Want to buy a theater? Chardon looks for new owner for Geauga Theater
The city of Chardon is officially seeking a new owner for the historic Geauga Theater, marking a significant transition for the 290-seat venue. After nearly three decades of municipal ownership, local officials have determined that the facility no longer aligns with core government services, citing a financial loss of more than $400,000 in expenses over the last nine years.
A Shift in Stewardship
The city’s involvement with the theater began in 1998, when Guardians owner Larry Dolan sold the property to Chardon for one dollar. While the city has invested in upgrades—including the conversion of the movie theater into a stage space, projector installations, and improvements to the lobby and women’s bathroom—City Manager Ben Young stated that the local government lacks the specialized expertise required to manage the venue effectively.
Under previous arrangements, the city covered utility costs while operators retained all ticket revenue, a model Young described as an unfair subsidy by the community for what is essentially a private business. To ensure the venue remains a cultural fixture, any prospective buyer will be required to maintain the property as a performing arts hub.
The Geauga Theater is nearly 90 years old and has been a central part of the community for generations, serving as a venue for summer workshops, professional theater productions, and various local milestones.
Future Possibilities for the Arts Hub
As the city accepts proposals through August 28, the transition could usher in a new era for the theater. City officials have expressed interest in seeing the space host a wider variety of entertainment, such as live bands. The recent enactment of the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) in Chardon may also provide a boost, as it will allow patrons to bring beverages into the theater during performances.
Samantha Carter notes that the city’s decision reflects a common trend where municipalities divest from specialized entertainment venues to prioritize taxpayer funds for essential infrastructure. The success of this transition hinges on finding an operator who can balance the preservation of the building’s historical integrity with the financial necessity of diversifying programming.
Among those interested in the property is Angela Miloro-Hansen, leader of the theater company Curtain 440. Having spent a lifetime at the venue—from childhood workshops to her first job—Miloro-Hansen plans to submit a bid focused on preserving the building while implementing necessary upgrades. The city hopes to finalize the transfer of the property, which the county auditor lists at a market value of $262,500, by the end of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the city of Chardon selling the Geauga Theater?
The city has determined that the theater is not a core government service and that We see unfair for the community to subsidize a private business. Data shows the city has lost more than $400,000 on the property in expenses over the last nine years.
What are the requirements for the new owner?
Any buyer must commit to keeping the 290-seat facility as a performing arts hub for the area.
When will the new owner be selected?
The city is accepting proposals until August 28 and aims to complete the transfer of ownership by the end of the year.
What role do you believe local historic theatres should play in today’s community entertainment landscape?