Our History

Creating Cleveland’s Community Theatre: Our History

TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH THE ARTS

Near West Theatre’s journey began in 1978 with a single, powerful vision: to create an arts space that would ignite passion, foster creativity, and transform lives. What started as a summer youth theatre program under the name Near West Side Shared Ministry Youth Theatre blossomed into something much greater. Co-founded by Stephanie Morrison, Rev. George Hrbek, and Father Robert Scullin, the theater’s first production of Godspell featured a troupe of neighborhood youth performing in Saint Patrick’s Church Hall on Bridge Avenue in Ohio City. This was the beginning of a movement — one that would touch the hearts of generations to come.

In 1980, Robert Navis Jr. joined the program as Musical Director, bringing with him a vision of artistic excellence and mentorship. Together with Stephanie Morrison Hrbek, they led the organization through a period of growth and community engagement that lasted for over forty years. In 1982, the theater expanded its scope and launched an Advisory Board, securing a seed grant from The George Gund Foundation to help bring adults into the fold, turning Near West Theatre into a truly intergenerational organization.

As the organization continued to evolve, its impact grew. Near West Theatre was honored with the Governor’s Youth Recognition Award in 1985, marking the start of its broadening influence in the community. In 1988, the name officially changed to Near West Theatre, solidifying its identity as a beacon for the arts in Cleveland. In 1999, Near West Theatre became an independent 501(c)(3) organization, building a strong foundation for future growth.

AN ARTS COMMUNITY FOR THE WEST SIDE

In 2002, Near West Theatre became a founding member of the West Side Arts Consortium, alongside Cleveland Public Theatre, Detroit Shoreway Community Development Organization, Art House, and SPACES. Together, they united to leverage the arts as a catalyst for revitalization. Through this partnership, Near West Theatre helped secure a $250,000 grant from the State of Ohio’s Capital Projects Budget, the first of many successes in a journey of expansion and transformation.

In 2003, Near West Theatre was honored with the Governor’s Award for the Arts in Community Development and Participation, a testament to its commitment to enriching lives through the arts. A year later, visionary leader James Levin of Cleveland Public Theatre shared his dream of a Gordon Square Arts District — a collaboration between Cleveland Public Theatre, Detroit Shoreway Community Development Organization, and Near West Theatre. This vision would become the foundation for an arts-driven revitalization of the Detroit Shoreway neighborhood.

The Gordon Square Arts District (GSAD) Campaign launched with the support of Honorary Chairs Tom Sullivan, Dick Pogue, and Albert Ratner, who helped drive forward the mission to revitalize the neighborhood and transform it into a vibrant cultural hub. Over seven years, the campaign raised $30 million, $7.3 million of which was designated to build a permanent, accessible home for Near West Theatre in the heart of the district.

A NEW HOME A NEW ERA

On February 28, 2015, Near West Theatre opened the doors to its new, state-of-the-art, ADA-compliant, and LEED Gold-certified performance venue. With 24,465 square feet of space designed to inspire creativity and connection, this new home represents the culmination of years of vision, hard work, and community support. It is a place where stories are told, lives are transformed, and the community continues to grow, united by the power of the arts.

Near West Theatre's story is one of resilience, community, and unwavering belief in the transformative power of the arts. As it continues to grow and evolve, it remains dedicated to its mission of creating a space where everyone can experience the joy, healing, and connection that only the arts can provide.

FROM GRASSROOTS ORGANIZATION TO ANCHOR INSTITUTION

Over the past decade, Near West Theatre (NWT) has experienced transformative growth under the leadership of Executive Director Michael Obertacz and Artistic Director Trinidad Snider. NWT has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of the Gordon Square Arts District, enriching the Cleveland community through innovative programming, bold artistic expression, and inclusive cultural initiatives.

An early milestone in this journey was a partnership with the LGBTQ Community Center of Greater Cleveland which saw the expansion of Queer Prom, which has become a beloved annual event celebrating the queer community and fostering an environment of acceptance and joy. NWT also partnered with Veranda L’Ni to introduce Drag Story Hour, a magical experience that expands literacy for children and families while building community through creativity, fun, and inclusion.

The challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic were daunting, as live performance venues were forced to close their doors. Yet, NWT rose to the occasion, embracing the opportunity to connect with audiences virtually. When the world stopped gathering in person, NWT pivoted quickly to create engaging virtual performances, including the Voices of the Community series and Bring On Tomorrow, a vibrant online celebration that connected families and individuals to the arts in a new and meaningful way. One of the most remarkable achievements during this time was a teen production of Les Misérables School Edition, where the entire theatre space was transformed into a soundstage, utilizing the stage, main floor, and balcony to create a dynamic virtual experience that captivated viewers from all over.

As schools reopened and students returned to the classroom, NWT expanded its programming with in-school residencies in Cleveland schools to help youth address the emotional and social challenges brought on by the isolation of virtual schooling. These residencies served as an important tool for fostering social-emotional growth and development, supporting students as they navigated their post-pandemic lives.

Additionally, NWT has launched a Creative Aging Program in partnership with local organizations to ensure a continuum of artistic engagement for all ages, from young children to seniors. This program reflects NWT's commitment to building intergenerational connections through the arts and creating lasting cultural experiences for families across generations.

NWT’s West Clinton Historic Haunts, in partnership with the West Clinton Block Club, has been a resounding success since its debut in 2021. This annual event has brought the community together to celebrate the history, mystery, and spirit of the neighborhood, all while raising funds for NWT’s ongoing work in the community.

As NWT looks ahead, we are proud of the ways we've grown, adapted, and deepened our connection to the people of Cleveland. With the continued leadership of Michael Obertacz and Trinidad Snider, Near West Theatre remains committed to its mission of serving as a beacon of creativity, inclusion, and community engagement in the heart of the Gordon Square Arts District.