Clague Playhouse Community Theater

Clague Playhouse Community Theater

Overview

The Clague Playhouse in Westlake, Ohio, is a community theatre with a longstanding local legend of a resident ghost known as "Walter." Reports of unexplained noises, moving objects, and sensations of being watched have been part of the theatre's lore since at least the early 1980s. While some members attribute these occurrences to the spirit of a former property owner, others remain skeptical.

Location

• Address: 1371 Clague Rd, Westlake, OH 44145
• City/County: Westlake / Cuyahoga County
• Public Access: Yes – for theatre events and performances

Haunting / Legend Summary

• The ghost, nicknamed "Walter," is said to be the original owner of the property where the theatre now stands.
• Unexplained occurrences include misplaced objects later found in unusual places, crashing sounds, moving ladders, and thrown objects.
• Feelings of being watched are commonly reported, especially in certain areas such as the cellar, attic, and lobby.
• Activity appears to increase when permanent changes, such as installing shelves or costume racks, are made to the building.
• One notable incident involved a teacup being thrown across the attic without any visible cause while a member was cleaning and organizing.
• In another incident, a stepladder and paint pan fell without spilling significant paint, leading to a verbal outburst directed at "Walter."
• After extensive renovations in 1991 following burst pipes, reports of activity significantly declined.

Historical Background

• The Clague Playhouse began as a barn, and the theatre group moved into the building in 1967.
• At the time of the move, conditions were rustic, with chickens still in the rafters.
• The attic has served multiple purposes over the years, including hayloft, office space, and light booth.
• Renovations over the decades have significantly altered the structure, most notably following water damage in 1991.

Reported Phenomena

• Apparitions: N/A
• Cold Spots: N/A
• Voices/EVPs: Unexplained noises, including sounds resembling rocks hitting the building.
• Physical Touches: Not specifically reported, though members report feelings of being watched.
• Object Movement: Misplaced items later found in unusual places; objects such as teacups thrown without visible cause; ladder and paint equipment moved.
• Malfunctions: N/A
• Poltergeist Activity: Activity consistent with poltergeist reports, especially related to moving or throwing objects.
• Shadow Figures: N/A
• Time Anomalies: N/A

Skepticism & Alternative Explanations

• Misplaced objects may be the result of human error, particularly in a busy theatre environment where props and tools are frequently moved.
• Structural sounds from the aging building, thermal expansion, or settling may account for reported noises.
• Sensations of being watched could be attributed to psychological suggestion, especially in dimly lit or enclosed spaces.
• The connection between building changes and increased activity could be a perceived correlation rather than causation, influenced by heightened awareness during renovations.
• No verifiable evidence has been presented to confirm the existence of "Walter."

Visitor Information

• Visiting Hours: Dependent on theatre performance and event schedule
• Fees or Costs: Standard ticket prices for performances
• Contact Info: (440) 331-0403
• Warnings/Restrictions: None specific to paranormal reports; normal theatre safety rules apply.

Citations / References

• Woodyard, Chris. Haunted Ohio III.