The theatre's interior features a recurring 'sunburst' motif integrated into the ceiling and proscenium arch.
The 21-foot-tall crystal chandelier in the lobby is comprised of over 100,000 individual crystals.
The Mighty Morton organ, originally installed in 1928, remains in its original location and is still used for performances.
During its early years as a movie palace, the theatre featured a full pit orchestra and live stage shows to accompany film screenings.
The venue avoided demolition in the late 1960s after being purchased by the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts with help from the Columbus Symphony.
It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977 due to its architectural significance as a premier example of 1920s atmospheric theatre design.
The Ohio Theatre is a National Historic Landmark in downtown Columbus, originally constructed in 1928 as a Loews movie palace. Designed by architect Thomas W. Lamb, the venue features a Spanish Baroque interior with elaborate gilded detailing and a massive crystal chandelier. It serves as the official state theatre of Ohio and the primary home for the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, BalletMet, and Broadway in Columbus series. The auditorium retains its original Mighty Morton theatre organ, one of the few remaining in a U.S. theatre. The building was saved from demolition in 1969 by a local citizens' committee, leading to its subsequent restoration. It currently operates under the management of the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (CAPA). The seating capacity is approximately 2,700, arranged across an orchestra level and two balconies.
The center of the grand lobby facing the sweeping staircase and the primary crystal chandelier.
Arrive early to walk through the grand lobby and view the historic architectural details before the doors to the main auditorium open.
Check the CAPA event calendar in advance, as the venue hosts a diverse range of touring Broadway shows and orchestral performances.
Use the restroom facilities located on the lower levels if the lobby queues are long during intermission.
Do not wait until the final five minutes before a show to arrive, as security screening and ticket scanning can create significant lobby congestion.
Business casual or dressy attire is standard for evening performances; silence mobile devices before entering the auditorium.
