I had rhe opportunity to watch a short play here recently and loved the cozy theatre. Great service, good drinks, love the intimate setting of the theatre, truly a hidden gem in Cincinnati. read more

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We were here during the Fringe Festival. What a great little theatre! Everything is pretty darn cool. The walk from the entrance to the theater is full of interesting things. It's a very intimate theater, which is great for 'off broadway' type performances. There's not a bad seat in the house. We loved our experience here and look forward to returning. read more

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The absentee was fantastic. Funny, heart tugging, serious, and thrilling. The actors did an amazing job performing and projecting the different moods throughout the play. This is a shorter play, a single act. But they packed a lot into those 90 minutes. I'd definitely recommend this. read more

Know Theatre of Cincinnati - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

An excellent spot for local, independent, and artsy theater. I've seen plenty of shows here over the years and while they've ranged from spectacular to just okay I've never once had a bad performance from the actors nor production values. This isn't where you're going to see spectacular special effects, but good acting and interesting stories, plays you can't see anywhere else! read more

Know Theatre of Cincinnati - Parking lot set up for All's Faire, the play they put on outdoors in end of summer 2021 - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

My daughter and I drove from Dayton tonight to see Puffs. This was a great production! It's a fun show by nature, but you could tell the crew on stage enjoyed putting on the performance. We arrived early and were able to grab a drink and chat for a while before heading upstairs to the show. It's a smaller theater but allows for great interaction and you can hear and see all the players are doing. We would definitely see another production here! read more

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Today was my first time seeing a play at the Know Theatre. I'm so glad I finally had a chance to see a performance! It's a small theatre in the downtown area. There's plenty of parking nearby and I lucked out in finding street parking in front of the theater. It's more casual than some of the other live play venues in the city. After I checked in I was told that there was a bar for drinks, a lounge area to sit while waiting for the play to start, and free coffee and sweets. The play was upstairs. There's a more intimate feel since it's so small and you're close to the stage. This play, The Absentee, had four actors and they were really good! The play and the set were interesting. I definitely recommend checking out the Know Theatre if you get the chance. I'm looking forward to visiting again in the future to see another play. read more

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This was my first time at the Know Theatre. It's located downtown Cincinnati with meter and other parking options. There appear to be restaurants in the area as well to grab food before or after the show. Getting in was very easy. There is a bar located inside and you are able to take drinks up to the theater. There is an elevator for those who need it. Awesome show and great cast. I grew up in the theater so I am critical of shows. The cast did a great job in their various roles. I love how it all plays out in front of you and how they utilize the stage. Although there were five actors playing various parts, you were able to connect with each role being played. I would definitely return to the theater for additional shows. I did hear them mention one that stood out to me so I will be following them to support in the future. read more

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Went to see"The Man-Beast" at the smaller, downstairs stage. We got Groupon tickets and paid the $10 (x2) extra at the door for the brunch prior to the show. The food was provided by Watertower Wines & Catering. Good selection of brunch morsels. All very tasty. Worth the $. Small, intimate, up close stage, interesting story, interesting twist at the end! Very, very good actors. Really pulled you into the story line. Thoroughly enjoyed it! Highly recommend this venue, They do amazing things with a small venue and budget. Well Done well worth it. Definitely going back for more! (Can't wait to see a production on the bigger stage upstairs!) read more

The Know Theatre is a great, casual venue for some truly outstanding performances. There are two stages here, and both provide an intimate theater experience. Our most recent visit here was to see the Man-Beast on the smaller underground stage. It was exceptionally well acted by the (only) two leads, and the stage and lighting was believable and one of my favorite sets I have ever seen. Parking is easy, and they have unusual and innovative shows. Well worth a visit, and close to places to eat and drink before or after the show. read more

Know Theatre of Cincinnati - The amazing set of Man-Beast! Tiny giraffe not included. - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

Went to see "Twunny Fo" last night. It was my first visit to The Know. Best descriptor I can give is AWESOME! The cast put their all into the performance of the well written script. Amazing how well bits of comedy mingled with drama and some relevant issues of today's city life. Hate to say more and spoil the show for those who still want to go see this show. The theater has plenty of parking nearby, and a variety of restaurants and bars a just short walk away. Treat yourself to a great time at some fair prices and make The Know a part of a downtown Cincy evening. read more

I really enjoyed my time at The Know Theatre while attending another fun Yelp Event. This is a quaint 99 seat theatre with a nice bar located at 1120 Jackson Street Cincinnati in the Over The Rhine Area. The events held at The Know allow for an up close personal experience with these gifted actors who provide thought provoking performances. If you love the Arts, you must experience The Know! History Know Theatre Tribe The company was founded in the fall of 1997 when Jay B. Kalagayan formed a 'tribe' of artists who traveled to bookstores and venues in Cincinnati to perform original collaborative works. In 1999 the tribe took up its first residence in the basement of the church at Gabriel's Corner and produced a full season of plays. Prior to 2006, Know Theatre of Cincinnati was known as the Know Theatre Tribe and was housed in the basement at Gabriel's Corner Church, 1425 Sycamore Street in Cincinnati, OH. Know Theatre moved into its new home on Jackson Street, merged with the Cincinnati Fringe Festival, and changed its name to Know Theatre of Cincinnati in 2006.[2] read more

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A little hidden gem right in the heart of Cincinnati. I came here to watch The Absentee by Julia Dolittle. The play itself was incredible and the actors were tremendously impressive. It felt like such a personal experience and was emotional thanks to the incredible acting! The theatre is small and the setting is intimate. Great for the nature of the plays they have there. Don't go expecting a multi-thousand seating venue. There were maybe 100 seats at best. The image that resonated with me the most after we walked in was remembering the theaters where Joey (from Friends) used to play before he got cast on Days of our Lives. The production, lighting, and music was on point and much better than I would have expected for "small" production. It was magnificent! Check in was easy when we arrived. We sat around the bar area while we waited for the show to start. Everyone there was very friendly and parking was easy to find. If you have some time, you should go take a walk around after the show and enjoy the beautiful area around it. This theatre is supported by Artswave and other philanthropic organizations. Head on over there and support these local actors, actresses and the establishment that promotes their work! read more

Know Theatre of Cincinnati - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

This was my first time going to the Know Theater. I was awarded free tickets and was intrigued by the description of the show that was playing, Alabaster. I could only watch half of the show because the acting and subject matter was so intense that as a highly sensitive person, that's all I could handle. I sat in the second row. One of the main characters engaged well with the audience at first; making eye contact and narrating an introduction to the characters. The development of each character was beautifully done through deep conversations exposing the tragic background they reluctantly share in an attempt to not relive their pain or expose their vulnerability. There was so much to relate to for anyone that has ever connected to someone else by showing them their "scars" rather than hiding behind pretense of perfection. I will say that I did leave during intermission because it was just too heavy for me to take all at once so if you are a highly sensitive person, beware you will be absorbing a lot of intense emotions. If you are a deep thinker, are not squeamish about emotional trauma this is a wonderful piece to experience. There are moments of humor to balance the intensity as well. Oh and the actress who played June (the woman being photographed) looks like she could be related to Leonardo DiCaprio...at least in my opinion. Check it out! read more

Went here for a yelp event, and was surprised I have never been here before. The theater was small, so definitely expect and intimate show. For how small the theater is, it's got a sizeable bar, so drinks would not be an issue! We got to interact with the actors of the upcoming puffs play, who were all peppy, bubbly and over the top, exactly what you hope for in an actor! Can't wait to go back to see the show. read more

Know Theatre of Cincinnati - Know Theatre logo - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

This is a fantastic theater. I've seen Neil Gaiman's Neverwhere and more recently to see Duncan Sheik's Whisper House here. Both were fantastic productions. I absolutely swooned. This is just the kind of place that makes theater accessible to The People. It's fun, new, thoughtful. The employees who work there seem to really love what they do which makes the people who go feel really special. Or I do. A lot of what they do is local. Local actors, local productions, etc. Its smaller, so even in some of the seats in the back you can get a close look at what's happening. It's almost like being involved in the production. It's intimate. There's a bar and sometimes food. Or at least a cherry in your drink! It is wheelchair accessible. There is an elevator. The seats are lightly padded metal folding chairs. When I saw Neverwhere, I was doing stretches in the aisles because the seats killed my back. The second time I brought a back cushion. It looked ridiculous to carry around but made the play much more enjoyable. It can also get very hot. Lights, bodies packed together. So wears layers. And have fun. read more

Had a pleasure of seeing their newest production, The Whisper House and was really positively surprised with this cozy yet energetic local Theater. I got tickets through Yelp Giveaway and found it really cool that they were gracious and generous to have people over like that! Thank you! The Theater is right in the heart of OTR, fantastic location for combining the show with dinner and drinks. The lobby/lounge area is amazing! They have a full bar, comfy sofas and lots of chairs. There is live music there every weekend and the admission is free! The stage of the Theater is upstairs and the seats are very close to the actors. It is open seating, but seriously, not a bad seat in the house. The sound and lights were good and I felt like I was really in the middle of the 'action'. The Whisper House is a musical with a little darker storyline involving ghosts, fears and some family tragedies. It was timed very well (1.5h with 15' intermission), with real musicians and excellent singers providing great experience that did not let us, the audience, slip into too dark thoughts :) Really happy I could visit the Know Theater and look forward to seeing their future productions. Btw, they support their artists and the living wage, which is great. read more

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I came here with my mom to see The Absentee. I was pleasantly surprised by the quaintness of the theater and the basement bar. The host and ticket taker were friendly and informative. The bartender was so nice and super accommodating - willing to make me a mimosa before the Sunday matinee. The provided snacks and dessert items were quite delicious. The theater was set up very simply and allowed for any seat in the house see the stage clearly. The story was amazing and the actors played their roles so well. I will definitely be visiting this theater again! read more

A neat quaint little space. I went and saw the Princess of Floralee which I thoroughly enjoyed. The play was well written, funny yet interesting and it kept my attention. It incorporated math, science and audience participation. The area was dimly lit as most theaters are. Upon entering you walk down a ramp into the "theater". read more

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I wanted to share my great experience at the Know Theatre. I moved to Cincinnati the week of the Improv Festival of Cincinnati, hosted by the Know Theatre. Cut to 2 years later and I find myself at the Know Theatre a couple times a month to enjoy the community theater that's done there. They have a great combination of theater, musicals, poetry, art and improv comedy. Every year, Know is the headquarters for the Fringe Festival which is also an amazing collection of visual and performing arts. The community is awesome too, with big parties and variety shows every night after Fringe concludes. I just love the Know! read more

I have to give this a five star because they work so hard for it. Widely varied, small production, local theatre for a reasonable price. On top of that, they have so many great community activities including happy hours, great bands, and killer holiday events. They have a large dj/band/dance area upstairs and a lounge area down. Both include bars. Parking is, well, what you would expect for the area: not terrible, but plan to do some walking. The staff is so friendly, and they want to get the community involved. As a result they do have special events and discounts from time to time. It's worth it to stop in for a couple events and see for yourself. read more

This is a great spot! A gem to the Cincinnati arts community. Great plays at an affordable price. Blink and you'll miss it but once you find your way around you'll want to come back. Great bar! I would have given this spot 5 stars but man, they need some fans! It's hot as blazes up in here! read more

Moving Chicago to the Queen City, it was great to discover this little place. Located in the heart of downtown, the Know Theatre is a tiny but mighty little location with a bar inside to get your drinks before your show starts. My friend and I saw Neverwhere and it was very good! A lot of senior actors and creative staging to pull off such a diverse background needed to display images of this book. It seats about 60 people so it's small and intimate. I requested front row because my friend is hard of hearing and they had no problem making that accommodation for no additional cost. The bar is nice but has limited selections including little to no food so make sure to eat ahead of time. Come early to get parking especially depending on that day you go. Monday-Friday metered parking until 9pm than free after that. The arts are alive and well in Cincinnati! Highly recommend. read more

If you like small theaters; You'll love the Know The Know theater is spectacular. The decor is very modern, yet in touch with the arts. The performance area is intimate, and makes you feel like you are just as much part of the show as the cast. My wife and I saw Petunia and Chicken there last night and loved it. Tickets are priced reasonably. I think $12-15 in advance and $20 the day of performance. It makes for a good date night. There is small bar in the waiting area, with reasonably priced drinks and a few local beers. It is well put together and the experience is very enjoyable. We are going back to see Bull later this month. I'm looking forward to it. read more

Know Theatre of Cincinnati - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

Show was fantastic! Parking was easy, nice big bar! If they can put more Alcohol options in this such a nice bar that will be awesome. Also in a busy full house night a professional bartender or even an extra help at the bar is important. It was hard to get another drink during the break, specially the bartenders didn't even know who was in the line first cause she wasn't well trained for big bar like that. read more

Know Theatre of Cincinnati - This Armbar drink is awesome! - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

One of the more lovely things about The Know is that their seems to be something going on here all the time. If you've got a hankering for performance you can check out Serials, OTR Improv, Fringe, the Improv Festival, or one of their Seasonal shows. Despite all that goes on here, the Know somehow finds a way to fly under the radar. Often when I am hanging out at a bar or restaurant within a block of this place, I'll speak of seeing shows here and be surprised to find out that people KNOW very little about it. The Know has a spiffy bar area and is more often than not, reasonably priced. read more

The Theatre in town to check out cutting edge theatre and host of the annual Fringe Festival in June. Plus versatile venue for variety of events, checking out the latest unsigned bands at the MidPoint Music Festival in September. When you enter the venue stop and enjoy a pre-show drink at the speakeasy lounge, they offer a variety of local craft beers and the latest cocktails. Then walk upstairs to where the show begins, the production team is very creative in arranging the seats for the shows throughout the season. You can also rent the theatre for special event as I recently attended the Rise of the Rest pitch competition at the theatre. read more

I had never been to the Know Theater but been near, around, in front of, etc. many times. A few friends and I decided on an evening out at the theater and we saw Collapse. I had no idea what it was about, hanging out with good friends was draw enough, and when it opened I though we were in for something relating to anal sex. I then learned it had nothing to do with that (hormone shot in the butt rather), and was relieved as the crowd was largely older, coupled, and that might have been weird. The show was four people, one set, and a great story. The theater itself was intimate (though the significant other was feeling nervous about the chairs on the risers 'moving'- ironic to the theme of our show). The lighting and set design were really successful in creating multiple scenes without movement. And in the end I was taken by the fact that despite movies costing tons of money and time, what is really desired in seeing a production is the story. This place told a good story this night, and I imagine they usually do. As most theaters do, there was a pitch for fundraising that really starts to bug me after I've spent money on my ticket, but I understand the need to capitalize on an interested and captive audience. I'm not in a phase of my life to donate at a mere request, so I wish this was more 'elective' than part of the introduction. My only complaint. We had dinner at Mayberry beforehand (and a 20% discount for our theater attendance) and didn't have a drink since we'd had a few with dinner, but I liked the bar atmosphere on the first floor had we arrived earlier. I'd go back to the Know Theater. It was a fun and relatively affordable, high quality production. I assume this is their angle, and it's one I can get behind. Thanks Know, for a great start to an evening in OTR. read more

Know Theatre of Cincinnati - Collapse. - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

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This little theater in OTR is a cute little place tucked into the trendy area. I would describe it as a more personal theater experience. They also offer a nice selection of adult beverages. If you are looking for a different, more intimate theatre experience, the Know Theatre is a definite one to catch read more

Between Fringe Fest, Thunderdome, and their main stage events, what's not to love? Been going here for over a decade now and this year, I had the honor of performing in one of their serials. If you're looking for interesting, original performances with far more accessible ticket pricing than a lot of other theatres in town, don't hesitate to drop by The Know. Speaking of accessible, their seating is A LOT more accommodating to those with disabilities than, say, The Aronoff or Ensemble. They're also far more comfortable for larger patrons in both weight and height (HELLO LEG ROOM!). However, you'll have to let someone know if you need the elevator to access the second floor, which is a little off putting; both because accessibility options should be accessible without someone having to let you in, and the elevator itself isn't immediately noticeable/seems a little old. That being said, this place is still my absolute favorite, and any person interested in partaking of the Cincinnati art scene hasn't fully experienced it if they haven't yet been to The Know. Definitely check it out. read more

So the first time I came here was for the NYE's Speakeasy Party and it was fantastic. Food, drinks, some casino action with fake money and an opportunity to win prizes with the raffle portion. My friends and now husband, then fiance dressed up and had such a wonderful time. The price was also so incredibly reasonable that if I was not out of the country for NYE this year to quote the Terminator "I'll be back" (well to be grammatically correct, I would be back). To tie the NYE party review with my recent attendance at the Know, my then fiance raffle number was called and he got his pick of prizes. Being the smart man that he is (evidenced by marrying me) he chose the Flex pass which was a $90 value for six shows or in our case 6 tickets for three shows. So for one of our shows we went to see the play Petunia and Chicken. It was such a wonderful show. Two actors with only a hat and shawl providing scenery, other characters and imagery retold a love story. It was a fast and great way to spend 60 minutes. Seeing this play makes me so excited to come back in a couple of weeks to watch Bull and then in december to travel to Arnold's and see the Naughty List. The Know will definitely be a place we come to for excellent entertainment and fun. read more

Know Theatre of Cincinnati - Performing Arts Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

They're weird, they're wild, and they're wonderful! I absolutely adore the Know! Home of the Cincy Fringe Festival for two weeks at the beginning of the summer, the Know also puts on their own shows. These shows are sure to spark imagination and new ways of looking at things. I received free tickets to see "Girl in the Red Corner" and it was incredible. While the theater itself is small, their ensemble of actors is mighty! There is so much talent at this theater and I wish more people would come to their shows. read more

Disclaimer: I volunteered for the Know WAAAAY back in the day when it was in the old church on the corner of Liberty and Sycamore. So I've always been partial to this scrappy little theater. We recently attended a production of Moby Dick, which is one of my favorite books. The set was so creative -- an assortment of ropes, metal plates, and canvas were hung to simulate the ship Pequod. The actors were excellent, and because it's such a small theater, you have a good view anywhere you sit (it's a very cozy set-up -- I'm guessing the attendance tops out at 75 max?) Best part? They have a bar downstairs that serves drinks that you can take upstairs while you watch the play. Win! read more

Wow. My first, but hopefully not last, trip to this theatre was for the Gruesome Playground Injuries Yelp preview. Before I entered the theatre I was struck by the cool red light Know Theatre loge projected onto the sidewalk. As Susan L. stated, the marquee helps you find this theatre on a street that I had never "know"ingly been on. Get it? When we entered, there was a nice lady that greeted us and directed us to the area where there is a really cool cabaret style area and bar. I skipped the bar so I can't comment on prices and options but noticed a few people drinking beers. The theatre for GPI was upstairs, so I'm not sure how often the lower level stage is used. I will try not to repeat Susan L's synopsis, but the setup for GPI is rather open and the video projections during the scenes are soooo cool. See the picture. The show's length is perfect. The plot, while dark and moody, is at times lighthearted and laugh inducing. I left feeling that I had really seen a great show and was able to share it with other theatre lovers. Thanks to Alex S. for arranging this event. I will certainly try to support this theatre in the future and look forward to other semi-avant garde/modern productions. read more

Such a neat little space for very unique shows! The bar area is a great spot to grab a drink before the show. The seats are first-come, first-serve, but the theater isn't big at all so all seats are great! I'm a big fan of tiny, intimate theaters and feeling completely immersed in the show. I've been to a couple shows here and the actors and special effects always impress me so I'll continue to come back! read more

I never knew about the Know Theatre and it was a nice little surprise. We decided to go for their New Year's Eve celebration and we got dressed to the nines for the occasion. It was a 1920's themed party, and they sure did it right! We walked in to a coat check area and were handed a ticket for the champagne toast at midnight and some funny money to gamble with. We could hear a band playing music appropriate for the era, complete with all the flappers, gangsters and fashonista's the 20's would have been proud to host. The bar served Martinis, well drinks and sidecars along with locally brewed beers. A small buffet was set up near the band, and it smelled tasty although I didn't try it. The area had some seating, and it was definitely a party. We went upstairs and it opened up to a dance club type scene with high top circle tables lining the outer wall. The music was thumping some 1920's dance music complete with screens of videos showing both dancing from the time and silent movies. It was pretty unique and very fun. The next room held the casino where you could play games like Blackjack and Roulette. If you didn't want to gamble, but were feeling lucky, you could put your play money in the hopper to win some prizes. At midnight, they showed the ball drop as the whole room shouted the countdown. We kissed our sweeties and had the champagne toast. It was sort of magical and very cool to get all snazzy together. The only downside to the night was that they had two bars, but only the one downstairs served the martinis, well drinks and sidecars. I felt like a large majority of the night was spent waiting for drinks because the line was so long. Walking up and down those steps repeatedly in heels was not ideal. The drinks were small, so we could have just ordered two at a time I suppose, but ah well. Not that big of a deal. I would love to come back and see a show sometime based on how fun a special occasion night was. read more

This venue is awesome! Forward and provocative, and very entertaining. I came here for the sneak preview of COCK. What a fantastic show! The actors did a fantastic job portraying their characters. I love the way this theatre is set up. Bar downstairs and stage area upstairs. The upstairs is set up like stadium bleachers with the middle of the floor being the stage area for the actors to perform. It offered a very different perspective while watching the show. I enjoyed it a lot! I highly recommend checking out a show here! read more

People of Cincinnati: YOU HAVE TO GO TO THE KNOW THEATRE! The Know is provocative, ahead of it's time, and sometimes even raunchy so it's makes perfect sense that it is in Cincinnati. Hahah Just kidding. But I'm so glad it is! The main reason I am in love with this place is because it brings all of that craziness to a sometimes very conservative city. The show I saw was COCK. It featured three and sometimes four characters. The main storyline was that a gay man falls in love with a woman and the rethinks his entire being. The point? Society is so obsessed with what and how you are loving rather than who. This play has a solid base that any one could relate to. It was also sometimes so tense that it was funny. Very nicely written and comedicaly timed. As for the theatre itself, the front is stunning you know its the KNOW when you see it! There are two areas: the bar area/lounge on the bottom level and then you go upstairs to the theatre/staging area. It's a little dingy but it think that adds to its character. Overall this theatre opened my eyes to another level of Cincinnati's greatness I didn't even know was there. Don't you just love that? Cheer's to The Know. Keep doin' what you're doing and I can't wait for the Fringe Festival now!!! read more

I absolutely love this place! The shows are great and always fun to go see. I feel like this place is almost a hidden gem that not many people know about yet which is nice because it's not overly crowded, but disappointing b/c they deserve more credit. One of the many shows I've seen was a burlesque theme circus show and was pretty phenomenal. Additionally, if you choose to volunteer and help out with set up 2 hours before the event, you get to watch the show for free! Staff is super friendly, and you can easily tell they have a passion for what they do there. Also, there's a bar for you to enjoy a beverage during to take with you to enjoy while you watch the show! read more

I recently had an opportunity to see a production of "The Dragon." I hadn't been to a Know Theatre performance since their days at Gabriel's Corner, so that should tell you it was a long-overdue visit. I really like their new (to me) space. There is a nice sitting area downstairs with a bar and an upstairs performance space with general seating. The performance was great. I'm really looking forward to visiting again. read more

This is a super fun little theater. The downstairs is a nice shape to meet up, have a drink and chat before or after the play. Then you walk up stairs and you're in the theater area. there is a center stage, with seating directly in front and on occasions, seating on both left and right stage, which is still a great viewing angle. no matter where you sit, you are with in 20 feet of the stage. Very up close and personal with the performers and the show. read more