More than 100 years ago, the beginnings of what we know today as Playhouse Square were just starting to take root. In the past century, there have been fires, concerns that the beloved theater district would close the curtains permanently, revitalization, and renovations.

Today, the district is thriving. It is the largest theater district in the country outside of New York City, and officials have painstakingly restored the intricate architectural details to their original glory.

As the anchors of Playhouse Square, four classic theaters each have their signature features. The 3,200-seat KeyBank State Theatre is the largest of the group, the Connor Palace is known for its fan-shaped marquee, while the Allen Theatre is recognized for round marquee, and Mimi Ohio Theatre —accessible only from the KeyBank State Theatre lobby or from the Bulkley Building lobby.

The theaters feature accents like original Carrara marble, black walnut, mahogany, and grand staircases.

Every architectural detail, from floor to ceiling, is stunning.

The Palace has five huge Czech chandeliers. The State has a 325-pound French urn and four acclaimed murals by rising painter James Daugherty, 

The State Theatre lobby and auditorium has a restored ceiling—painted in 14 different colors and used 6,000 sheets of metal leaf—plastering and new chandeliers.

A 2016 restoration of Ohio Theatre lobby showcases an ornate 150-foot long, hand painted ceiling was painstakingly researched to recreate the original paint colors, plaster ornamentals, columns and other décor to accurately replicate the original design. 

FreshWater’s managing photographer Bob Perkoski took an up-close view of these theaters’ details in this photo essay.