Roses are red, violets are blue, Jump Back Ball is back and ready to BLOOM!
Playhouse Square’s 35th annual Jump Back Ball fundraiser will be presented with the theme “BLOOM: Unlock the magic of the secret garden” on February 28, 2026, at the KeyBank State Theatre. The event is hosted by Partners, Playhouse Square’s young professionals group, and invites attendees to eat, drink and dance all while raising funds for the organization’s education programs that helps young performers blossom.
Over more than three decades, Jump Back Ball has raised $3.3 million for Playhouse Square’s education programs. The proceeds go directly to initiatives like sensory-friendly programming, Disney Musicals in Schools, the Dazzle Awards and Classroom Connections Workshops.
“Playhouse Square is fortunate to have a group like Partners that is empowering future generations of arts advocates,” said Craig Hassall, Playhouse Square President & CEO. “Their time and dedication throughout the year, and especially at Jump Back Ball, creates a lasting impact on our education programs which foster creativity, critical thinking, cultural awareness and confidence.”
Tickets are now available for purchase at playhousesquare.org/jumpbackball. Attendees can choose from various price points ranging from VIP to general admission and late night. Tickets prices will increase in January 2026.
Guests are encouraged to dress on theme for this elegant event, which will feature stunning handmade décor and live performances from local entertainers, along with a generous spread of hors d’oeuvres and an open bar.
Jump Back Ball is co-chaired by Partners Board members Kristen Swinton and Alicia Trumbull. The event is brought to life by the many volunteers who sew, build and paint the event’s décor, which embrace the year’s theme. For those interested in creating décor for the 2026 Jump Back Ball, Shop Nights are scheduled to begin in late January 2026.
For 35 years, Partners has focused on providing those in their 20s and 30s with opportunities to develop leadership skills and build community connections while supporting Playhouse Square’s not-for-profit mission through fundraising and volunteer work. More information is available at playhousesquare.org/partners.
Jump Back Ball is made possible by the generous support of Data Genomix, Ohio CAT, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, nicholas guglielmo, Taft, Duke Print Mail Solutions, type+design and Pope’s Kitchen.