Ohio State Mansfield Theatre Announces Free Outdoor Performance of “Meet Johnny Appleseed” on September 25

MANSFIELD — The Ohio State University at Mansfield theater season kicks off with a free, one-night-only outdoor event to celebrate the 250th anniversary.^th Johnny Appleseed’s birthday.

• Date and time: Wednesday, September 25 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• Location: Grant & Mary Milliron Research Wetlands and classroom at The Ohio State University in Mansfield

The Ohio State University at Mansfield is pleased to announce the upcoming Chautauqua-style program Meet Johnny Appleseed! with veteran artist Hank Fincken. This program is a community collaboration between the Ohio State Mansfield Theatre, the Richland County Public Library in Mansfield and the Children’s Theater Foundation.

Actor Hank Fincken will play the beloved American born on September 26, 1774. Meet Johnny Appleseed! will be presented in the Grant & Mary Milliron Research Room, in the wetlands and classroom behind Reidl Hall at Ohio State Mansfield, on Wednesday, September 25 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. (In case of rain, the venue will be Conard Recital Hall, a few feet inside Riedl Hall.)

Mary Frankenfield, MRCPL Assistant Director, shared her excitement about the project: “We are thrilled to once again join forces with our valued community partners, the Ohio State Mansfield Theatre and the Children’s Theater Foundation, to present an engaging and educational program in the university’s picturesque outdoor classroom. Celebrating the 250th birthday of Johnny Appleseed, a key figure in Ohio and Mansfield history, this event honors his enduring legacy and brings his story to life in a meaningful way for all ages. We look forward to sharing this special occasion with our community.”

Joseph Fahey, director of the campus theatre program, added that this type of programming would not be possible without the support of Friends of the Theatre and enthusiastic community partners like the library and the Children’s Theatre Foundation.

Level parking is available near the outdoor classroom space, and no tickets are required for this free event. Seating is available, but the public is also encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs and picnic-style food and beverages. Indoor restrooms are available nearby. If you have any questions, please contact [email protected] or 419-755-4045.