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A Stage for the Community: St. Petersburg City Theatre

Experience live community theater at St. Petersburg City Theatre, the oldest continuously operating community theater in Florida, offering diverse performances and youth programs since 1925.

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The St. Petersburg City Theatre, a beacon of community theater, has been entertaining audiences since 1925, making it Florida's oldest continuously operating community theater. Located on 31st Street South, this volunteer-driven theater offers a diverse program, including main stage productions, youth programs, and little theater events. From its humble beginnings as the Sunshine Players to its current role as a cultural hub, the theater has a rich history of providing opportunities for self-expression and fostering a vibrant arts community. The theater's intimate setting and dedicated performers create a welcoming atmosphere for theater enthusiasts of all ages. Experience the magic of live performance and support local talent at this treasured St. Petersburg institution.

A brief summary to St. Petersburg City Theatre

Local tips

  • Check the theater's website for the most up-to-date show schedule and special events, as programming varies throughout the year.
  • Arrive early to secure parking, especially for popular shows, as the theater's lot can fill up quickly. Street parking is also available in the surrounding area.
  • Consider making a donation to support the theater's mission and help ensure its continued success as a vital part of the St. Petersburg arts community.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    For those using public transportation, the PSTA Route 18 bus towards 34th Street South stops near the theater. From downtown St. Petersburg, head to the Central Avenue bus stop and take Route 18. Check the PSTA website or app for the most accurate schedule and real-time updates. A single ride fare is $2.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    If arriving by taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft), simply provide the address, 4025 31st St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33712, as your destination. A ride from downtown St. Petersburg typically costs between $10 and $15, depending on traffic and demand.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 4025 31st St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33712. Limited parking is available in the theater's parking lot. If the lot is full, street parking is available on 31st Street South and the surrounding residential streets. Be mindful of parking restrictions and time limits. Parking is free.

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Discover more about St. Petersburg City Theatre

Founded in 1925 as the Sunshine Players, St. Petersburg City Theatre boasts a rich history deeply intertwined with the cultural fabric of St. Petersburg. This community theater has evolved through several names, including the Players Club and St. Petersburg Little Theatre, before adopting its current name in 2011. Throughout its nearly 100-year history, the theater has remained committed to its mission: to promote and create local theater dedicated to teaching and training non-professional artists of any age. In its early years, the Sunshine Players, a group of 20 members from the St. Petersburg Women's Club, staged performances at Mirror Lake Junior High, selling tickets for a mere 35 cents. As the theater grew, it acquired a building on 19th Street and Second Avenue North, with trade unions donating their labor to build restrooms, a stage, and footlights. During World War II, the theater provided respite for servicemen stationed locally, offering them a chance to participate in and enjoy shows free of charge. In the 1950s, the theater found its permanent home on 31st Street South, becoming one of the first facilities in the Tampa Bay area built specifically as a theater. The opening production in the new space was 'Teahouse of the August Moon' in September 1958. The 1960s brought further expansion, including the theater's first musical, 'The Pajama Game,' and a major renovation of the space. The Academy at City Theatre was established in 2007, expanding youth and adult programming with a focus on arts education. Today, the Academy offers classes for youth ages 7-14, and Theatrical Teens of Tomorrow was launched in 2020 to serve high school students ages 14-18. St. Petersburg City Theatre is known for its live community theater excellence. The theater typically stages multiple mainstage productions each year, showcasing a variety of genres from classic plays to contemporary works. These productions are entirely volunteer-driven, providing opportunities for local actors, directors, and crew members to hone their skills and share their passion for theater with the community. In addition to mainstage productions, the theater hosts little theater events in its lobby, offering a more intimate and experimental performance space. These events are often free or donation-based, making them accessible to a wide audience. The theater's youth programs are a cornerstone of its mission, providing young people with a chance to explore their creativity, develop their talents, and build confidence through theater arts. These programs include acting classes, workshops, and performance opportunities, nurturing the next generation of theater artists and enthusiasts. St. Petersburg City Theatre also offers adult education workshops, providing opportunities for adults to learn new skills, explore their artistic interests, and connect with fellow theater lovers. Attending a performance at St. Petersburg City Theatre is an immersive experience. The theater's intimate setting creates a sense of connection between the performers and the audience, drawing viewers into the world of the play. The dedication and passion of the volunteer cast and crew are evident in every performance, making each show a unique and memorable event. Whether you're a seasoned theatergoer or a first-time attendee, you're sure to find something to enjoy at this community gem. As St. Petersburg City Theatre approaches its 100th anniversary, it remains a vital part of the city's cultural landscape. The theater's commitment to providing opportunities for self-expression, fostering a vibrant arts community, and offering quality entertainment has made it a beloved institution for generations. A recent hurricane damaged the roof of the building, but the theater is determined to continue its mission. With its diverse programming, dedicated volunteers, and welcoming atmosphere, St. Petersburg City Theatre is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the magic of live performance and supporting local talent.

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