The Renaissance Theatre is set to reopen at a new downtown location, following its closure since September due to permitting and fire safety issues. The theatre will relocate to the complex at 54 W. Church Street, previously occupied by the Mad Cow Theatre and Orlando Fringe’s ArtSpace. Donald Rupe, the managing director of the Renaissance Theatre Company, announced the news on Tuesday afternoon.
This new venue is approximately 3.5 miles from the theatre’s original site on Princeton Street near Loch Haven Park. Although the new location is intended to be temporary while the city of Orlando seeks a permanent tenant, Rupe confirmed that the Renaissance plans to operate there until at least the end of March 2024. Two productions are already scheduled, beginning with “The Office Holiday Party Musical Extravaganza Show,” an annual offbeat musical comedy, running from December 5 to 22. Following that will be an extended run of “Mean Girls,” the popular Broadway musical adapted from the 2004 film.
Rupe expressed optimism that the new location and the inclusion of “Mean Girls” could attract a broader audience to the Renaissance Theatre, which typically focuses on original, locally created works. “I think for ‘Mean Girls,’ we might get a different audience,” he said. “This will help us get ahead a little bit.”
The Renaissance Theatre has faced significant financial challenges since city inspectors shut down its previous operations, resulting in a loss of over $500,000. The closure stemmed from complications related to a two-story set designed for the production of “Nosferatu,” which required additional safety measures due to its immersive nature, where patrons walk through the set during performances. Despite the disruptions, the theatre managed to perform at other venues but had to cancel more than 30 performances.
Support from board member Chris Kampmeier and over 350 donors has helped keep the theatre afloat during these difficult times, contributing more than $55,000 to the nonprofit. “While safety has always been a priority for us, we don’t do theater in the traditional way,” Kampmeier stated. “We’re learning now how to work within city code in order to keep a fresh and innovative product.”
City officials have been supportive of the Renaissance Theatre’s temporary move. The city will allow the theatre to use the Church Street space at no cost beyond utilities, which is critical for revenue generation through liquor and concessions. Rupe praised the city’s swift decision, stating, “The commitment to culture in Orlando is evident in how they support the arts community.”
David Barilla, executive director of the city’s Downtown Development Board and Community Redevelopment Agency, noted that the reopening of the theatre will enhance the downtown area, especially during the holiday season. He emphasized the importance of activating the space while the city continues the search for a permanent tenant.
The Renaissance Theatre’s lease for the downtown location extends until the end of March 2024, during which time the staff will assist in preparing the venue for its next tenant. Regardless of whether the company can return to its original building, “Mean Girls” is scheduled to run from January 16 to March 15.
The Church Street complex, which features two theatres, a large lobby, dressing rooms, and office space, has been vacant since Orlando Fringe vacated the premises in February. The prior tenant, Mad Cow Theatre, had occupied the location for about a decade but faced financial disputes with the city.
As the city formalizes its search for a new tenant, Barilla mentioned that they are welcoming proposals from arts organizations. “We’ll share realities of operating the space so they can put together a robust business plan,” he explained.
Looking ahead, Rupe indicated that the permitting issues are nearing resolution and that future immersive productions like “Nosferatu” will undergo a permitting process similar to theme-park attractions. He is also incorporating the theatre’s recent experiences into the upcoming “Office Holiday Party,” which humorously addresses the challenges of corporate celebrations amidst permitting issues.
Tickets for the holiday show are available at rentheatre.com, with tickets for “Mean Girls” expected to go on sale soon. The Renaissance Theatre is eager to navigate this new chapter while contributing to the vibrant cultural landscape of Orlando.
