2026 SEASON SPONSORS ART AND SHERRI STEHLIK
It all started with a picnic table鈥r rather, the lack of picnic tables at Porthouse Theatre.
One day in the early 2000鈥檚, Terri Kent, artistic director of Porthouse Theatre, was walking around the grounds introducing herself to new theatregoers. Terri struck up a conversation with Art Stehlik, the topic of which turned to picnic tables on the Porthouse Theatre grounds and the shortage of places for patrons to sit to enjoy a meal before the show. Shortly after the introductory meeting between the two, a number of picnic tables were delivered to the Porthouse grounds, generously donated by Art.
For almost twenty years, Art and Sherri Stehlik have been proud supporters of Porthouse Theatre. But their connection to the theatre goes beyond that of a typical donor. The Lakewood, Ohio natives come to multiple shows during the summer season, bringing friends and family. And in return, they鈥檝e become part of the Porthouse Theatre family.
The Stehlik鈥檚 first met in 1979 at work, first knowing each other as colleagues. Fast forward many years, they reconnected. In 2009, when Art and Sherri were planning their nuptials, they asked if they could be married at Porthouse Theatre. Terri Kent officiated their wedding on stage, which was set up for the production of 鈥淭he Odd Couple,鈥 with their reception held in a pavilion on the grounds. During a 2016 production of 鈥淪ister Act,鈥 Art transitioned from audience member to cast member, having a walk-on role as the Pope, surprising his family with his pontifical position.
The Stehlik鈥檚 are passionate about helping others and giving back, donating to multiple arts and non-profit organizations in the Northeastern Ohio community.
The Porthouse Theatre 2026 season is sponsored by Art and Sherri Stehlik.