April in Findlay, OH, promises to be a cultural feast, as the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts hosts a series of events showcasing diverse artistic expressions. From classical opera to soul-stirring jazz, and dynamic choral concerts to mythical explorations, there's something for everyone. Whether it's supporting the Chance to Dance Foundation, enjoying the U.S. Army Jazz Ambassadors, or getting captivated by mythical beasts, this month-long celebration of the arts is set to inspire and entertain audiences of all ages.

Celebrating Diverse Arts: An April of Enriching Performances in Findlay

Join us for a series of captivating events hosted by the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts. From the award-winning musical 'Come From Away' to the delightful family gathering 'Rise and Shine,' this season promises a vibrant tapestry of performances. Experience the harmonious blend of the University of Findlay's Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble, and relive the golden days with a tribute to ABBA and the Bee Gees. Engage with celebrated poet Maggie Smith, groove to Matt Andersen's electrifying tunes, and dance through 'Boogie on the Block.' Dive into art, culture, and community at its finest.

Musical Wonders and Cultural Celebrations: Unveiling 2025's Must-Attend Events

Get ready to kick off the summer with the return of Boogie on the Block, Findlay's biggest block party! Join us on Friday, June 6, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM at the Roman-Jebitt Festival Grounds (MCPA Parking Lot) for an unforgettable evening of live music, delicious food, and fun for all ages.

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Boogie on the Block

The Center for the Performing Arts

When Matt Andersen steps on stage, he brings a lifetime of music to every note he plays. His latest album, The Big Bottle of Joy, is all about hard-won celebration; a dozen songs infused with raw blues-rock, rollicking Americana, thoughtful folk, and ecstatic gospel. Andersen’s stage presence is informed by decades of cutting his teeth in dusty clubs, dim-lit bars, and grand theatres all over the world, delivering soulful performances that run the gamut from intimate to wall-shaking. In the studio, he’s always brought the same attention to detail and commitment to craft as he has to his live show, and the result - a multi-faceted and poignant body of work - has led him to amass over 28 million streams on Spotify and 26 million views on YouTube.

Matt Andersen

Marathon Center for the Performing Arts

New York Times Bestselling Author and award-winning poet Maggie Smith is the author of You Could Make This Place Beautiful, multiple collections of poetry, collections of essays about writing and creativity, and a children’s book, My Thoughts Have Wings. This event is free, and is made possible by The Community Foundation, VisitFindlay, and MCPA.

Author Talk with Maggie Smith

Step into a dazzling tribute show that celebrates the timeless music of ABBA and the Bee Gees, where nostalgia and electrifying performances collide. As the lights dim and the crowd buzzes with excitement, the stage comes alive with iconic hits like “Dancing Queen” and “Stayin’ Alive.” Talented performers don vibrant costumes reminiscent of the ’70s, capturing the essence of these legendary bands. The harmonies soar as the audience is transported to a disco inferno, swaying and singing along to beloved classics that have transcended generations. From the infectious melodies to the captivating choreography, every moment is crafted to evoke the joy and energy that defined an era. As the show unfolds, the audience is treated to a seamless blend of ABBA’s catchy pop anthems and the Bee Gees’ soulful ballads. Heartfelt renditions of “Mamma Mia” and “How Deep Is Your Love” resonate throughout the venue, creating an atmosphere of unity and celebration. The performers engage with the crowd, encouraging them to join in the fun, creating a communal experience that feels like a reunion of friends. With dazzling light displays and expertly choreographed dance numbers, this tribute show is a heartfelt homage to the music that continues to inspire and uplift. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to these legendary sounds, the magic of ABBA and the Bee Gees is sure to leave you dancing in your seat and reminiscing about the golden days of pop music.

The Ultimate Tribute to the Bee Gees & ABBA Ft: One Night Only and Super Trooper

The University of Findlay Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble will join to present their annual May concert. The bands will be under the direction of Dr. Wes King, Director of Bands at the University of Findlay.

Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble Concert

Join us on Saturday, May 3, for Rise and Shine, a morning full of fun for the whole family! Kick off the first Saturday in May with a variety of engaging activities and a delicious breakfast provided by Baker's Cafe.

Rise and Shine

Broadway’s COME FROM AWAY is a Best Musical winner all across North America!

Come From Away

The University of Findlay Orchestra is a string ensemble composed of students, staff, and community players. The orchestra will be under the direction of Madeline Damschroder of the University of Findlay.

Orchestra Concert

University of Findlay

A musical act from the FUTURE, performing with MILLION DOLLAR acts from the PAST and bringing it all together for you right here in the PRESENT.

Million Dollar Time Machine

Weaving together modern and traditional styles of bluegrass and americana, Never Come Down is a Portland, Oregon based 5-piece composed of Joe Suskind (guitar), Crystal Lariza (vocals), Brian Alley (banjo), Kaden Hurst (mandolin), and Ben Ticknor (bass). Their dedication to thoughtful songwriting and dynamic arrangements highlight polished technical skills and a commitment to listening to each other. Formed in 2018, the band’s self-titled debut arrived shortly thereafter, and their second album “Better Late Than Never” was released in 2021. They’ve toured internationally and have found acclaim from festivals and venues such as Iceland Airwaves, John Hartford Memorial Fest, Americanafest, FreshGrass and RockyGrass.

Never Come Down

Unveil a myriad of dark secrets and come face to face with some of the most magnificent monsters and terrifying beasts ever to walk the earth. Discover the colossal Stone Troll, the mysterious Indrik and Japanese Baku; the Tooth Fairy (not as sweet as you'd think), an adorable Unicorn and majestic Griffin. Take your place among legendary heroes, just don't wake the Dragon…

Dragons and Mythical Beasts

Join us for a FREE Blues Workshop and jam session. The facilitators will give a structured lesson to learn the 12 bar blues, through hands on facilitation, as well as, audio and video samples. The workshop will culminate with a group jam session playing the blues.

Let's Play the Blues

The University of Findlay Choirs, under the direction of Dr. SeaHwa Jung, will present a captivating concert titled "Colorful Love," featuring a rich selection of choral works celebrating the theme of love. The program will highlight diverse and heartfelt love songs, with the Wapakoneta High School Choir, directed by Marissa Lewis, joining the university choirs on stage for this special performance

George and Shirlee Whitson Spring Choral Concert: Colorful Love

Apostle Jones is a dynamic, soul band 9-person ensemble that bends styles and genres to create a uniquely collaborative energy and sound. Pulling from collective influences of rock, R’n’B, blues, gospel, and funk, the Apostles soar with original music and a contagious joy for their hometown Cleveland, OH. Apostle Jones features Mikey Silas (lead singer), Michael Haburay (guitar), Owen Brodhead (keys), Jinari Kemet (guitar/bass), Sebastain Mango (bass), Rashon Blake (drums), Bria Miller (vocals), Love Freely (vocals), Charlie Wilson (tenor sax), Eric Levine (trumpet) and Max Schlenk (alto sax). They unite audiences with the music, positive vibes and gratitude, leaving crowds jonesing for more.

Apostle Jones

The Jazz Ambassadors is the official touring big band of the United States Army. Formed in 1969, this 19-member ensemble has received great acclaim at home and abroad performing America's greatest original art form, jazz.

U.S. Army Jazz Ambassadors

Join us for Family Fun Day on Sunday, April 6! Enjoy a captivating performance of Toledo Opera’s Opera On Wheels production of Beauty and the Beast, based on Jeanne-Marie LePrince de Beaumont’s timeless French fairytale. Follow Belle as she embarks on a magical journey to rescue her father, discovering courage, compassion, and the true meaning of beauty along the way. With enchanting music inspired by the operas of André Ernest Modeste Grétry, this family-friendly adaptation will delight audiences of all ages. The day also features interactive activities designed to inspire creativity and bring families together. Don’t miss this unforgettable experience!

Toledo Opera's Opera on Wheels: Beauty and the Beast

The UF Jazz Ensemble presents an afternoon of traditional jazz and contemporary music. The ensemble will be under the direction of Dr. Wes King, Director of Bands at the University of Findlay.

Jazz Ensemble Concert

Pointe of the Evening is the annual fundraiser for the Chance to Dance Foundation, dedicated to raising awareness of the dance arts and culturally enriching northwest Ohio.

Pointe of the Evening

It’s a dark and stormy night at the VFW hall where everyone has gathered for the Annual Birthday Bash to pay homage to Edwin S. Lowe, the founder of Bingo. In this madcap musical, old friendships will be tested, Bingo cards will be filled, and secrets will be revealed. You might even win a prize when the audience plays along on their own Bingo cards! Don’t miss Bingo! The Winning Musical by Michael Heitzman, Ilene Reid, and David Holcenberg.

Bingo! The Winning Musical

The son of a small-town farming community, Cody Diekhoff logged plenty of highway and stage time under the name Chicago Farmer before settling in the city in 2003. Profoundly inspired by fellow Midwesterner John Prine, he’s a working-class folk musician to his core. His small-town roots, tilled with city streets mentality, are turning heads North and South of I-80.

Marathon Center for the Performing Arts

Jun 6, 2025

Boogie on the Block

May 15, 2025

Matt Andersen

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Marathon Center for the Performing Arts