We’re one month away from one of the biggest parties in The Land – Jump Back Ball. And this year the event, and the young professionals group that hosts it, Playhouse Square Partners, are both marking their 35th anniversaries.
In honor of this milestone, we’re sharing ten fun facts about the young professionals group, the annual fundraiser and its impact on our community.
32,000 – The number of total Jump Back Ball attendees for the past 35 years
What started out as a new way to create the future at Playhouse Square has now become one of the “must-attend” events in Northeast Ohio. Jump Back Ball is not only one of the hottest tickets in town, it is also a way to give back to the community.
$3.3 million – The amount of money raised from Jump Back Ball since 1991
Since its inception 35 years ago, Jump Back Ball has raised $3.3 million to support Playhouse Square’s education programs and not-for-profit mission. The proceeds go directly to initiatives like sensory-friendly programming, Disney Musicals in Schools, the Dazzle Awards and Classroom Connections Workshops.
720 – The total number of volunteer hours donated at Shop Nights to create the stunning décor for Jump Back Ball
During nine evenings in January and February, volunteers create and build the decor for Jump Back Ball at Shop Nights. Projects range from easy to difficult and may include designing and assembling, painting, woodworking and construction. All skill levels are welcome! In 2025, more than 90 volunteers participated, giving approximately 720 total hours!
190 – The number of larger-than-life décor pieces created for Jump Back Ball 2025
Last year volunteers created 80 lollipops, 14 mini gumball machines, 40 wrapped candies, 30 wrapped chocolate morsels, 5 candy cane trees and 3 giant chocolate bars… in addition to many other larger projects for “Candy in the Land!” We can’t wait to see what’s in store for this year’s theme, “BLOOM.”
3 – The number of local entertainment acts performing throughout Jump Back Ball
From a performance for VIP attendees to a band that rocks out on the KeyBank State stage and a DJ that keeps the party going in the KeyBank State lobby, Jump Back Ball showcases three incredible local acts during this high-energy event.
1 – The number of Playhouse Square stages that Jump Back Ball attendees get to take center stage on
Jump Back Ball attendees get to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience – being on the KeyBank State stage! Whether you are enjoying food and drinks, dancing the night away to the music of the band or taking photos with friends, enjoy the view that only Playhouse Square performers get to see from our largest stage!
30 – The number of raffle and silent auction items that were offered at Jump Back Ball 2025
In addition to food and drinks, photo opportunities, and games of chance, Jump Back Ball attendees can try their hand at a multitude of fabulous raffle and silent auction items. And new for 2026, the general public will be able to access the silent auction items and contribute to the success of Jump Back Ball!
21 - The number of young professionals on the 2025-26 Partners Board
Partners aims to empower future generations of arts advocates, and the Partners Board Members work on strategic planning, serve as ambassadors to Playhouse Square and chair various committees, including Jump Back Ball, Communications, Engagement and Partners Encore Society.
2,000 – The number of young professionals who have been impacted by Partners over the past 35 years
Since 1991, young professionals who have participated in Partners have created a vibrant community that fosters lifelong connections. This group of Northeast Ohio’s emerging leaders has not only empowered future generations of arts advocates but also dedicated their time and talents to Playhouse Square.
28 – The number of events that Partners hosts every year.
Jump Back Ball isn’t the only event that Partners hosts throughout the year. Members meetings with special guests, engagement events like game nights and show outings and Partners Encore Society events are all ways that Partners cultivates unique leadership, volunteer and social opportunities.
For more information on Partners and Jump Back Ball, visit playhousesquare.org/partners.