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 SMG and the Akron Civic Theatre, which his owned by Board of Trustees of the Community Hall Foundation, have reached an affiliation agreement that includes management, marketing and responsibility for all operations of the venue. The move is expected to expand programming at the venue, increase the number and quality of events, maximize revenue opportunities, and expand upon its already significant economic and cultural impact on the community.

“The Civic is an amazing place and a cultural icon in our community, but programming is what brings people downtown and drives business for the local hospitality industry,”  said Ralph Palmisano, Immediate Past President, Board of Trustees of the Community Hall Foundation.

One of the nation’s ornate “Movie Palaces” constructed during the Jazz Age of the early 20th Cenutry,  the 2,580-seat Akron Civic Theater was built in 1929 by Marcus Loew and designed by famed theater architect, John Eberson. The interior structure was fashioned after a Moorish castle featuring Mediterranean decor, including medieval carvings, authentic European antiques and Italian alabaster sculptures. In June 2001, the Akron Civic Theatre underwent the most comprehensive restoration and expansion project in its history, whereby the theater was brought up to modern performance and patron standards.  During the 2009-2010 season, the theater attracted an estimated 110,600 audience members.  

“We’re already hosting more than 100 events a year and the agreement with SMG will help us to increase both the number and quality of attractions,” added Palmisano.

“The Akron Civic Theatre’s seating capacity is perfect for many of today’s touring attractions and it is ideally situated in terms of artist routing.” said Wes Westley, President and CEO of SMG.  “We are looking forward to helping the theater reach the next level and to play a role in the ongoing re-vitalization of downtown Akron.”

The Akron Civic Theatre is the first theater in Ohio to join SMG. SMG is involved in the management and operation of more than 220 public assembly facilities worldwide, including some 45 theaters.  

 The theater’s work with community-based arts and non-arts organizations, its partnership with the City of Akron’s Lock 3 Park, and its own programming, will remain at the foundation of the annual schedule of events.  Current staff, including Executive Director Howard Parr, will remain in place.  
 
“The Civic is proud of its impact on our community and of the high level of programming and efficiency of operations currently provided.” said Mark Watkins, Current President, Board of Trustees of the Community Hall Foundation. “I know I speak for the theater’s loyal and dedicated staff and all of the Board members when I say that we are thrilled with this affiliation and the potential it brings.”