The Oakland Center for the Arts announces its Second Annual Free Open House and Season preview Party on Saturday, August 23, from 6-9 pm. Festivities will be held at the theater, 220 W. Boardman St. in downtown Youngstown. Free parking surrounds the theater.

Guests are invited to mingle with Oakland board members, volunteers, and performers in the Star Gallery. Free food and beverages will be served. Posters from the past 22 years of Oakland productions will decorate the gallery, and photos of past productions and performers will also be available for viewing.

A free performance highlighting the play selections of the 2008-2009 Season will be presented at 7:30 pm. Host Ellen Licitra will narrate the show, which will include performances from Night of the Living Dead, How the Drag Queen Stole Christmas, Bug, Reefer Madness, and Rabbit Hole.

Oakland Season Flexpasses will be available for sale. There is no charge to attend the event. The Open House and Season Preview is the Oakland’s way of saying thanks to all its patrons, past and present. If you’re a loyal Oakland fan or just curious to find out what the buzz is all about, stop by the Oakland on August 23 for a night of friends and fun.

Call 330.718.5515, visit myspace.com/oaklandcenter, or email oaklandopenmic@gmail.com for more information.