The Tampa Theatre opened its doors to the community on Saturday, marking the completion of the first phase of a $24.5 million restoration that returned the historic 1926 venue to its original splendor.
Restoration details
For seven months, Evergreen Construction—known for work on the Capitol Rotunda and international basilicas—performed a meticulous, museum‑level restoration. Paint analysis revealed that many of the theatre’s iconic colors had shifted over a century; the team stripped away decades of dust and repainted the terracotta roofs and interior tiles to match the original palette.
In addition to cosmetic work, the project modernized the theatre’s lighting, sound, and projection systems, ensuring that the venue can host contemporary performances while preserving its historic character. Critical infrastructure, including HVAC and electrical systems, was also upgraded to meet today’s safety and efficiency standards.
Education center and future plans
A new two‑floor education center, featuring dedicated classrooms for film studies, will open this fall. The center is intended to serve students and community members, fostering a deeper appreciation for cinema and the arts.
The restoration is only the first phase of the theatre’s “Second Century Campaign.” Phase two, slated for completion in 2028, will add a third public programming space and restore the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ, further expanding the venue’s cultural offerings.
Community celebration
Doors opened at 1 p.m. for a free community event, allowing patrons to explore the refreshed auditorium, lobby, and new educational spaces. The Oct. 15 Centennial Celebration, already sold out, will follow later this month, highlighting the theatre’s enduring role in Tampa’s cultural life.
“For the first time since 1926, it’s going to look like it did in 1926,” said George Levesque, president and CEO of the Tampa Theatre. “We discovered that what we thought was red was actually blue, and what we thought was blue was actually green. Restoring those details brings the building’s original beauty back to life.”
The Tampa Theatre, a beloved landmark since its opening in 1926, continues to serve as a gathering place for families, film enthusiasts, and the broader community. Its revitalization underscores the city’s commitment to preserving historic assets while providing modern amenities for future generations.
Original reporting: St. Pete Catalyst — read the source article.
