The Woodward Theater, built in 1913 as a theater in the Beaux-arts style, opened as a silent film house. It was named in honor of William Woodward, who purchased the land the theater sits on in 1796.
In 2013, after 3 solid years of making MOTR one of Cincinnati's best small live music venues, the owners were on the hunt for a bigger room to grow into.
THEY HAD TO LOOK NO FARTHER THAN ACROSS THE STREET
2013, the 100th Anniversary of the Woodward Theater
Gazing out the window across Main St, they recognized that the Woodward was not living up to its full potential and saw an opportunity. With a little luck, a lot of support and tons of work they were able to buy the theater and began a year-long renovation, bringing the Woodward into the 21st century by installing new energy-efficient HVAC, electrical and plumbing systems. Perhaps most importantly, a brand-new stage was built, the curve of which imitates the original orchestra pit that still lies below. The doors were opened once again to the community as a formal events and performance space, and to this day continues to be an asset to Cincinnati's music and arts community.
About the neighborhood
OTR was settled by Cincinnati's first-wave of German immigrants, who christened the dirt upon which they build befitting the land from which they came. Why "Over-the-Rhine?" Because the area lay to the north of a canal...to them, it was the river Rhine.
The neighborhood was subsequently home to Appalachian and Southerners, looking for a better life in the industrialized north. Those ancient cultural legacies remain in Over-the-Rhine, in its bloodlines and its architecture. The neighborhood contains the largest continuous historical district of Italianate buildings in the world, most of which are more than a century old.
Old-world architecture has drawn a new generation of residents and businesspeople to the neighborhood, creating a renaissance on every block. Main Street, in particular, has a spirit of its own in this spirited neighborhood. With its strong history of art, beer and nightlife and its do-it-yourself attitude, Main Street lacks the corporate, antiseptic vibe that often overtakes a gentrifying area. Businesses on Main are locally owned; a customer can in most instances walk into a shop and find the owner behind the counter.
ADA Statement:
The Woodward Theater is ADA-compliant, including ADA-compliant entry and bathrooms. Seating is always available, and there are two metered handicap parking spaces within 50 feet of our main entrance. We recommend emailing any special requests before attending a show or event. We'll be happy to accommodate.
The Woodward does not discriminate on the basis of disability in its programs, services, activities, and employment practices.
MOTR Pub and Woodward Theater Diversity and Inclusion Statement
We strive to promote a fun and safe environment that allows everyone -- staff, patrons, managers and owners -- to thrive. We will continue to collaborate with staff and our peers to provide a formal approach to diversity and inclusivity, access, and equity. We will also continue to transform our environment into a place where everyone is welcome and all can thrive and grow as they recognize their value in an ever-changing world. Similarly, we are tolerant of the divergent views of our MOTR Pub and Woodward Theater guests and customers.