Allen Theatre Guide – The Cleveland Leader
Quick Facts
- ~500 seats
- 1921 (renovated 2011–2012)
- 1407 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44115
- (216) 771-4444
- playhousesquare.org
- $10–$20 in nearby garages
- Cleveland Play House (America’s oldest regional theatre)
About the Allen Theatre
The Allen Theatre is the permanent home of Cleveland Play House, founded in 1915 — America’s oldest professional regional theatre. Originally opened in 1921 as one of Playhouse Square’s grand movie palaces, the Allen was thoughtfully renovated in 2011–2012. With an intimate capacity of approximately 500 seats, it creates a close, immediate connection between performers and audience that larger venues cannot match.
Cleveland Play House productions at the Allen range from world premieres and reimagined classics to bold contemporary works. The theatre’s scale makes every seat feel close to the action, enhancing the dramatic experience. Together with the other Playhouse Square venues, the Allen forms the heart of Cleveland’s cultural life and the largest performing arts center in the United States outside New York City.
Parking Guide
| Garage / Lot | Address | Approx. Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| E. 14th & Euclid Garage (Recommended) | 1375 Euclid Ave | $10–$18 | Closest option. 2-minute walk to the Allen entrance. |
| Playhouse Square Garage | 1617 E. 17th St | $12–$20 | 5-min walk through the theatre district. |
| Surface Lots (Euclid corridor) | E. 12th–E. 18th | $8–$15 | Cash-only; check for show-night rates. |
| Street Parking (Chester Ave) | Chester / E. 17th–E. 21st | Free evenings | Often available after 6pm on weeknights. |
Parking Pro Tips
Arrive 45–60 minutes before curtain on weekends. The E. 14th & Euclid Garage is the most convenient choice.
Public Transit Directions
HealthLine BRT
Exit at E. 14th St station on Euclid Ave — the Allen entrance is steps away. Best option from downtown or University Circle.
Red Line
To Tower City/Public Square, then walk east on Euclid Ave (10–12 min) or transfer to HealthLine east.
Rideshare
Drop-off on Euclid Ave in front of Playhouse Square. Post-show pickup is easy along the Euclid frontage.
Entry Information & What to Expect
Doors & Curtain
Doors open 1 hour before curtain. Evening performances usually start at 7:30pm.
Late Seating
Strictly enforced — latecomers wait in the lobby until the first appropriate break.
Bag Policy
Small clutches/crossbody bags are fine. Large bags may be checked. No outside food or drinks.
Photography & Recording
Prohibited during performances. Phones must be silenced.
Dress Code
None formal. Business casual to dressy is common; jeans are acceptable.
Food & Drink Highlights
- Lobby Bar: Wine, craft beer, and non-alcoholic drinks. Pre-order intermission drinks when you arrive — they’ll be tagged and ready.
- Nearby Dining: East 4th Street offers excellent pre-show options (reserve ahead for weekends).
Nearby Restaurants & Bars
Pickwick & Frolic
2 min walk · E. 4th St
Upscale New American with comedy club vibe. Knows how to get you out on time.
Chinato
5 min walk · E. 4th St
Chef Zack Bruell’s Northern Italian. Excellent pastas and wine list.
Lola Bistro
6 min walk · E. 4th St
Michael Symon’s flagship — perfect for special nights.
Hodge’s
4 min walk · E. 6th St
Reliable American classics with curtain-friendly service.
The Corner Alley
3 min walk · Euclid Ave
Casual spot with burgers, shareables, and bowling. Great for groups.
Barrio
5 min walk · Prospect Ave
Creative tacos and margaritas. Fast and festive.
Pro Tips — What Locals Know
- Never be late — late seating is strictly enforced.
- Pre-order intermission drinks at the lobby bar.
- Center orchestra rows D–M offer the best acoustics and sightlines.
- HealthLine BRT is often faster than driving from the east side.