Playhouse Square announced on April 6 that Akron Children’s has become the presenting sponsor of its Children’s Theater Series, pairing two of Northeast Ohio’s major institutions around shared goals of supporting children’s development through arts and health programming.

Craig Hassall, Playhouse Square’s President and CEO, called Akron Children’s a natural partner, saying the organization’s support will help “inspire curiosity, nurture imagination, and expand learning through performing arts.” Akron Children’s CEO Chris Gessner noted that “arts and humanities play a vital role in nurturing children’s development — helping them explore their creativity.” The sponsorship connects to Akron Children’s broader regional expansion: the health system operates two hospital campuses, eight regional health centers, and more than 50 care locations across northeastern Ohio, with a new pediatric primary care office in Cleveland’s Broadway Avenue neighborhood set to open in October 2026.

The Children’s Theater Series at Playhouse Square offers family-focused productions at venues along Cleveland’s Euclid Avenue theater district. Further information is available at playhousesquare.org.

Source: Playhouse Square