THE HOBBIT
by Greg Banks
adapted from the novel by J.R.R. Tolkien
directed by Erin E. Dolan
December 4, 2025 - January 4, 2026
CLEVELAND Premiere
Run time: 120 minutes
*Includes one 15 minute intermission
Content Advisory: Fairytale Violence, Lighting Effects
Recommended for Ages 7+: You know your children best.
The story
From the smallest beginnings come the greatest legends. Bilbo Baggins would much rather be sitting in his cozy Hobbit Hole with a cup of tea, but when the Wizard Gandalf arrives at his door, this little Hobbit embarks on a magical adventure. Go with Bilbo on a heroic journey as he encounters fearsome goblins, stubborn dwarves, and the legendary dragon Smaug. J.R.R. Tolkien's charming classic is adapted with imaginative stagecraft, making for an epic adventure that is fun for the whole family.
““A triumph of storytelling.””
The Artists
THE PRODUCTION
The RESPONSE
“Dobama Theatre’s THE HOBBIT doesn’t just spark your imagination; it depends on it. Director Erin E. Dolan invites audiences to help picture what can’t fully appear in a 139-seat black box: galloping horses, dozens of characters and creatures, a dragon bigger than the theater itself. The result feels like a bit of stage magic, conjured in real time by everyone in the room….THE HOBBIT shows that a grand story doesn’t need a big stage or a large cast, only ingenuity and trust in the audience’s imagination. As Bilbo learns, even small heroes can do remarkable things. The same goes for theaters like Dobama.” - cleveland.com
"This is definitely the show to gather the entire family for. Children of all ages will marvel at the stage set, costumes, character changes and delightful story of cooperation and friendship. Bring the entire clan and share a wonderful holiday treat as you root for the good guys and boo the bad ones. This is a treasure not to be missed." - Mark Horning
“Dobama’s THE HOBBIT is a Child-Friendly Romp Through Middle-Earth...the show’s production values are incredibly enticing. Ben Needham’s set is a loving homage to the Baggins’ hobbit hole, using arches and carved detailing to construct a nostalgic playing space. Jasmine A. Golphin projects intriguing images and video, including landscapes and maps, onto two round hobbit doors that are used as entrances and exits throughout the show. Lighting designer Maya Michele Fein and sound designer Angie Hayes help bring to life dark, wet caves, caverns filled with gold and forests riddled with scuttling creatures.” - Cleveland SCENE