Maumee Indoor Theater

Toledo’s jazz scene, while not the only great music in town, is frequently credited for creating a passage for other kinds of music. “The fact that jazz is known in the Toledo area opens up the fact that Toledo enjoys varying kinds of music,” says Jeff Birdwell, booking agent and show coordinator for the Glass City Opry, a local group that showcases the best of bluegrass.

 

“For us to bring a bluegrass venue into town wasn’t that far of a stretch.”

And so they have since August 2007. Regional and national bands take center stage every month at the Maumee Indoor Theater.

“Our venue is absolutely awesome,” says Birdwell of the restored art-deco structure. “It’s kind of a marquee venue for the Toledo area in general.” The theater, built in 1946, was renovated and reopened in 2004 and is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Between the cool location and the funky bands, Birdwell promises that bluegrass lovers will be hooked after just one listen. “It’s a great show and well worth the trip and the price of admission,” he says.

Tickets are $10 per performance or $50 for six purchased in advance. Throughout 2009, the Glass City Opry will donate 10 percent of monthly door profits to a Toledo-area charity or community organization. Check out the April 13 show, featuring Coal Town from Kentucky, with Roy Cobb and the Coachmen from Michigan opening, and contribute to a good cause at the same time. For more information, visit www.glasscityopry.com.

Maumee Indoor Theater,
601 Conant St., Maumee 43537, 419/897-8902.

View more of our melodic tour of Toledo in Sweet Music.