| Midland Theatre | |
| Location: | 36 North Park Place Newark, Ohio, USA |
| Type: | performance hall |
| Built: | 1928 |
| Opened: | December 20, 1928 Re-opened 2000 |
| Renovated: | 1992-2000 |
| Closed: | 1978 |
| Owner: | The Longaberger Company |
| Seating Capacity: | approx. 1,800 (originally)[1] |
| Website: | http://www.midlandtheatre.org/ |
The Midland Theatre is a 1,800-seat theatre that was built in 1928 in the Newark Downtown Historic District of Newark, Ohio, United States. Since 2000, it has been used as a performance venue for live music and other performing arts events.
After opening its doors on December 20, 1928,[2] the Midland Theatre served the community of Newark, Ohio, for 50 years primarily as a movie theater, until it closed in 1978. The theatre then reopened briefly as a pornography theater complete with private viewing booths until it was closed due to unfavorable public outcry.[3] In need of repairs, it was purchased by Dave Longaberger and The Longaberger Company in 1992, and after an 8-year, $8.5 million renovation, the Midland opened again in 2000.[3]
Longaberger entrusted the property to The Newark Midland Theatre Association, a local volunteer, non-profit organization.[3] It is also supported by the Ohio Arts Council.[4]
Today, various musical performances by nationally known performers are held at the theater.