Very good quality productions that feature a mix of professional actors, students, and others. Productions are of excellent quality in a very intimate theater that is under cover. Bring a picnic and enjoy the very reasoably priced shows on a summer night.

Porthouse theatre is a great way to experience a musical. The performers are generally (not always) Kent State students so tickets are cheaper than Playhouse, but the talent is always phenomenal. I love the outdoor theatre, as well as the picnic benches nearby. Every time I see a musical there, it is always a fun, relaxing night out!

Porthouse Theatre is now celebrating its 50th year. We've been coming here for several years and it's a fun summer destination. TA currently has Porthouse in Cleveland, but it's actually on the grounds of the Blossom Music Center about 25 miles away in Cuyahoga Falls. Although a distance from downtown, like Blossom it can be reached from just about anywhere in northeast Ohio as it sits between Route 8 and 271 just south of the turnpike. Portholes is like a smaller version of Blossom. It's a theater pavilion, but only holds about 350 people and there is no lawn seating, so it is more intimate. They put on three shows a year during the summer under the auspices of the Kent State University School of Theater and Dance. Many of the performers are students, but the lead roles are generally filled by professional performers, many of whom are also faculty members. This year it's 9 to 5, Ain't Misbehavin', and Newsies. In the past they have had everything from traditional Broadway shows (Music Man, Annie Get Your Gun, Anything Goes) to musical revue-type productions, to more modern musicals (Hairspray). The productions are always upbeat and enthusiastic. The cast and staff plainly love Teri Kent, the producing artistic director, who loves to interact with the audience herself. Porthouse tends towards musical productions and musicals, and mostly comedies, so it's good, light summer fare. There is a great deal of enthusiasm both on stage and among the staff. There are picnic grounds around the theater with a pavilion (you can reserve a spot online for free if you're a subscriber, or for something like $2 if you're not), and there are another 25 or so picnic tables all around. It's not uncommon to see a group with a bottle of wine, a picnic table, and friends. It took us about 45 minutes from Cleveland's far east suburbs, a little longer than it would take to go downtown, but the ride is more pleasant and parking is free. While the theater is generally full, we've always been surprised that it is not better known. It's a great experience in summer and something easy for the whole family to enjoy.

Went to see Sister Act in Aug 2016 and it was great. I loved the outdoor atmosphere of this stage. Actors are great and so is the setting! Can't wait to go see Newsies Summer 2017!!! parking could be better.

We have season tickets for Porthouse. 3 plays a summer. We take a picnic dinner and eat there before each play. We love it!