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Following the publication of a previous report examining the ethics of unpaid labor in local theaterr CLICK LINK, tthe conversation across Northwest Ohio’s theater community has continued to evolve. What began as a debate over whether artists should be paid has shifted toward a more complex question: How can community theaters realistically compensate performers and production teams while remaining financially sustainable? A Continued Conversation In the days since the stor

By Floyd Anderson As local theater thrives in Northwest Ohio, artists and volunteers are asking a difficult question: Should the people who bring these productions to life be paid? “The question of compensation has become increasingly relevant as artists across the country reconsider the role of unpaid labor in nonprofit arts organizations.” On a typical rehearsal night in Toledo, the energy backstage feels electric. Actors rehearse lines under fluorescent lights, directors a

iDance Telethon commercial. Written and Produced by Floyd Anderson For 12 straight hours on Saturday, Feb. 28, the spotlight will shine on inclusion. Inclusive Arts Ohio is hosting its annual benefit concert telethon, “iDance with Love,” a daylong fundraiser designed to support adaptive arts programming for individuals of all abilities. The event runs from noon to midnight and will be held in person while also streaming live on Facebook. Organizers say 100 percent of the proc

Stone Productions is celebrating its 10th anniversary season by opening with the Tony Award-winning musical “Avenue Q,” a bold and unconventional choice that reflects the company’s decade-long commitment to provocative storytelling and boundary-pushing theater. Founded with a mission to challenge traditional expectations, Stone Productions has carved out a distinct place in the Toledo arts scene. Director Derek Roe describes the company as “the renegade of Toledo theater,” a

Toledo Zoo display. Photo Floyd Anderson 2025 The holiday spirit is alive and glowing at the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium , which this season is celebrating the 40th year of its beloved Lights Before Christmas event. The annual tradition officially opened in late November, and this year’s display is bigger, brighter, and more immersive than ever. The Lights Before Christmas festivities run now through December 31st, giving families and visitors a full month to take in the magic of

Every year, small business owners across the region come together for Strategic Action Planning Day (SAP Day), an annual event hosted by E.A. Lewis & Associates designed to help entrepreneurs build a clear and actionable strategic plan for the upcoming business year. This year’s session, held on Friday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Buckeye Bnk ,conference room in Perrysburg. Brought together about thirteen attendees—from personal decluttering professionals to heads of HR—each

In a media landscape where trust and connection matter more than ever, Fayth Atkins has become one of the most recognizable and engaging faces in Northwest Ohio. As an on-air personality and community voice, Fayth brings a powerful blend of warmth, professionalism, and authenticity to every story she delivers. Although her television station is not a typical “news” station Fayth finds new and innovative ways to connect with their audience. Through broadcast and digital media,

As the government shutdown stretches on, housing organizations across the region are feeling the strain — and so are the people they serve. For Alexandria Thomas, Director of Community Relations and Development at Neighborhood Properties , the ripple effects are already reaching home. For the funding of SNAP benefits to paying rent. “About 90 percent of the clients we house are considered low income,” Thomas explained. “Many also live with mental illness or substance use dis

Toledo’s fall tradition of fishnets, fun, and “Time Warp” madness was alive and well. Stone Productions once again packed the house at the Collingwood Arts Center, selling out all three nights of The Rocky Horror Show during its 10th anniversary season. Each performance brought diverse crowds who came ready to sing, shout, and dance along. From seasoned fans who’ve made it a yearly ritual to first-timers soaking in the chaos, the audience energy was electric. It wasn’t just

Fall time in Toledo is the season for pumpkin spice, sweaters, corn mazes and the cult theater show "Rocky Horror." Stone Productions has...

Toledo’s Improv scene is set to take center stage this October. “ Smelly Button Presents: Chaple Groans: Improv-enomenon ” is a 3 day...

In the heart of Toledo, The Collective is making waves as a hub of empowerment, connection, and celebration for the city’s Black LGBTQ+...

The summer air was filled with anticipation as I stepped into the Detroit Lions Training Camp in Allen Park, Michigan. From the moment I...

Toledo is a city where parks shape the community, and nowhere is that more visible than in the heart of downtown. With the creation of...

Toledo’s creative energy is reaching new heights, and improv comedy is quickly becoming one of the standout features of the city’s arts...

Downtown Toledo came alive with color, music, and celebration as thousands gathered for the annual Toledo Pride Parade, part of the...

By Floyd Anderson Aug. 4, 2025 Last night, I scored a spot in the GA standing area on the floor at Little Caesars Arena for Katy...

Toledo, Ohio may be known for its industrial legacy and “Glass City” nickname, but after dark, the city transforms into a vibrant hub for...

The recent announcement that Conan O’Brien and Nikki Glaser will return as hosts for the Oscars and Golden Globes has sparked...

General view of the red carpet before the start of the Oscars on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. (AP...