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Join us for this exciting lecture by Joseph Rubin, American Musical Production's Executive Director, about the Broadway musical, "Dearest Enemy," that opened in Akron 100 years ago. Please register.
Please register in person, online, or by phone at 330.643.9030.
Whether you are a Broadway enthusiast, a history buff, or simply intrigued by Akron's rich cultural heritage, this event promises to be an unforgettable experience.
As Akron commemorates its Bicentennial, there is no better way to celebrate the city’s vibrant artistic heritage than by exploring one of Broadway’s hidden treasures. Join the Library for an engaging lecture on the history, creation, and restoration of "Dearest Enemy," the first musical comedy by Rodgers and Hart, which premiered in Akron a century ago. This presentation will highlight the Akron Beacon Journal's acclaim for the production, calling it “the biggest theatrical innovation on record here in the past 100 years.”
Led by the esteemed Rubin, this multimedia lecture will transport you through the fascinating story of "Dearest Enemy"—from its Broadway debut to its enduring impact. Discover rare recordings from the original cast, never-before-seen photographs, and artifacts from the show’s initial run. Attendees will also enjoy an exclusive look at a 1955 television adaptation of the musical.
Contact the Special Collections Division for more information at 330-643-9030 or speccollections@akronlibrary.org.
Save the date! In celebration of Akron's Bicentennial, the Library will host a live performance of "Dearest Enemy" at the Goodyear Theater on June 21, 2025. For more information about upcoming Akron Bicentennial events, check out the website, https://akron200.org.
Main Library, located in the heart of downtown Akron, combines compelling public space with meaningful and relevant public library services for all members of our community. Since opening in 2004, the downtown library welcomes more than one million visitors each year.
Subject divisions include: Business, Government & Science, Culture & AV, Magazines & Newspapers, Special Collections (local history & genealogy), TechZone@Main, Teen, and a 12,000 square feet Children's Library.
Special services available at Main Library include: a Patent & Trademark Resource Center; U.S. Passport and Notary services; a Microbusiness Center; a Maker Space; a resource lab for early childhood educators; and regularly scheduled computer training classes. Also available at Main Library are more than 125 public access computers, color photocopiers/printers, laminating, scanning, faxing, and free Wi-Fi.
Specialized spaces include a 425-seat auditorium, public meeting rooms, and a used bookstore. An interior glass block walkway leads to a 600-space parking garage owned by the City of Akron. An outdoor amphitheater and landscaped park complete the complex.
60 South High Street
Akron, Ohio 44326
330.643.9000
Our Mission: The Akron-Summit County Public Library provides resources for learning and leisure, information services, meeting spaces, and programs for all ages that support, improve, and enrich individual, family, and community life.
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