Venice Theatre Celebrates Progress in Rebuilding After Hurricane Ian

Venice Theatre Celebrates a Major Milestone in Reconstruction

The Venice Theatre, one of the largest community theaters in the United States, is in the process of an inspiring recovery following the destruction caused by Hurricane Ian. On Friday, the theatre reached a pivotal moment with a celebratory event marking the completion of a crucial fundraising phase aimed at rebuilding its main stage, the Jervey Theatre.

On September 28, 2022, Hurricane Ian struck with Category 5 force, devastating the Jervey Theatre—an integral part of the Venice community that had welcomed thousands of patrons. Just two years later, on July 21, 2025, nearly 100 families, dignitaries, donors, and industry partners gathered at the construction site, proudly signing the steel beams that will soon form the foundation of the new venue. As of now, they have successfully raised over $20 million, setting an impressive example of community resilience and commitment to the arts.

Kristofer Geddie, the executive director of the Venice Theatre and the president of the American Association of Community Theatre, expressed the significance of the gathering, stating, "This moment transcends steel and concrete. It's about the people who refused to let the arts vanish from their community." His message resonated throughout the event, reflecting the collective cause of those involved in the reconstruction efforts.

The current campaign named 'Next Act' aims to not only rebuild the Jervey Theatre but also enhance educational facilities for aspiring performers and audiences alike. Through a combination of state funding, local philanthropists, and matching gifts, the campaign is creating a dynamic atmosphere for the arts in Venice.

To bridge the remaining funding gap for the Jervey Theatre, a new summer family match campaign has been launched. The objective is to make further progress towards a projected completion date of June 2026, just in time for AACTWorldFest—an international theatre festival expected to attract upwards of 8,000 visitors. This festival will showcase remarkable productions from different cultures, providing a platform to celebrate the global nature of theatre and the arts.

For more information about the Venice Theatre and ongoing fundraising campaigns, individuals can visit www.venicetheatre.org.

Founded in 1950, the Venice Theatre has become a cornerstone of its community, welcoming over 65,000 patrons each year through live performances, educational programs, and various community initiatives. It operates with the enthusiastic help of more than 1,300 volunteers, showcasing the spirit of collaboration and commitment to enriching the cultural fabric of the area.

The current restoration project, which amounts to $25 million, is seen as a crucial factor for revitalizing not only the theatre itself but also contributing to the local economy, with projected annual impacts reaching approximately $50 million. As the Venice Theatre rises anew from the challenges it faced, it represents not only a beacon of hope for the arts community but also a symbol of perseverance and communal strength.

Ultimately, the rebuilding of the Jervey Theatre stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, support, and the compelling belief that the arts will thrive, irrespective of past adversities. This journey has begun a new chapter for Venice Theatre, inviting both the local community and visitors alike to engage with the vibrant tapestry of performances and educational experiences that await upon the theatre's grand reopening.