Over the last couple years, I’ve had the fortunate opportunity to explore some of the most amazing places and the history of Akron, Ohio. One of my good clients is based in the area, so I tend to travel there five or six times a year. Last year, I shared an amazing rental studio in Akron in my article “A Gem Of A Studio in Akron, Ohio.”

The Civic Theatre, located in downtown Akron, Ohio, has an amazing history since 1929 when it was designed by John Eberson and built by Marcus Loew. In 2001, the theater was closed to restore and expand this amazing Akron landmark to its original beauty. The theatre, which is run by a non-profit organization and operates with private funds, was reopened in November 2002.

From the theatre’s website:

“The interior structure was fashioned after a Moorish castle featuring Mediterranean decor, including medieval carvings, authentic European antiques and Italian alabaster sculptures. Among facilities of its size, the Civic is one of only five remaining atmospheric theaters in the country where patrons experience a twinkling star-lit sky and intermittent clouds moving across the horizon, all while sitting inside the auditorium.”

Woodwork detail throughout the venue. Photo by Scott Berens.

When we first started location scouting for a project early last year, I was a bit skeptical about shooting in Akron, but when I walked into this gem of a venue I fell in love. The exterior of the building is a bit understated with traditional brick and the typical theatre marquee entrance. It’s when you walk into the lobby that you’re truly amazed at the beauty of this space, the interior design is just spectacular with wood carvings throughout. You are transported into another period of our country’s history and the history of the once very wealthy rubber town that the theatre sits in.

As part of the rental of the space for our shoot, we were required to hire the house manager, a fly man, and two stage hands. They weren’t the typical union guys taking breaks every couple of hours, These guys wanted to work and were always available to help, make suggestions and were indispensable during load in and load out. Though shooting in this beautiful space has its costs, it’s definitely worth it.

A page from our concept sheets showing more images of The Akron Civic Theatre.

Kevin Michael Reed shooting on the stage at The Civic Theatre in Akron, Ohio.

About the author

Kevin Michael Reed
Kevin Michael Reed (Google+, Facebook) is a fashion & beauty photographer and producer/director based in New York City and Los Angeles, CA. He is the President/CEO of RedFOG Visual Media, a production company in New York City, and a partner in Passion of Photography, Inc, a company dedicated to teaching photographers and sharing our passion through charitable causes. Kevin has lectured and hosted workshops throughout the United States and the world teaching photographers the business and creative sides of photography. (Kevin's Fashion & Beauty Photography Portfolio can be seen here).

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