Just before its 100th birthday in October, downtown Tampa’s iconic movie theater is getting a big update.
The Tampa Theatre is kicking off a $13.5 million renovation and modernization project that will spruce up both the inside and outside of the historic building. This renovation is part of a $30 million capital initiative called the Second Century Campaign, which aims to enhance and protect the Tampa landmark at 711 Franklin St.
During the construction, the theater’s historic Duncan Auditorium will be closed from March 10 through the end of September, according to spokesperson Jill Witecki.
The Duncan Auditorium is the main entertainment space in the theater, with a star-studded night sky ceiling, an ornate stage and 1,252 seats.
Fans will still be able to catch a film during the renovation. Movies and events will continue through the spring and summer at the John T. Taylor Screening Room, an intimate, 43-seat microcinema that opened in June 2024.
Creative Contractors, the firm behind the Taylor Screening Room, will take on Tampa Theatre’s renovation project. The group was also responsible for historic renovations of St. Petersburg High School, the Capitol Theatre and the Academy of the Holy Names on Tampa’s Bayshore Boulevard.
Outside, the group will bring refreshed building signage, including enhanced lighting and new paint. Inside improvements include an updated concessions area, a new stage truss system, upgraded lighting and audiovisual enhancements, according to a news release.
The first floor will get new restrooms, and the second and third floors will become new educational and archive spaces. The group is also bringing in a specialty plaster restoration contractor to “restore the main Duncan Auditorium to its original grandeur.”