Key West is known for its sunsets, fishing, watersports, food, authors and night life. Another big part of Key West is our theaters. Almost like an "Island Style Broadway" feeling. We have many talented local actors and actresses as well as many who come in from other areas. The mixture of locals and well known professional performers gives Key West a great theatrical variety. Here are some of the great theaters here on the island.
My favorite is the Waterfront Playhouse. Located in historic Mallory Square for over 75 years, this 150-seat theater has been a vital part of the cultural fabric of Key West. The programming is dynamic, engaging and highly entertaining with a wide range of performance genres including comedies, dramas, musicals, new works and fare for family and children. And for a post-show meal or libation, there are many great options to choose from in this popular location.
Although it is a movie theater and not live entertainment the Tropic Cinema is as much a part of the Key West entertainment as anywhere. Voted “Best Cinema in Florida” by the readers of Florida Monthly Magazine, the Tropic Cinema brings cutting edge independent and popular movies to Key West. The Tropic features state-of-the- art theaters, lounge area and concession stand that serves popcorn, candy, ice cream and savory snacks as well as beer and wine.
Although I personally find it more a tourist attraction than a theater, the Tennesse Williams Fine Arts Theater (TWFAC) has been providing residents and visitors world- class entertainment for nearly 30 years. Located on the campus of The College of the Florida Keys, the Tennessee Williams Fine Arts Center is home to Keys Chorale, Paradise Big Band, Key West Pops Orchestra, South Florida Symphony Orchestra and In The Cabaret.
I like the San Carlos because it is as much about Key West history and the Cuban culture as it is about theater shows. Founded in 1871 as a civic center by Cuban exiles, the San Carlos today is a multi-cultural center for performing arts and events as well as a museum, library and art gallery. The San Carlos can accommodate over 350 people in its theater and plays host to the Key West Film Festival and the Key West Literary Seminar each year.
The Fringe not only offers great shows but also provides acting classes and auditions for up and coming performers. Located in the old Armory the Fringe has a lot of history to the building as well as the great shows that go on inside. Legend has it that the concept of a "fringe theater" was born in 1947 when eight theater groups, unable to gain admission to the prestigious Edinburgh International Festival, performed anywhere they could. Today hundreds of Fringe Theater Festivals and thousands of Fringe Theater companies exist throughout the world. In 2011, Fringe Theater Key West joined those ranks! They follow the tradition of fringe theatrical troupes by being a “point of entry” into the theater world for people who use it.
The Key West Theater has a been believed to be haunted for years and is a stop on some of Key West's Ghost Tours. There are also office spaces rented in the building. I once had an office there and I liked to walk through the theater section and walk down to the stage. Just don't tell anyone on me. The Key West Theater is a newly-renovated performing arts center that presents original plays, musicals, films, concerts and more. Originally built in 1848 as the 1st Baptist Church of Key West, the building has a rich history as a church, dance club and concert venue prior to being transformed into a fully working performing arts center.
The Red Barn Theatre is not only a premiere location for awe-inspiring performances, but it’s also a historical and cultural hub. Red Barn’s history includes iconic figures such as Poet Laureate Richard Wilbur, Tennessee Williams, Jimmy Buffett and Shel Silverstein, the beloved children’s writer. For the past 32 years, the Red Barn Theatre staff has been premiering new scripts, reworking classic pieces, and encouraging artistic excellence among the Key West community. Red Barn is a therter I put in the same group with Tennesse Williams Theater as a tourist attraction, they do put on some great shows.
When you're in Key West be sure to add seeing a show into your itinerary. We have some great theaters, actors and shows. Key West has always been known as an artist town and our performing arts are great. I hope to see you at a show.
Gary
Gary McAdams, PA
