Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center, Dayton

The Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center stands as a pinnacle of cultural and architectural achievement in the city. Opened in 2003 on the former site of Rike's department store, this state-of-the-art facility serves as Dayton's premier venue for a wide range of performing arts. Designed by renowned architect Cesar Pelli, the center boasts a striking 2,300-seat theater that hosts performances by local, national, and international groups.

At the heart of the Schuster Center is its majestic theater, adorned with a dome ceiling featuring fiber optic lights. These lights recreate the night sky over Dayton as it appeared on December 16, 1903, the eve before the Wright brothers' first flight. This unique feature pays homage to Dayton's rich aviation history and adds a magical ambiance to the theater's interior.

In addition to its main theater, the Schuster Center includes the Winter Garden, a stunning space with exotic palm trees and a café. The Winter Garden is encased in a large glass wall that offers panoramic views of downtown Dayton, making it an ideal spot for pre-show gatherings and intermissions. This combination of architectural elegance and functionality has made the Schuster Center a beloved hub for both patrons and performers alike, hosting everything from major Broadway productions like "Cats" and "The Phantom of the Opera" to local performances by the Dayton Ballet, Dayton Opera, and Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra.