Curtain to Rise on Revitalized Town Hall
Those interested in making a contribution can do so online or contact Christie Cerio by email or at 937-433-0130 ext. 2835.
During a recent strategic plan needs assessment, patrons identified the theater as a top priority for RecPlex program development and facility improvement.
The deciding factor for moving forward with renovations was being awarded a Community Development Block Grant to cover the cost of replacing the theater’s seats, flooring, curtains and installing a chair lift and accessible seating. Matching funds for the grant were generously provided by the Centerville Washington Foundation and corporate sponsors: Rieck Services, Buck Run Commercial Doors and Sonshine Commercial Cleaning.
Washington Township kicked off the renovation with an extensive HVAC upgrade funded by the federal Cares Act. Many of the replaced components dated to the 1950’s and were installed to improve air quality and flow in the building. Town Hall is a unique and vibrant community asset in Washington Township. By restoring and preserving the building, theater attendees will experience a new level of comfort and convenience and the community will have more opportunities to enjoy this historic landmark. This view is reflected in the Township’s recent rebranding effort, in which the building’s historic and planned multi-use role was clarified as Washington Township Town Hall.
Of all the transformations, theatre manager Christie Cerio is happiest about the future installation of a chair lift and accessible seating. According to Cerio, “Individuals with mobility limitations have been unable to access the stage or fully participate in performances. and I am so excited that they will now be able to experience live theater without restrictions.”
For RecPlex director Mark Metzger, that excitement extends to expanding use of the theater to serve even more people. “Since 1991, Town Hall has produced shows for children performed by children. I foresee this Township landmark embarking on enrichment programs for all ages, more cultural events for the whole community and private rentals for special events.”
A fundraising campaign has been launched to cover much of the remaining cost of the renovation. Seat naming rights are available for any business, club or individual in doing their part to preserve this piece of local history. Those interested in making a contribution can do so online or contact Christie Cerio by email or at 937-433-0130 ext. 2835.
Spearheading the campaign is the Centerville Noon Optimist with a $20,000 donation toward the renovation. With this donation, the first two rows of seats in the auditorium will now be named in honor of the Centerville Noon Optimist Club as generations of young people continue to enjoy and benefit from the arts in our community for years to come. We are incredibly grateful for their generous donation and to have such a supportive community partner.
SERVING THE COMMMUNITY SINCE 1989
The historic Town Hall stage is home to high-quality, year-round
theatre opportunities for young people and their families. Theatre
productions are created for young audiences and performed by young
people and adults. The theatre also offers acting classes and performing
arts camps.
Town Hall Theatre occupies the historic Washington Township Hall, located at 27 North Main Street in downtown Centerville. The hall was built in 1908 for the purpose of holding town meetings, graduations, and Grange activities. Washington Township housed its government offices in the building until 1985.
In 1989, township officials decided to turn this historic landmark into a viable performing arts center. In 1991, after a series of public hearings, the All Children's Theatre was formed with the assistance of a $5000 MCRACD Special Projects Grant.
Between 1992-96, a facility renovation was initiated, resulting in a newly refurbished auditorium, lobby and rehearsal room, as well as the installation of an accessible ramp entrance and restrooms, a dance studio and scene shop.
We are grateful for the support of the Ohio Arts Council so we can continue providing quality arts experiences that strengthen our community. Visit www.oac.ohio.gov for more information about the Ohio Arts Council.
What We Do
INVOLVING FAMILIES
Town Hall Theatre is dedicated to inspiring personal growth in young people and creating shared performing arts experiences for families. By selecting professionally-trained artists committed to sharing their craft, seeking out fresh new plays that speak directly to young people, and continually offering a wide-range of performance opportunities, workshops, classes, and community outreach programming, the theatre encourages a nurturing, creative environment in which an arts dialogue between adults and children can begin.
Each year, the program reaches over 20,000 audience members and involves over 400 community volunteers in every facet of production. By combining professional directors, designers, and educators with community actors and crew, the theatre provides these volunteers with a professional and quality-driven atmosphere in which to develop as artists. The program receives the majority of its support from community tax dollars, ticket sales and class fees.
Employment
Town Hall Theatre is always looking for great people to join our staff -- from box office staff and drama instructors to production artists and technicians. To apply for current openings: Check Here