What once was the Flannigan and Steele Theater in 1927, the Kent Stage is the only remaining downtown theater of its kind in Portage County. The building opened as a movie theater and has entertained audiences in Kent for 82 years. The Western Reserve Folk Arts Association opened up the Kent Stage in 2002 continuing a tradition of providing quality entertainment in Downtown Kent. 

 Since that time, WRFAA has made many improvements to this historic building, keeping it open and available for all to enjoy.  Though primarily a live music venue, The Kent Stage is also home to Children's Musical Theater of Kent, Up From The River Music Festival, Kent State Folk Festival, Kent Blues Fest, Who's Your Mama Environmental Film Festival, Standing Rock International Short Film & Video Festival and civic functions.