Franciscan Center

Discover the Franciscan Center, an exquisite, state-of-the-art venue nestled within the picturesque Sylvania Franciscan Village campus in Sylvania, Ohio. This remarkable facility spans over 19,000 square feet, offering a versatile oasis for your gatherings.

Our full-service theater, accommodating 850 enthusiastic patrons, is a premier choice for an array of occasions. From captivating community theater productions to engaging corporate lectures, shareholder meetings, local dance performances, and enriching community lectures, the possibilities are endless.

Immerse yourself in the theater’s capabilities, where you can orchestrate technically demanding performances or host intimate lecture events. Additionally, our center features well-appointed conference rooms, accommodating groups ranging from 15 to 200 attendees. A spacious gymnasium and a charming commons area, ideal for dinners, banquets, fashion shows, and a myriad of special events, await your creative vision.

As a versatile rental facility, the Franciscan Center invites you to bring your dreams to life. Whether it’s a magical wedding reception, a productive meeting, a lively party, an engaging trade show, or an enlightening seminar, our venue can accommodate your unique event needs. Unlock the potential of the Franciscan Center and create unforgettable memories in this exceptional space.

Faculty and staff receive a 10% discount on rental of the Franciscan Center facilities, and Alumni and non-profit organizations receive a 15% discount. In addition to facility rental, the center also provides services and amenities to help make your event a success. Located in scenic Sylvania, it enjoys an ambience and tranquility unlike any other.

Amenities

  • Professional staff of event planners ready to assist you in every aspect of the planning process
  • Business Center available with Internet, phone, and computer access
  • On-site audio visual equipment
  • Full box office services available for ticketed events
  • State-of-the-art, 850-seat theater
  • Executive boardroom with views of our wooded campus
  • Multi-purpose conference rooms
  • Commons banquet hall seating up to 350 guests
  • Your choice of catering service: from our list of approved providers
  • Full bar and beverage services in-house

Conference Center

Board Room Conference Rooms A & B
  • A fully self-contained room
  • Accommodates up to 60 people
  • 4 x 8 board tables
  • Other flexible arrangements
  • Food service amenities in room
  • Restroom facilities in room
  • Handicapped accessible
  • Projection screen/audio/visual
  • Windows with darkening drapes
  • Scenic view of campus
  • Separate entrance
  • Set of two 35 sq. ft. rooms
  • Used jointly, rooms can seat up to 200
  • Used separately, rooms can seat up to 100 – lecture style
  • Banquet style, rooms can seat 50 guests each
  • Movable wall partition
  • Carpeted rooms
  • Flexible set up
  • 60″ or 72” round tables available
  • 6′ or 8′ rectangle tables available
  • Projection screen and audio/visual equipment
  • White boards

Commons

The Commons is the grand arched lobby of our theatre, and provides an ideal setting for any elegant event. It features a built-in bar, arched masonry pillared cloisters, decorative ceramic tile floor, and direct kitchen access for your approved caterer. It sets the tone and ambience for the entire building, and can be used as a lobby for theater-goers and conference attendees. It also doubles as a beautiful setting for banquets, dinners, style shows, fund-raisers, and receptions.

The commons can be used alone, or in conjunction with other areas of the facility.

The commons area will seat up to 350 persons at 72″ round tables for dinners and banquets, and up to 300 when used in conjunction with the theater or other conference events. It is beautifully yet simply adorned, with brick walls and an interior cloister with brick arches.

Theater

In-house technical assistance from our resident technical director is part of every theater rental. Technical crews for the mounting and running of shows are also available.

Behind the scenes: In the audience:
  • Proscenium stage 49 x 35
  • Draperies and velour hangings
  • Black scrim and white cyclorama
  • Full fly loft with 35 battens
  • Computerized lighting system
  • Two follow spots
  • Full sound capabilities
  • Large front projection screen with multimedia projector
  • 9′ Baldwin Grand Piano on stage
  • 2 stage level dressing rooms & 2 large lower level dressing rooms
  • Handicapped accessible
  • 850 seat house
  • Three sections:
    • left
    • center
    • right
  • Computerized sight lines
  • 25 rows stationary seating
  • Fully carpeted floor
  • Front of house staff available
    • Ushers
    • Ticket-takers
  • Handicapped accessible