Enjoy the show!

There’s a certain magic to live theatre. It’s transformative entertainment, of course, but the magic also exists in what live, local theatre represents. It’s community, creativity and connection on full display at the Fine Arts Association in Willoughby. The staff, crew and actors are getting ready to kick off the 2026-27 season in their newly renovated theater. 

Creating some of that magic is scenic artist Maria Lister Northern, who has been reimagining, then painting raw wood and other materials, to transport audiences to a whole new world for the past 15 years. 

“It’s really nothing until the actors are performing in it, bringing it to life and creating something that the audience believes in,” says Maria. “When it all comes together for a production, it really is magic.”

Technical director Michael Roesch oversees lighting, sound, video and even some props, to elevate the quality of each production.

“Together with sound designer John Miller, we are consistently exceeding community theater status and reaching near-professional levels of production,” says Michael. “This includes the help of backstage crews, all volunteers as young as 11 years old, who love the opportunity to grow and learn through theater.”

Michael describes each show as “a family.” And if that’s true, house manager Katie Quinlan is happy to be related.

“I started at Fine Arts 15 years ago as an usher, wearing our signature purple vests,” says Katie. “It allowed me to see my daughter’s shows and be around theater and music. Now, as house manager, I oversee the lobby, train the ushers and even act in some shows. Just look for the purple vest. We’re here to help.”

The Fine Arts Association has been offering educational programming in theater, music, dance and visual and digital arts for children and adults since its inception in 1957. And what’s happening this fall is particularly exciting for everyone here, especially artistic director David Malinowski. 

“The recently completed theater renovation includes new seating, the reconfiguration of the sound booth, and a theater-dedicated HVAC system, together allowing for a more comfortable experience,” says David. “We are extremely grateful to the Jerome T. and Georgeanne S. Osborne Charitable Trust, the State of Ohio, and our friends at Marous Construction for making this renovation possible. Just as any production, it takes a team—a family—working together to make it happen.”

And speaking of family, the Malinowski family’s history with Fine Arts Association runs deep. David started violin lessons here when he was 4. His father Ronald remembers those days fondly. 

“I’ve been involved in some way for 43 years,” says Ronald. “For the past four years, I’ve been serving as bartender at the theater’s Libation Station.”

David jokes, “He sent me here for 14 years, and now he’s trying to make his money back in tips.”

David emphasizes that it’s the volunteers like his dad who are the heart and soul of Fine Arts Association, and there are many ways to get involved. 

“No need to travel far for high-quality theater,” says David. “And we offer free parking and reasonable ticket prices. We are consistently raising the bar and creating an enjoyable, quality experience for all ages.”

The Fine Arts Association

38660 Mentor Ave., Willoughby

440-951-7500

FineArtsAssociation.org