Kent State’s professional theater, Porthouse Theatre, will host a full season this summer. The season will take place in-person in compliance with the Flashes Safe Eight and state guidelines. 

“We proposed some different options to the university, all in keeping with the Flashes Safe Eight and the state guidelines,” said Joni Koneval, marketing coordinator for the School of Theatre and Dance and Porthouse. “We were given the green light to move forward with the production of essentially a full season, so three shows.”

Patrons will be able to attend all three productions in person, with some restrictions.

“We are planning for seating arrangements that accommodate six feet of separation, and my assumption is if CDC guidance changes to three feet, then we will accommodate for that. And, of course, masks will be required,” Koneval said. 

Those who frequent Porthouse know that picnicking is a big part of the culture there, but, unfortunately, all picnic pavilions and concessions will be closed. Picnic tables will be open and tailgating is also an option.

The summer season will begin June 17 with “Quilters”, and on July 8 “BKYLN” will begin. The season will come to a close on Aug. 15 with “Altar Boyz”.

“We are all very excited about the fact that the pandemic has slowed and improved to a point where we are now confident that we can reopen safely and that art can return to public performance after so long of a time away,” Koneval said.

Lindsey Vlasic covers entertainment and the arts. Contact her at [email protected].