Cleveland State University Theatre and Dance Opens 2026-27 Season with Rent! at Playhouse Square

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The Cleveland State University (CSU) Department of Theatre and Dance enters its 15th season as a resident company of Playhouse Square with a bold lineup of productions. From a Tony Award-winning rock musical to a new take on an ancient Greek classic, the 2026–27 season showcases the breadth of talent and artistic vision within CSU Theatre and Dance, inviting audiences to experience compelling stories, innovative choreography and fresh perspectives on the stages of Playhouse Square. 

RENT! 

Oct. 29–Nov. 8, 2026 | Allen Theatre Mainstage 

Opening the season is a celebration of the 30th anniversary of the iconic musical, RENT! Set in New York City's vibrant East Village, this groundbreaking rock musical follows a group of young artists and musicians as they navigate love, loss, friendship and the pursuit of their dreams while facing an uncertain future. Featuring an iconic score and a message of resilience, community and living life to the fullest, RENT! remains as powerful and relevant today as it was when it first premiered in 1996.  

Last year’s Starmites team reunites for RENT!, featuring Director Sheffia Randall-Nickerson, Musical Director Maria DiDonato and Choreographer Errin Weaver. 

The Thursday, Nov. 5, performance will feature ASL interpreters signing in tandem with the live production. 

The Bacchae 

Feb. 25–March 7, 2027 | Outcalt Theatre 

February brings a new take on Euripides' timeless drama The Bacchae. A mysterious stranger arrives in Thebes, setting the stage for a clash between order and chaos, reason and desire, human authority and divine power. As King Pentheus challenges the god Dionysus and his growing influence, the city is swept into a thrilling and devastating struggle that blurs the line between civilization and instinct. Timeless and provocative, The Bacchae explores the consequences of denying the forces that make us human. The production is directed by Toby Vera Bercovici. 

Spring Dance Concert 

March 26–28, 2027 | Allen Theatre Mainstage 

Rounding out the season is the return of the CSU Spring Dance Concert, directed by Michele Ainza, CSU director of dance. Featuring the talented artists of the CSU Dance Company, this annual showcase comes to life through original choreography by students, faculty and guest artists. From bold movement to intimate storytelling, the concert is a vibrant exploration of creativity, collaboration and contemporary dance in Cleveland. Performances run Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. 

Tickets for all shows are on sale now and can be purchased at playhousesquare.org, by calling 216-241-6000 or in person at the State Theatre Ticket Office, 1519 Euclid Ave. Walk-up tickets are also available one hour before showtime at the Allen Theatre Complex. Visit csuohio.edu/theatredance for more details.