The 2008 renovation removed the theater's original balcony to create a more intimate atmosphere, reducing capacity from 1,000 to approximately 550 seats.
The theater is named after Marcus Hanna, a prominent 19th-century Cleveland businessman and U.S. Senator.
It is one of five historic theaters located within the Playhouse Square district that were saved from demolition in the 1970s.
The venue's stage configuration is unique among Cleveland's historic theaters due to its 'thrust' design, where the stage extends into the audience.
The theater was originally designed by the architect Charles A. Platt.
The Hanna Theatre is a historic performing arts venue located in Cleveland's Playhouse Square, the largest performing arts center in the United States outside of New York City. Originally opened in 1921, the theater underwent a significant renovation in 2008 that transformed its interior from a traditional proscenium stage to a more intimate thrust stage configuration. The theater serves as the primary home for the Great Lakes Theater company. Its interior design features a distinctive Georgian-style architecture. The venue capacity was reduced during its 2008 modernization to ensure better sightlines and audience immersion. It is integrated into a wider district of restored historic theaters connected by a common lobby area. The theater retains many of its early 20th-century decorative elements while hosting contemporary Broadway tours and resident productions.
The historic marquee and the restored 1920s-style lobby entrance facing East 14th Street.
Check the Great Lakes Theater website for current resident company performance schedules.
Arrive early to explore the shared lobby area that links the Hanna to other historic theaters in the Playhouse Square complex.
Consider requesting seating in the middle rows to take full advantage of the unique thrust stage acoustics.
Do not mistake the Hanna for the larger proscenium theaters in the district; check your ticket carefully to ensure you are entering the correct venue.
Smart casual attire is standard for evening performances; respectful silence during shows is expected.
