DAYTON LIVE

Dayton Live is a prominent non-profit arts organization located in downtown Dayton, Ohio. It is dedicated to enriching the community through a diverse array of performing arts and educational programs. Established in 1976 as the Victoria Theatre Association, its mission is to strengthen community engagement in the arts.

Dayton Live achieves this by presenting inspiring performances, offering educational opportunities, and maintaining world-class venues.

Each year, Dayton Live presents over 300 performances, attracting more than 400,000 guests. These events cover a wide range of genres, including touring Broadway shows, concerts, comedy acts, lectures, and family-friendly productions.

Venues

• Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center: Opened in 2003, featuring the 2,300-seat Winsupply Theatre, the 150-seat Mathile Theatre, and the Kettering Wintergarden. It serves as the primary venue for large-scale performances and hosts resident companies such as the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, Dayton Opera, and Dayton Ballet.
• Victoria Theatre: Built in 1866 and restored in 1990, this historic 1,154-seat proscenium theater hosts local productions and national tours.
• Metropolitan Arts Center: Home to The Loft Theatre and The Arts Garage, offering a more intimate setting for performances and educational programs.
• PNC Arts Annex: A flexible black box theater and multi-purpose studio hosting a variety of events and rehearsals.

Community Engagement and Education

Dayton Live is committed to arts education. The Dayton Live Creative Academy offers classes and camps for young performers, fostering the next generation of artists.

The Community Spotlight Program supports local groups, musicians, poets, and performing arts companies, providing opportunities to showcase their talents. The Miami Valley High School Theatre Awards celebrate and advocate for high school theater education, emphasizing the importance of arts in education.

Economic Impact

Economically, Dayton Live generates approximately $33 million in annual economic activity. It supports nearly 600 full-time equivalent jobs, highlighting its importance as a cultural and economic driver in downtown Dayton.

Recent Initiatives

In September 2024, Dayton Live launched the "Spotlight on the Future" capital campaign, aiming to raise $25 million for critical renovations and updates across its venues.

The campaign had already secured over $10 million in its quiet phase, which began in fall 2023. These improvements are essential to maintain facilities and continue providing high-quality arts experiences to the community.

Leadership

Under the leadership of President & CEO Gabriel van Aalst, who joined in September 2024, Dayton Live continues to evolve and expand its offerings.

This ensures that the arts remain a vibrant and integral part of the Dayton community.

Location

• Dayton, OH, USA