 and we're still humming along to this musical version of the cult eponymous cult flick. It features the Mushnik florist shop employees—schlub Seymour and fetching Audrey—along with the carnivorous botanical monstrosity dubbed Audrey II by love-smitten Seymour.

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.
 

Altar Boyz @ Porthouse Theatre

Through August 15, 2021

(330) 672-3884 

https://www.kent.edu/porthouse

 

Roy Berko

ALTAR BOYZ has a weak script and score, but in the hands of the competent Kent/Cespedes/Swoboda combo, the Porthouse production is more than the material deserves.  It’s worth the drive to the grounds at Blossom to see how to make a near “something” from a near “nothing.”

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Kerry Clawson

It's a very silly musical with the slimmest of stories but, thanks to a talented cast, I enjoyed some laughs and am still humming some of the show's pop tunes from opening night Friday.

Yes, it's fluffy. And yes, it's cheesy — exactly what this satire of the popularity of both boy bands and Christian pop music set out to be when it premiered off-Broadway in 2005.

To see a full review of this show, read Kerry Clawson's review here. 

Mark Horning

On the plus side you have a lot of energy and some cute moments. On the down side there is the weak script, silly story lines and less than memorable songs. While the Sunday afternoon audience seemed enthusiastic in their applause some will see this show as not their cup of tea.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Chris Howey
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Laura Kennelly
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Laura's posts at Cool Cleveland.

Kate Klotzbach
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Kate's posts here.

 

BKLYN The Musical @ Porthouse Theatre

July 8 - 24, 2021

(330) 672-3884

https://www.kent.edu/porthouse

Roy Berko

BROOKLYN THE MUSICAL is not a show for everyone.  The story is convoluted and the music not memorable. In spite of these flaws, the Porthouse production is good enough to make the trip out to the beautiful setting a worthwhile ride.

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Kerry Clawson

"Brooklyn the Musical" is a fast-paced fairy tale, set on a street corner, that features powerful singing by a small but mighty-sounding cast at Porthouse Theatre.

To see a full review of this show, read Kerry Clawson's review here.

Mark Horning

While some will rave at this show as they did on opening night others will walk away a bit confused as to what all the fuss is about. If I would grade the show I would give it a strong B-. It is for the most part entertaining but not as good as it could be.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Chris Howey

This show doesn't wear its emotions on its sleeve, it wraps itself in drippy feelings like an oversized and excessively embroidered caftan.

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

"Quilters" @ Porthouse Theatre

June 17the through July 3, 2021

(330) 672-3884 https://www.kent.edu/porthouse

 

Roy Berko

QUILTERS, which could be dubbed Quilters 101, is not only a workshop of the role of material and sewing in the early days of this country, but a history lesson of the experiences of the women who helped settle the Midwest.  Don't expect big chorus numbers or show stoppers, or to come out humming the score.  This is just a pleasant slice of old-time life and makes for a nice way to spend a summer evening and the return of live theater.

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Kerry Clawson

"Quilters" is a beautiful little musical that celebrates the perseverance, love and relationships of pioneer women, now playing at Porthouse Theatre in Cuyahoga Falls.

The show's opening night, which played to a house about 80% full, was a joyous occasion marking the return of live theater to the summer venue after a pandemic hiatus last summer.

To see a full review of this show, read Kerry Clawson's review here.

Mark Horning

Live theater is finally back and none too soon. Porthouse has chosen a pertinent musical that we can all relate to after the many months of isolation that we experienced. It is an uplifting message of hope that we all need to hear right now.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Chris Howey

Even though the material shows some mismatched rows and wavy borders, there's plenty of comfort to be had in the stories of these hardy women.

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

 

THE MUSIC MAN @ PORTHOUSE THEATRE

Through  August 11, 2019

(330) 672-3884

Or http://www.porthousetheatre.com

Bob Abelman

Is there a better time than now to escape to Meredith Willson’s musical comedy safe-haven of River City, Iowa in 1912?  And is there a better place to do it than at the Porthouse amphitheater, summer home of the Equity actor-enhanced productions of Kent State University’s musical theater program?

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here or go to:  www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/bob_abelman/

Roy Berko

“The Music Man” is a staple of the American musical theatre genre.  It makes for a wonderful summer escape.  The Porthouse production is not without its flaws, but all in all, the end result is a pleasurable experience.

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Mark Horning

Gather the family for an old fashion picnic on the spacious grounds surrounding Porthouse Theatre followed by a nostalgic journey to simpler times. You will leave the performance humming one of the many grand tunes in this nearly perfect show.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.
 

TINTYPES @ PORTHOUSE THEATRE

Through July 20, 2019

(330) 672-3884

Or http://www.porthousetheatre.com

Roy Berko

“Tintypes” is a musical revue which reminds of the desires, values and worth of immigrants.  It reinforces the idea of why the less fortunate of the world are willing to risk their very lives in their desire to live the American dream. In its own way, it highlights the present battle over immigration. 

 

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

 Kerry Clawson

“Tintypes” is a fast-paced, peppy musical revue at Porthouse Theatre. It celebrates the rapid change that took place in America between the 1870s and 1920. ... This musical attempts to cover a lot of historical territory, including the rapid industrialization, factory workers’ plight, politics and entertainment of the era. But there’s no story with a solid through line to bring us through that time period, so audiences experience snapshots of that history almost solely through music.

To see a full review of this show, see https://www.ohio.com/topics/clawson.
 
Mark Horning

While the July 4^th holiday brings out a plethora of patriotic concerts and shows, Tintypes manages to strike a nice balance of contemporary and rousing martial music making for an extremely fine evening of family entertainment. Bring a picnic dinner to enjoy at the spacious grounds surrounding the theater and prepare to go home feeling good.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

MAN OF LA MANCHA @ Porthouse

Through June 29, 2019

(330) 672-3884
Or http://www.porthousetheatre.com

Bob Abelman

Porthouse’s gorgeous ‘Man of La Mancha’ inspires tilting at windmills.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's blog here or go to:  www.clevelandjewishnews.com/columnists/bob_abelman/

Roy Berko
 

Terri Kent’s soul of humanness and Martin Céspedes’s creativity and visual perception are stamped all over this captivating production.  It is a “Man of La Mancha” for the 2019s.   It’s a musical drama which has an important story to tell.  GO!  Experience theater at is finest!

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Kerry Clawson

At Porthouse Theatre, Fabio Polanco expertly takes on one of the most dramatic musical theater roles of all time — Miguel de Cervantes/Don Quixote in a swashbuckling, romantic and bittersweet performance of “Man of La Mancha.” Director Terri Kent’s cast of 21 is thoroughly invested in this world of the old nobleman gone mad who has dubbed himself the errant knight Don Quixote and set out with his squire, Sancho Panza (Timothy Culver).

To see a full review of this show, see https://www.ohio.com/topics/clawson.


Mark Horning

Any show that can make a weather weary audience forget about the rain outside with a two and a half hour theatrical vacation knows how to do it right. This updated version of a Broadway classic is must see summer theater. Grab a rain coat and make your way to Porthouse Theatre.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.