WINTER PARK, Fla. – The Winter Park City Council is gearing up for a pivotal decision Wednesday that could shape the future of the city’s arts scene. Council members will vote on whether to purchase the building that houses the Winter Park Playhouse, a move that would set the stage for a significant expansion of the beloved theater.
For over two decades, the Winter Park Playhouse has been a cornerstone of the local arts community, renowned for its professional musical theater productions. Drawing nearly 30,000 visitors annually and contributing close to $2 million to the local economy each year, the Playhouse is more than just a theater — it’s an economic and cultural engine.
Dr. Judith Marlowe, board president of the Winter Park Playhouse, highlighted the organization’s commitment to serving the community during an interview.
“We serve the community not just here but out in the community by taking performance classes to underserved children in schools and nurseries and to senior retirement communities all for free. Our aim is to uplift everyone in our community,” Marlowe said.
The proposed expansion comes at a crucial time for the Playhouse, which faces the expiration of its lease. Purchasing the building would ensure the theater’s permanent home and allow for growth to meet increasing community demand.
Funding for the expansion would come from Orange County’s Tourist Development Tax dollars and contributions raised by the Playhouse itself.
“The expansion is part of actually saving the theater because we’ve lost our lease. We need a permanent location here or elsewhere,” Marlowe explained. “With the expansion, we’ll be able to serve more members of the community and also attract individuals from outside the community.”
The plans include additional seating, updated facilities and expanded rehearsal spaces. These improvements promise not only to enhance the visitor experience but also to create new opportunities for local talent and deepen the Playhouse’s connection to the Winter Park community.
Marlowe expressed gratitude for the support of Orange County leaders.
“We are so grateful to Mayor [Jerry] Demings and the Orange County Commission for recognizing that tourist development tax money could support cultural and arts assets that draw tourists to this community. This grant benefits citizens without requiring their financial tax money to support us,” she said.
If approved, this project could mark a new era for the Winter Park Playhouse, solidifying its role as a cultural hub and economic driver for the city.
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