Photo: Hilary Bovay
Radio on the Lake Theatre: Shadow of a Doubt
A Live Radio Play Performance presented by Radio on the Lake Theatre:
Dive into suspense and secrets at Shadow of a Doubt—where nothing is quite what it seems!
This is the Lux Radio Theatre adaptation of one of director Alfred Hitchcock’s most revered films. Young Charlie lives in a quiet California town. A visit from her charismatic uncle brightens her world —until his increasingly unsettling behavior hints at a dangerous secret.
Get ready for an amazing in-person event that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat! Shadow of a Doubt is all about mystery, excitement, and unforgettable moments. Come hang out, meet cool people, and dive into an experience you won’t forget. Don't miss out!
Get your tickets HERE!
Paranormal Investigations at Dunham Tavern
Are you eager for a closer look at Dunham Tavern? Since 1824, Dunham Tavern has seen many people come and go during its time as a home to multiple families and stagecoach stop that welcomed travelers from near and far. Step inside after hours, learn the history of Dunham, use paranormal equipment, and experience this historic Cleveland property in an entirely different way. These sessions are hands-on paranormal investigations rather than traditional ghost tours. You will investigate the museum alongside Stephanie Pitz of Haunted Havens. Pitz is a psychic medium (and House Psychic of Farrar Elementary, owned by Sam and Colby of YouTube fame).
Use paranormal investigation equipment, participate in different techniques and experiments, and learn along the way. Beginners are welcome, so guests do not need any previous paranormal investigation experience. Sessions are $55/person. Two sessions available, evening and late-night. Attendees may sign up for one or both sessions. Children 13 and up permitted with a parent or guardian also in attendance.
Get your tickets HERE!
The Lantern Theatre: A Chrismas Carol
An old tradition made new in the Dunham Barn-- a one-hour reading of Mr. Dickens’ masterwork will be accompanied by hot cocoa, cider, baked goods and Christmas cheer and will be followed by Christmas carols sung by all. Come celebrate the season!
Get your tickets HERE!
Radio on the Lake Theatre: The Day the Earth Stood Still
A Live Radio Play Performance presented by Radio on the Lake Theatre:
Get ready for an electrifying live show as ROTLT brings The Day the Earth Stood Still to life in person!
Set in the Cold War during the early stages of the nuclear arms race, a humanoid alien visitor comes to Earth accompanied by a powerful robot to deliver an important message that will affect all of humanity.
This in-person event promises an unforgettable experience full of energy and creativity. Don’t miss your chance to witness this incredible show live and be part of something truly special!
Get your tickets HERE!
Radio on the Lake Theatre: Destination Freedom Part 2
A Live Radio Play Performance presented by Radio on the Lake Theatre:
Destination Freedom Part 2 is a continued exploration of the work of pioneering playwright Richard Durham.
Destination Freedom was a weekly radio series produced by WMAQ in Chicago, first airing on June 27, 1948. Created by African-American journalist Richard Durham, the program highlighted the lives and accomplishments of prominent African Americans such as George Washington Carver, Satchel Paige, Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, and Lena Horne. Once again, ROTLT will present an evening of stories from this legendary program.
This in-person event promises an unforgettable experience full of energy and creativity. Don’t miss your chance to witness this incredible show live and be part of something truly special!
Get your tickets HERE!
Radio on the Lake Theatre: Casablanca
A Live Radio Play Performance presented by Radio on the Lake Theatre:
Dive into the magic of Casablanca with this live radio play—just like the old days, but right in front of you!
This beloved story unfolds in WWII-era Morocco, where American expatriate Rick Blaine runs a café that becomes a crossroads for refugees, officials, and intrigue. When a former love reenters his life with her Resistance leader husband, Rick faces a choice between personal happiness and a greater cause.
Get ready for a night of drama, laughs, and classic charm with Casablanca performed live on stage like you've never seen before! This in-person event brings the magic of old-time radio right to the theater, mixing nostalgia with a fresh twist. Join us for an unforgettable evening where you’ll feel like you’re tuning in to the golden age of radio. Don’t miss out on this unique experience – it’s all happening live, just for you!
Get your tickets HERE!
Radio on the Lake Theatre: Gentlemen’s Agreement
A Live Radio Play Performance presented by Radio on the Lake Theatre:
Step back in time and catch the thrilling live radio play of Gentlemen's Agreement—old-school vibes, big drama!
A widowed journalist adopts a Jewish identity to investigate antisemitism in postwar America. His undercover work leads to encounters with prejudice both blatant and subtle, testing his relationships and ideals.
This in-person event brings the magic of classic radio drama to life with engaging voices, sound effects, and a cozy atmosphere. Perfect for a fun night out with friends or family who love storytelling done the vintage way. Don't miss this unique experience that's all about nostalgia and great entertainment!
Get your tickets HERE!
The Lantern Theatre: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
Join us in the Dunham Barn as The Lantern Theatre performs Washington Irving’s famous ghostly tale through storytelling and song. Enjoy seasonal treats, baked goods, coffee, and cider!
These performances will include ASL interpretation!
Get your tickets HERE!
Canal History: The Haunting of Cemeteries
A Buried History Days presentation by Canalway Partners
Explore the stories of Canal workers, their working conditions and where they sometimes wound up at the end of their lives
An old saying goes, "There's an Irishman buried in every mile of canal." Building the Ohio & Erie Canal was costly and not just in dollars, but in human capital. Why do we not see these canal workers buried in our local cemeteries? Where are they and why? Join Park Ranger Rebecca Jones to explore the stories of these workers and where they sometimes wound up.
FREE and open to the public; register HERE.
Paranormal Investigations at Dunham Tavern
Are you eager for a closer look at Dunham Tavern? Since 1824, Dunham Tavern has seen many people come and go during its time as a home to multiple families and stagecoach stop that welcomed travelers from near and far. Step inside after hours, learn the history of Dunham, use paranormal equipment, and experience this historic Cleveland property in an entirely different way. These sessions are hands-on paranormal investigations rather than traditional ghost tours. You will investigate the museum alongside Stephanie Pitz of Haunted Havens. Pitz is a psychic medium (and House Psychic of Farrar Elementary, owned by Sam and Colby of YouTube fame).
Use paranormal investigation equipment, participate in different techniques and experiments, and learn along the way. Beginners are welcome, so guests do not need any previous paranormal investigation experience. Sessions are $55/person. Two sessions available, evening and late-night. Attendees may sign up for one or both sessions. Children 13 and up permitted with a parent or guardian also in attendance.
Get your tickets HERE!
Neighbors in Nature: a Community Celebration
Join us for a community celebration to commemorate the planting of Cuyahoga County’s Oak Tree in honor of America’s 250th, experience the Heritage Trail, tour Dunham Tavern Museum and the Ellner Saltzman Visitor Center, and enjoy live music, tasty fall treats, and togetherness!
We are highlighting a new partnership with the Master Gardener Volunteers of Cuyahoga County. The Master Gardener Volunteer Program is part of Ohio State University Extension and is dedicated to promoting research-based horticultural education, environmental stewardship, and community service.
Free and open to the public! Registration encouraged, but not required. Addition parking in the Cleveland Foundation lot at the corner of E. 66th Street and Chester Avenue.
Music in the Barn: Minchae Kim
Born in South Korea, Minchae Kim began playing the violin at the age of seven. She gave her concerto debut at age nine with Jeonju Philharmonic Orchestra and debut recital at age fourteen in Kumho Art Hall as a Kumho Young Artist. She has won numerous competitions in South Korea and performed with orchestras including Jeonju Philharmonic Orchestra, Moldova Radio Symphony Orchestra, and Gimpo Philharmonic Orchestra. Minchae received her B.M., M.M, and G.D. at the New England Conservatory under Miriam Fried, Donald Weilerstein and Soovin Kim. Minchae is recent graduate of the Cleveland Institute of Music, studying under Jaime Laredo.
FREE and open to the public. Registration is encouraged, but not required.
Paving the Path Forward: the 2026 Summer Soiree
Join us for an unforgettable evening at Dunham Tavern Museum & Gardens’ annual Summer Soiree, to “Pave the Path Forward!” As we gather to celebrate, we proudly introduce our new Heritage Trail—a thoughtfully designed walking path that invites visitors to explore the natural beauty and rich stories woven throughout our grounds.
Nestled within vibrant greenspace, Dunham Tavern stands as a cherished historic treasure, connecting past generations to the present. This year’s event highlights not only the preservation of our museum but also our commitment to creating meaningful experiences for the future. The Heritage Trail symbolizes growth, accessibility, and a renewed dedication to welcoming all who seek to learn, reflect, and connect.
The Summer Soiree offers an elegant evening of community spirit, engaging conversation, and support for a place that holds deep cultural significance. Your attendance or sponsorship of the Soiree helps sustain our mission to preserve history while expanding opportunities for education and engagement. Together, we can honor the legacy of Dunham Tavern while paving a bright and lasting path forward!
Sponsorships and tickets AVAILABLE NOW!
The Summer Stop
THIS WEEK: Music from the Indigo Affair and food from Dawg Bowl Cajun food truck.
Enjoy live music and food trucks on 2nd and 4th Wednesdays this summer on the Dunham grounds! Pack a picnic lunch or check out a rotating variety of local food truck vendors. The Museum will also be open for extended hours and special programming.
Open to everyone! Rain location in Dunham Barn.
The Summer Stop
THIS WEEK: Music from Blue Velvet Ensemble and BO’s Smokey Sticks food truck.
Enjoy live music and food trucks on 2nd and 4th Wednesdays this summer on the Dunham grounds! Pack a picnic lunch or check out a rotating variety of local food truck vendors. The Museum will also be open for extended hours and special programming.
Open to everyone! Rain location in Dunham Barn.
Leo Performing Arts presents: Dutchman
by Amiri Baraka (formerly LeRoi Jones), Directed by Dr. David L. Moody
Sunday's matinee will now feature a post-show talk with Peter Lawson Jones, Terrence Spivey, and Director David L. Moody!
Amiri Baraka’s Dutchman, directed by Dr. David L. Moody will run at Dunham Tavern Museum & Gardens from August 7 through August 9, 2026. Presented in arrangement with Concord Theatricals.
Curtain times are 7 p.m. Friday & Saturday, and 2 p.m. Saturday & Sunday. Seats are available for each performance at just $20 per person. TICKETS HERE.
Dutchman is a one-act play written by Amiri Baraka (formerly known as LeRoi Jones) and first performed in 1964. It is a provocative and confrontational work that explores themes of racial identity, oppression, and the complexities of interracial relationships in America.
The Summer Stop
THIS WEEK: Music from GS Harper and food from Dawg Bowl Cajun food truck.
Enjoy live music and food trucks on 2nd and 4th Wednesdays this summer on the Dunham grounds! Pack a picnic lunch or check out a rotating variety of local food truck vendors. The Museum will also be open for extended hours and special programming.
Open to everyone! Rain location in Dunham Barn.
Colonial Cooking
Join us for a Colonial cooking demonstration!
Enjoy a taste of the past as you learn about how people cooked and what they ate. Teacher and historic foodways enthusiast Elizabeth Greco will prepare some early American recipes and discuss some of the major changes in cooking and baking of the time period. Attendees will get to sample the items made. Outdoors, weather permitting or in the Barn in the event of rain.
This event is FREE and open to the public, but space is limited and REGISTRATION is required. This presentation is part of the Downtown Cleveland Museums celebration of America 250.
The 1976 Bicentennial in Cleveland
The 1976 Bicentennial in Cleveland presented by Leo Covault
50 years ago, the United States celebrated its 200th anniversary. Presenter Leo Covault will examine the celebration in the Cleveland area, including findings from oral history interviews. He will also explore how the bicentennial shaped politics, culture, and the history of America.
This presentation is part of the Downtown Cleveland Museums celebration of America 250. Registration is encouraged, not required.
Garden Walk Cleveland
Dunham Tavern Museum & Gardens will be participating in this year’s Garden Walk as part of the Hough neighborhood on July 11. Find maps and more information HERE.
The Summer Stop
THIS WEEK: Music from Ted Darden and food from His & Hers food truck.
Enjoy live music and food trucks on 2nd and 4th Wednesdays this summer on the Dunham grounds! Pack a picnic lunch or check out a rotating variety of local food truck vendors. The Museum will also be open for extended hours and special programming.
Open to everyone! Rain location in Dunham Barn.
Cleveland History Days: Dunham Tavern Museum & Gardens OPEN FOR TOURS
Join us for a tour!
Free museum tours; no advance registration required. This event is part of Cleveland History Days, a week-long celebration of our city’s rich legacy presented by Canalway Partners. Learn more and see the full schedule of events and participating organizations at https://clevelandhistorydays.com .
The Lantern Theatre: Declaration Exploration
A Reading of the Declaration of Independence, with excerpts from Poor Richard's Almanac and hits from the 1700s. The Lantern Theatre is dedicated to producing theatre for the whole family that reveals and celebrates the history of our region, state, and country.
Performances offered both Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, June 28 --tickets are limited, make your reservation today! Get your tickets HERE.
This event is also presented as part of Cleveland History Days, a week-long celebration of our city's rich legacy presented by Canalway Partners. Learn more and see the full schedule of events and participating organizations at http://clevelandhistorydays.com.
Cleveland History Days: Dunham Tavern Museum & Gardens OPEN FOR TOURS
Join us for a tour!
Free museum tours; no advance registration required. This event is part of Cleveland History Days, a week-long celebration of our city’s rich legacy presented by Canalway Partners. Learn more and see the full schedule of events and participating organizations at https://clevelandhistorydays.com .
Cleveland History Days: OPEN FOR TOURS and Historical Cooking Insights with Elizabeth Greco
Join us for a tour of the Museum and educator and historian Elizabeth Greco will be on site in period costume, talking about early settler recipes and cooking methods with samples to share!
Free museum tours; no advance registration required. This event is part of Cleveland History Days, a week-long celebration of our city’s rich legacy presented by Canalway Partners. Learn more and see the full schedule of events and participating organizations at https://clevelandhistorydays.com .
Juneteenth Celebration
Juneteenth: Celebrating Our Stories and Neighborhood
Hosted by our Hough Neighbors, Juneteenth returns to Dunham this year with a fabulous lineup of live performances, vendors, food, and fun for the whole family!
This event is FREE and open to the public, but REGISTRATION is encouraged. Guests are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets.
Volunteer Planting Day
CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS!
Saturday, May 30, 10:00 am
We are replanting the newly renovated Klein Butterfly Garden on Saturday, May 30 and we need your help! Come, bring a shovel, and help us get a truckload of new plants in the ground. Lunch is on us!
If you would like to participate, please email lauren@dunhamtavern.org or give us a call at (216) 431-1060.
PROGRAM CHANGE: Women in History presents Lucy Stanton
PROGRAM CHANGE: Lucy Stanton will be visiting instead of Cassie Chadwick!
Lucy Ann Stanton Day Sessions was born October 16, 1831 in Cleveland Ohio. She, along with her stepfather John Brown the barber, were very active on the Underground Railroad helping freedom seekers in Cleveland. Lucy was one of the first black woman to graduate from Oberlin College. She was president of the Oberlin Women’s Literary Society. She was asked to deliver the graduation speech which was entitled “A Plea For The Oppressed.” She was a champion for civil, social and political rights.
Women in History is a local group of actresses who portray notable American women from our country's history. Robin Echols Cooper is a storyteller, performing and visual artist. Robin grew up on a small farm in Chardon, Ohio where she enjoyed listening to songs and wonderful stories. She has been writing and sharing stories all of her life. Robin received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications with minors in art and theater from Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. She has been telling stories professionally since 1992. Ms. Echols Cooper’s unique style takes you on an animated journey as she weaves tales from around the world.
Free and open to the public, registration not required but encouraged.
Raptors of Northeast Ohio
Presented by Matthew Valencic of the Audubon Society of Greater Cleveland
Raptors are birds that get their food by hunting other birds or mammals. We know them as Eagles, Hawks, Falcons and Owls. Some live here year-round while others visit only during the winter. Enjoy pictures and natural history of the 19 species typically found in NE Ohio throughout the year.
FREE and open to the public, registration not required by encouraged.
2026 Soup Supper
Bring a dish to share to this potluck-style gathering featuring the perfect cold weather dish, SOUP! There will be ham, salads, bread, dessert, and beverages too. Our evening also includes entertainment!
This event is now free of charge, but registration and a potluck contribution are required. Register by completing this FORM, or by calling the Museum at 216-431-1060.
The Lantern Theatre: A Christmas Carol
An old tradition made new in the Dunham Barn-- a one-hour reading of Mr. Dickens’ masterwork will be accompanied by hot cocoa, cider, baked goods and Christmas cheer and will be followed by Christmas carols sung by all. Come celebrate the season!
Tickets $20; $10 for 18 +under
Get your tickets HERE!
The Lantern Theatre: A Christmas Carol
An old tradition made new in the Dunham Barn-- a one-hour reading of Mr. Dickens’ masterwork will be accompanied by hot cocoa, cider, baked goods and Christmas cheer and will be followed by Christmas carols sung by all. Come celebrate the season!
Tickets $20; $10 for 18 +under
Get your tickets HERE!
Holiday Open House
Open house tours of the Museum, refreshments, and live music in the Barn!
FREE and open to the public!
Candlelight Gathering
Experience a magical time when the Museum is decked out in seasonal splendor. This special tradition returns this December--featuring an open bar, heavy hors d'oeurves, and festive Irish music. Valet parking provided.
Tickets $65 for members; $75 for non-members
Get your tickets HERE!
Music in the Barn: Minchae Kim
Born in South Korea, Minchae Kim began playing the violin at the age of seven. She gave her concerto debut at age nine with Jeonju Philharmonic Orchestra and debut recital at age fourteen in Kumho Art Hall as a Kumho Young Artist. She has won numerous competitions in South Korea and performed with orchestras including Jeonju Philharmonic Orchestra, Moldova Radio Symphony Orchestra, and Gimpo Philharmonic Orchestra. Minchae received her B.M., M.M, and G.D. at the New England Conservatory under Miriam Fried, Donald Weilerstein and Soovin Kim. Minchae is recent graduate of the Cleveland Institute of Music, studying under Jaime Laredo.
FREE and open to the public. Registration is encouraged, but not required.
The Lantern Theatre: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
Join us in the Dunham Barn as The Lantern Theatre performs Washington Irving’s famous ghostly tale through storytelling and song. Enjoy seasonal treats, baked goods, coffee, and cider!
These performances will include ASL interpretation!
Get your tickets HERE!
John Brown: the Dulcimer Diaries
Book by Treva Offutt
Music by Craig Matis
Lyrics by Craig Matis and Treva Offutt
The institution of slavery divided our nation between those who owned slaves and those who believed that it was a sin against God. There is a deep parallel between the political polarization of the mid-1800's and the issues that are being addressed in our country today. While the reasons for this current division are different than they were in the 1800's, the reality is that this nation is polarized along political lines.
"John Brown: The Dulcimer Diaries" will focus on this division through the eyes of John Brown, his life, and the events that led him to the raid on Harpers Ferry in 1859. While Brown is the main subject of this musical/radio play, the many people, black and white, who supported and influenced him in his battle against slavery will have their stories told, as well.
This production is supported in part by a grant from the Ohio Arts Council.
$20/person; 18 and under $10/person

