Dollar Bank Lobby Series

Pittsburgh Public Theater is launching a new community-driven Lobby Series in the O’Reilly Theater, sponsored by Dollar Bank. This series is built around what you—the community—want to see and experience. This is your chance to help transform the O’Reilly Theater lobby into a lively third place for connection and creativity. Together, we’ll make Downtown feel like home. 

Inaugural Season Lineup

KINSELLAND RADIO 

Thursday, February 27 | 5:00 - 7:00 PM
Presented by Anqwenique (@sopranowing) and DS Kinsel (@dskinsel)
A live, lobby-based radio activation blending music, storytelling, and conversation to amplify regional Black creative voices and community connection.

ART GALLERY POP-UP 

Monday, March 9 | 5:00 - 7:00 PM
A pop-up, lobby-based gallery experience blending installation, live painting, and participatory art-making to showcase works by Jordan Weaver (@coconutcurry_), Bobbie Bonita (@spacedinsideout), and Andrew Spanoudakis (@spacedinsideout), inviting audiences to explore artistic evolution, creativity, and community connection.

LOBBY LIGHTS: SONGS & STORIES 

Wednesday, April 22 | 5:00 - 7:00 PM
Presented by Kelly Dailey (@kellydaileymusic) and L.D.D.
An intimate, lobby-based series blending music and storytelling to spotlight Pittsburgh musicians and foster genuine connection through shared local creativity.

FACES OF THE CITY: LIVE PORTRAIT DRAWING 

Wednesday, April 22 | 5:00 - 7:00 PM
Presented by Faydra Hunter (@ardyaf_art_studios)
A live, lobby-based portrait-drawing activation spotlighting Pittsburgh community leaders and lived experiences. Through public, in-process art-making, the event invites audiences to observe, engage, and connect.

PITT STOP 

May 11-13 | 5:00 - 7:00 PM
Presented by Theatre Sans Serif (@theatre.sans.serif)
A low-stakes scratch night showcasing new and in-progress work by local, under-represented playwrights and artists, offering audiences an intimate look at early-stage development and the chance to provide constructive feedback.

COMMUNITY THEATER SHOWCASE 

Monday, May 18-20 | 5:00 - 7:00 PM
Presented by Caitlin Young
In the spirit of the recently launched GO SEE A SHOW campaign, the Lobby Series hosts a celebration of regional community theaters as anchors that strengthen neighborhoods, local economies, and access to the arts across the Pittsburgh region.

DUQUESNE STUDENT PLAYWRITING SPOTLIGHT 

May 18-20 | 5:00 - 7:00 PM
Presented by Anya Martin
A curated evening of original monologues and short scenes by Duquesne undergraduate playwrights, celebrating emerging student voices, and strengthening connections between campus artists and the Pittsburgh arts community.

Why It Matters

Recent feedback told us you want safer, more inviting reasons to come Downtown, opportunities to connect (attend with new friends), and flexible, low-commitment events that fit into busy schedules.

What We See Happening

• Small-scale, early-evening programs (Mondays–Thursdays, 5-7 PM).
• Events designed by listening to your ideas first, not pre-set plans.
• A mix of art, music, storytelling, and creative experiences that reflect local talent and community interests.

Open Call

Open Call: Submit Ideas online and follow along with our Lobby Series website.