Last Updated on March 3, 2024
The historic Beach Theatre is a venue in St. Pete Beach that has recently changed ownership and plans to reopen in 2025.
The theatre originally opened in January of 1940, making local history as the first movie theater that had both sound and air conditioning in Pinellas County.
Known for presenting independent and international films, the Beach Theatre in St. Pete Beach was recognized as a premier arthouse movie theater.
A pillar in the community, the landmark became a place for local artists to create and showcase their work.
Theatre Closure and the Beginning of Renovations
In 2007, Michael France Jr., a Hollywood screenplay writer, purchased the Beach Theatre. Unfortunately, France’s health declined in 2012, and the theatre stayed closed for about a decade.
In August of 2021, The Beach Theatre was purchased by Scott Commercial Holdings.
The landmark theatre has been focusing on renovations to achieve its vision of being an inclusive space for the community.
The theatre planned to show newly released independent and international cinema and classic repertory programming.
Under New Ownership
On February 29, 2024, the Beach Theatre was purchased by Hannah Hockman and her family.
“The reopening of The Beach Theatre isn’t just about watching movies—it’s about celebrating tradition, fostering community, and preserving the magic of nostalgia for generations to come.”
— Hannah Hockman, Director
Flashback: Judy at 100 Film Series
Despite ongoing renovations, in June of 2022, the historic Beach Theatre in St. Pete Beach began coming back by hosting a film series titled “Judy at 100.”
Judy at 100 was an outdoor summer movie series hosted by the City of St. Pete Beach.
The film series paid homage to the legendary actress Judy Garland, who would have been 100 years old on June 10, 2022. The film series showed iconic movies starring Judy Garland as a tribute to the star’s birthday.
The summer event marked the first time since its closure in 2012 that The Beach Theatre was showing movies again – albeit at Horan Park.
Update on the Beach Theatre Renovations
Almost two years have passed since the Judy at 100 Film Series, and the Beach Theatre has not yet reopened.
Prior to Hannah taking ownership, the renovation included turning the building into a mixed-use venue with an expanded bar.
A new stage would allow the theatre to host a variety of live performances in addition to film screenings.
While 2025 is the new reopening date at this time, the Beach Theatre renovations are ongoing, with plans for the venue to once again be a beloved pillar of the local community.
More Information on the Beach Theatre
Most likely, the renewed Beach Theatre will operate as a non-profit and rely on donations and continued patronage to remain open.
For more information, visit the Beach Theatre’s official website.
In addition, you can keep up with the latest updates on the official Beach Theatre Facebook page.
Beach Theatre Address: 315 Corey Ave, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706
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