The Hanna Theatre opened in 1921 as part of the booming theater district in downtown Cleveland. It was developed by businessman Daniel Hanna, son of the prominent political figure Marcus Hanna. Designed as an elegant playhouse, the theater quickly became a centerpiece of live performance in the city, offering Broadway productions, comedies, and dramatic works to a growing urban audience.

During the early twentieth century, Cleveland was experiencing rapid industrial growth and cultural expansion. The Hanna Theatre reflected this prosperity with its grand architecture detailed interior design and comfortable seating. It was known for its intimate atmosphere compared to larger movie palaces, making it a favorite venue for legitimate theater productions.

As the decades passed, the theater faced the same challenges as many historic venues across the country. The rise of film, television, and suburban entertainment caused attendance to decline. By the late twentieth century, the Hanna Theatre had fallen into disrepair and struggled to maintain its role in the entertainment industry.

Efforts to preserve Playhouse Square gained momentum in the 1970s and 1980s, saving several historic theaters from demolition. The Hanna Theatre became part of this revitalization movement, although it would take decades before a full restoration could be completed. Community support and investment played a major role in bringing the building back to life.

A major renovation was completed in 2008, transforming the Hanna Theatre into a modern performance space while preserving its historic charm. Today it is home to Great Lakes Theater and continues to host live productions year round. The theater stands as a symbol of Cleveland's dedication to preserving its cultural and architectural history.

Like many historic theaters, the Hanna Theatre has developed a reputation for unexplained activity over the years. Staff and performers have long shared stories of strange occurrences, especially during quiet hours when the building is mostly empty. Theaters are often believed to hold emotional energy from countless performances, and this location is no exception.

One of the most common stories involves footsteps heard on the stage or in the balcony when no one else is present. Actors rehearsing late at night have reported the sensation of being watched from the darkened seating area even when the theater is completely empty. These moments are often dismissed at first, but repeated experiences have kept the stories alive.

Another tale centers around the ghost light tradition, where a single bulb is left glowing on stage overnight. Some claim that shadows move beyond the light or that the bulb flickers without explanation. Theater lore often suggests that ghost lights are meant to appease spirits and prevent mischief from unseen presences.

Employees have also reported hearing faint voices or whispers echoing through backstage corridors. These sounds are often described as distant conversations or laughter that fades as soon as someone tries to locate the source. The acoustics of the theater may explain some of these experiences, but not all who have heard them are convinced.

There are also stories of objects being moved or misplaced only to reappear in unusual locations. Props and equipment have reportedly shifted without explanation, adding to the belief that something unseen may still linger within the theater. Whether these events are tricks of the mind or something more, the Hanna Theatre continues to inspire both curiosity and unease.