Business Details
14 Years
experience
Experience World-Class Performing Arts in Dayton, Ohio
Founded in 2012, the Performing Arts emerged from a groundbreaking merger of the Dayton Opera, Dayton Ballet, and Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, creating the nation's first unified performing arts organization of its kind. Our mission centers on making the transformative power of the arts accessible to all, offering diverse programming that spans classical masterworks, contemporary innovations, and community-focused initiatives. With a shared management structure preserving each discipline's identity, we present over 45 annual performances across multiple venues while maintaining robust educational outreach programs serving 65,000+ individuals yearly. Our collaboration model, inspired by European institutions, fosters artistic synergy while maintaining regional cultural heritage.Under the leadership of Music and Artistic Director Keitaro Harada since 2025, we continue expanding our impact through innovative programming and community partnerships. Financial transparency is maintained through publicly available audited statements and 990 filings. Our donor-supported model ensures accessibility through subsidized programs while maintaining world-class production standards. The alliance operates from the Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center, a state-of-the-art venue central to Dayton's cultural landscape.
Services
Ballet Performances
Opera Productions
Symphony Concerts
Arts Education
Community Outreach
Youth Programs
Ticket Sales
Donor Programs
Event Rentals
Cultural Partnerships
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- First-of-its-kind merger model combining three major performing arts disciplines
- Educational programs reaching 65,000+ children and families annually
- State-of-the-art Schuster Center and historic Victoria Theatre venues
- 80-year legacy as Dayton Ballet, the nation's second-oldest ballet company
- Award-winning artistic leadership with international recognition
Services
Ballet Performances
Dayton Ballet presents classical story ballets and contemporary works at the Victoria Theatre and Schuster Center. The company produces annual Nutcracker performances and premieres new 21st-century ballets. Professional dancers deliver technically demanding choreography in family-friendly and traditional formats.
Opera Productions
Dayton Opera stages bold, diverse productions at the Schuster Performing Arts Center. Performances feature internationally recognized vocalists in classic and contemporary operatic works. Recent seasons included Bizet's Carmen and Handel's Messiah with full orchestral accompaniment.
Symphony Concerts
Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra offers 45+ annual performances spanning masterworks, pops, and chamber music. The 83-member ensemble performs under Music Director Keitaro Harada at multiple venues. Programming includes family concerts, educational outreach, and collaborations with guest artists.
Arts Education
Educational programs serve 65,000+ students annually through field trips, in-school presentations, and participatory workshops. Curriculum-aligned offerings cover music, dance, and theater arts. Donor support keeps programs accessible with minimal or no costs to schools.
Community Outreach
Initiatives include sensory-friendly performances, youth orchestra programs, and community partnerships. Special events like Q the Music concerts and Bach's Lunch series expand access to performing arts. Membership programs engage supporters through exclusive benefits.
Questions
What makes DPAA unique among performing arts organizations?
DPAA uniquely combines three major arts organizations - Dayton Ballet, Dayton Opera, and Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra - under one management structure while preserving each discipline's artistic identity.
How can I purchase tickets for performances?
Tickets are available through the DPAA website, Box Office at 1 West Second Street, or by phone at (937) 228-3630 during regular business hours.
Do you offer educational programs for schools?
Yes, DPAA provides field trip concerts, in-school presentations, and participatory programs serving 65,000+ students annually with donor-supported subsidies.
What venues host DPAA performances?
Performances occur at the Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center and Victoria Theatre, both in downtown Dayton, Ohio.
How is DPAA funded?
DPAA operates through ticket sales, private donations, corporate sponsorships, and grants. Financial information is publicly available through annual reports and IRS Form 990 filings.
Are there volunteer opportunities available?
Yes, DPAA welcomes volunteers for ushering, special events, and administrative support. Visit the official website for application details.
Videos
Reviews (1)
Angela Greene
Oct 14, 2018
Report
A special thank you goes to the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance for the complimentary tickets to the Hometown Holiday show! My friend and I enjoyed looking at the beautiful window displays, listening to the SuperPops and spending time with each other. My favorite part of the show was the song, "All I Want for Christmas is You," which was done by Eleventh Hour (Kettering Fairmont High School). They are so talented!