Playhouse Square is proud to announce Akron Children’s as the new presenting sponsor of the Children’s Theater Series, a partnership that celebrates the shared belief that the arts have the power to enrich, heal and transform the lives of children and families across northeast Ohio.
“We are thrilled to welcome Akron Children’s into our family of supporters and look forward to the many ways this partnership will elevate the Children’s Theater Series by inspiring curiosity, nurturing imagination and expanding learning through the performing arts.” said Craig Hassall, Playhouse Square President & CEO.
Hassall continued, “Part of our mission is to be a leader in the advancement of arts education and the presentation of performing arts experiences, and Akron Children’s shares that commitment to creating environments where children can thrive. We are deeply grateful for their partnership.”
As the only health care system in northeast Ohio fully dedicated to pediatric care, Akron Children’s is committed to protecting, preserving and enriching childhood. This starts with convenient access to pediatric-trained experts at two hospital campuses, eight regional health centers and more than 50 primary and specialty care locations throughout northeast and southeast Ohio. The health system’s comprehensive, coordinated care extends beyond brick and mortar to the community where children and families live, work and play.
“Arts and humanities play a vital role in nurturing children’s development – helping them explore their creativity, build confidence and make sense of the world around them,” said Chris Gessner, Akron Children’s CEO. “We believe caring for kids means supporting their whole well-being, and that includes experiences that spark imagination and joy.
“Playhouse Square has long been a cultural treasure for northeast Ohio families, and we’re proud to support a series that brings the wonder of live performance to children across the region,” he added.
For families in Greater Cleveland, Akron Children’s offers primary and specialty care, outpatient surgery and urgent care at its location in Beachwood. It also offers primary care, quick care and breastfeeding medicine at its location in Mayfield Heights. Most recently, the health system announced a new collaboration with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio as its exclusive pediatric partner for health services and programming. As part of that partnership, Akron Children’s will open a new pediatric primary care office on Broadway Avenue in Cleveland in October 2026, further deepening its commitment to families in Greater Cleveland and across the region.
“Access to our pediatric health services in Cleveland continues to increase, as we are fully committed to meeting families where they live, learn and play. From new clinical offerings to community-based partnerships, we’re proud to be strengthening our ties across Cleveland and the larger region,” said Gessner. “Partnering with Playhouse Square allows us to extend that commitment in a meaningful way – advancing kids’ health and supporting more childhood for all.”