Feature Friday: The Ritz Theatre

Happy Feature Friday, where every Friday the Chamber team will highlight one of our fantastic members by repping them for the day and telling the community more about them. This week's Feature Friday is: The Ritz Theatre!

The Ritz Theatre joined the downtown Tiffin scene at a time when theaters were popping up everywhere to showcase the newest entertainment craze- movies. Original builders Dan Kerwin and Adam Ritzler wanted to create a theater more beautiful than any other around, a theater where the building itself was just as integral to the enjoyment of one’s evening as the show they were going to see. If the murals on the walls ornately depicting Italian art and architecture aren’t enough to take your breath away, certainly the magnificent, larger than life chandelier in the center of the house steals the show. 

Of the four theaters built in Tiffin during the same era, the Ritz Theater is the only one still standing. The doors officially opened on December 20, 1928, hosting over 1,500 excited audience members to witness the Ritz Quality Orchestra. In 1998 the Ritz was renovated back to almost original condition, and stands as a reminder of the grandeur of movie palaces in an era long gone.

A unique aspect about the operation of the Ritz Theatre is the opportunities for local performers of all ages to get on stage and be a part of a show. The Ritz Players present a number of performances each year, performed by community members with a love of the stage, and often directed by local talent. Youth and teens can also get involved by joining the Ritz Teen Thespian Guild or participating in the annual summer camps. The Ritz Theatre Discovery Series presents four programs each year for school-age children to enjoy as a part of their academics. The Ritz partners with educators throughout Northwest Ohio to create programming and Special Study Guides that allow for students to be exposed to the arts and tie their experience in the theater to the classroom. In addition, each year the Ritz brings in a number of headlining performances, comedy shows, concerts, and movie screenings. These are awesome opportunities to see renowned artists and discover up and coming performers. 

Tickets are now on sale for ALL shows for the 2023-2024 season! See the full line up of amazing entertainment here. Thank you to The Ritz Theatre for bringing the arts to life in our community and for being dedicated Chamber members. The Ritz Theatre and all who support their mission and cause are stewards for good in our world and create memories for many to last a lifetime!