Michael R. Routa is a retired special education teacher, school administrator and adjunct university professor. He grew up in the Cleveland area, graduated with bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Cleveland State University and a doctorate from Bowling Green State University. He completed research in the field of education and has shared his findings at numerous conferences across the country. Upon retirement, he became a volunteer Redcoat at Playhouse Square and soon after was invited to be a tour guidel. As a guide, he has the great opportunity to showcase Cleveland’s wonderful theaters to visitors from around the country, theaters that should be seen to be fully appreciated. Michael is married to Caryl (also a former teacher), and they have one son, Padriac.

About “A History of Cleveland’s Palyhouse Square”: Cleveland was one of the largest cities in America when Playhouse Square opened as a testament to the city’s splendor. In 1921, Loew’s State, Loew’s Ohio, the Hanna Theater and the Allen opened their doors, and Keith’s Palace Theater, then the world’s finest theater, greeted patrons in 1922. For fifty years, these theaters prospered before falling on hard times. Three even faced demolition. But through visionary planning, hard work and civic pride, these magnificent show palaces survived and thrive today, and Playhouse Square Center is once again the largest theater center outside of New York’s Lincoln Center. Playhouse Square volunteer Redcoat and tour guide Michael R. Routa celebrates the people who made and saved theater in Cleveland.