Quick Facts
- 2,841 seats
- 1921 (restored 1988)
- 1615 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44115
- (216) 771-4444
- playhousesquare.org
- $10–$25 in nearby garages
- Broadway touring productions, special performances
- Playhouse Square — largest performing arts center outside NYC
About the Connor Palace
The Connor Palace is the crown jewel of Playhouse Square — the largest performing arts complex in the United States outside of New York City’s Lincoln Center. Opened in 1921 as the Palace Theatre and later renamed to honor philanthropists Sarah and Julianus Connor, this 2,841-seat theater features exuberant neo-baroque architecture with gilded plasterwork, crystal chandeliers, sweeping balconies, and timeless grandeur.
After falling into disrepair in the 1970s, the theater was saved through one of Cleveland’s greatest preservation success stories. Today it serves as the primary home of Broadway in Cleveland, bringing national tours of major productions such as Hamilton, The Lion King, Wicked, and Hadestown to Northeast Ohio. Exceptional acoustics and excellent sightlines from nearly every seat make it one of the finest theaters in the country for live stage performances.
Parking Guide
| Garage / Lot | Address | Approx. Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| E. 14th & Euclid Garage (Recommended) | 1375 Euclid Ave | $10–$18 | Half a block from the Palace. Most convenient option. |
| Prospect Garage | 2012 E. 9th St | $10–$15 | 3-min walk. Affordable and rarely fills. |
| 1717 E. 9th Garage | 1717 E. 9th St | $10–$20 | 5-min walk. Large capacity. |
| Playhouse Square Garage | 1617 E. 17th St | $12–$20 | Behind the theatres. Arrive early for major shows. |
| Street Parking | Euclid Ave & side streets | Free (evenings) | Meters on Euclid often free after 6pm. Check signs. |
Parking Pro Tips
For popular Broadway shows, arrive by 6:45pm for a 7:30pm curtain. The E. 14th & Euclid garage is almost always the best choice.
Public Transit Directions
HealthLine BRT
Stops directly in front of Playhouse Square at the E. 14th–Playhouse Square station. Most convenient option from downtown or University Circle.
Red Line
To Tower City/Public Square, then transfer to the HealthLine east (≈12 minutes). Or ride to East 34th–Campus and take HealthLine west.
Bus Routes
Multiple GCRTA routes serve Euclid Avenue. Check riderta.com.
Rideshare
Drop-off on Euclid Ave in front of the theatre. Post-show: walk half a block east before requesting pickup to avoid congestion.
Entry Information & What to Expect
Doors & Curtain
Doors open 45–60 minutes before curtain. Evening performances usually start at 7:30pm; matinees at 1:30pm or 2:00pm.
Late Seating
Latecomers are seated only at appropriate breaks (often intermission).
Bag Policy
No strict clear bag rule, but large backpacks are discouraged. Photography and recording are strictly prohibited during performances.
Dress Code
None required. Many guests dress up for opening nights and major shows, but smart casual is perfectly fine.
Food & Drink Highlights
- The Encore at Playhouse Square: Main bar/lobby area serving cocktails, wine, craft beer, and light snacks. Opens 90 minutes before showtime.
- In-Theatre Bars: Located in the main lobby and mezzanine. Pre-order drinks for intermission pickup.
- Concessions: Light snacks, candy, and non-alcoholic beverages available.
Nearby Restaurants & Bars
Cowell & Hubbard
0.5 miles · Euclid Ave
Elegant cocktail bar in a restored historic space. Perfect pre-theatre drinks.
Marble Room Steaks & Raw Bar
0.5 miles · Euclid Ave
Stunning 1890s bank setting with excellent steaks and raw bar.
Parallel Bar
0.1 miles · E. 14th & Euclid
Relaxed neighborhood spot right by the theatres. Great for casual pre/post-show meals.
Lola Bistro
0.6 miles · East 4th St
Michael Symon’s flagship — ideal for special nights.
Zocalo Mexican Grill
0.3 miles · Chester Ave
Casual, affordable Mexican with good margaritas.
EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute
2 miles · Shaker Square
Fine dining with an inspiring mission. Worth the short trip.
Pro Tips — What Locals Know
- Pre-order intermission drinks at the bar before the show starts.
- Arrive 45 minutes early for popular productions.
- The HealthLine BRT is often faster and less stressful than driving.
- Front mezzanine seats (rows AA–FF) frequently offer better views than rear orchestra.
- Season subscriptions save money and give early access to best seats.
- Side streets east of E. 14th sometimes have free evening parking.
- Coat check is available in the main lobby.
- Check for day-of rush tickets at the box office.
Accessible Seating & Services
Wheelchair-accessible seating in orchestra and mezzanine with companion seats. Infrared assistive listening devices, audio description, ASL-interpreted performances, elevators, and accessible restrooms available. Designated accessible parking in Playhouse Square Garage and street-level drop-off on Euclid Ave. Contact box office at (216) 771-4444 for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What shows play at the Connor Palace?
Home of Broadway in Cleveland touring productions including Hamilton, The Lion King, Wicked, and more.
What time do doors open?
45–60 minutes before curtain.
Is there a dress code?
No formal dress code.
Can I take photos during the show?
No — photography and recording are strictly prohibited.
Where is Will Call?
At the Playhouse Square box office (1501 Euclid Ave).
Best parking for Connor Palace?
E. 14th & Euclid Garage — half a block away.
Is there food inside?
Yes — The Encore bar and in-theatre stations. Pre-order intermission drinks.
Where to buy tickets?
Official: playhousesquare.org or (216) 771-4444.
Upcoming Events at Connor Palace
🎭 Upcoming Broadway shows and performances are listed below. Embed your Events Calendar widget here.
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