Business Details
Experience Classic Theatre in Toledo, OH
The Lakeside Theatre Company is a professional theatre organization dedicated to reviving comedic and dramatic classics by major American playwrights. Founded by Mary F. Aufman and Mary T. Boyer, our mission is to introduce forgotten and inspiring plays to audiences while celebrating theatre's power to illuminate the human condition. With decades of combined experience, our leadership curates professional productions that blend historical significance with contemporary relevance. We prioritize immersive storytelling through works like *I Remember Mama* and *The Shop Around The Corner*, performed in intimate venues across the Great Lakes Region.Our commitment to artistic excellence is supported by grants from organizations like The Arts Commission, ensuring accessibility to diverse audiences. By fostering collaboration between local and national talent, we aim to elevate Toledo's cultural landscape through high-caliber, thought-provoking theatre.
Services
Theatre Productions
Auditions
Community Classes
Media & Press
Volunteer Programs
Highlights and features
- We specialize in forgotten American theatrical classics with historical significance
- Our leadership has decades of combined professional theatre experience
- We produce intimate, character-driven performances in accessible venues
- We combine local talent with national-level artistic expertise
- Our productions receive critical acclaim for emotional depth and technical precision
What people say
Fantastic production
Talent and professionalism
Enjoyable experience
Thought-provoking performances
Broadway-caliber talent
Services
Theatre Productions
Our professional theatre productions feature forgotten American classics by playwrights like John Van Druten and Samson Raphaelson. We specialize in intimate stagings that highlight character development and historical context. Each production combines local and national talent to deliver emotionally resonant performances that connect with modern audiences.
Auditions
We hold open auditions for all-female and ensemble-driven productions, prioritizing diverse, inclusive casting. Our process includes monologue submissions and script readings for upcoming shows like *I Remember Mama*. Equity and non-Equity actors receive equal consideration for roles across multiple age ranges and character types.
Community Classes
We offer acting workshops and theatre education programs focused on classical performance techniques. These sessions provide skill development for emerging actors and community members interested in stagecraft. Participants gain hands-on experience through masterclasses led by professional theatre practitioners.
Media & Press
Our media initiatives include press releases, production photography, and promotional materials for upcoming shows. We collaborate with local publications like The Toledo Blade to generate critical reviews and audience testimonials. This content documents our artistic process and community impact.
Volunteer Programs
We engage volunteers for production assistance, event coordination, and administrative support. These programs provide behind-the-scenes theatre experience while helping sustain our operations. Volunteers contribute to set design, audience services, and marketing efforts for all productions.
People
Mary F. Aufman
Co-Founder
Mary F. Aufman co-founded The Lakeside Theatre Company with decades of professional theatre experience. She directs productions like *I Remember Mama* and performs in key roles, bringing expertise in classical acting and stage management to the organization.
Mary T. Boyer
Co-Founder
Mary T. Boyer co-founded the company with extensive background in theatrical production and direction. She performs in lead roles and oversees artistic programming, focusing on reviving historically significant American plays for contemporary audiences.
Questions
What type of plays do you produce?
We specialize in forgotten American theatrical classics by playwrights like John Van Druten and Samson Raphaelson, focusing on comedies and dramas with historical significance.
How can actors audition for your productions?
We hold open auditions for Equity and non-Equity actors, requiring monologue submissions and script readings. Casting notices appear on our website with dates and preparation requirements.
Where are your performances held?
Our productions primarily occur at the Maumee Indoor Theatre in Maumee, OH, with some events in Toledo venues for special performances and community outreach.
How can I support the theatre company?
Support options include financial donations, volunteer participation, and attending productions. Contributions help sustain our operations and expand community access to classical theatre.
Do you offer educational programs?
We provide acting workshops and theatre education initiatives focusing on classical performance techniques for emerging actors and community members interested in stagecraft.