As of March 13, 2026, Fort Pierce is buzzing with excitement as city officials are on the brink of finalizing an agreement with VenuWorks for the management of the beloved downtown Sunrise Theatre. This move promises to breathe new life into a venue that has struggled with profitability since its reopening in 2006. The management of the Sunrise Theatre will be a pioneering endeavor for VenuWorks, marking their first venue in Florida among the 65 they manage across 28 communities.
The proposed agreement, which is pending City Commission approval, would see VenuWorks take charge of the theatre’s operations, encompassing everything from programming and marketing to customer relations and food-and-beverage services. Importantly, the city will retain full ownership of the theatre and remain responsible for capital improvements, ensuring that local interests are safeguarded.
Financial Framework and Community Focus
VenuWorks is set to charge a base fee of $7,000 per month, which will increase annually with inflation, along with a 10% cut of food-and-beverage revenue. The city will put forth an upfront payment of $4.6 million, which aligns with previous expenditures on the theatre. In a significant commitment to improving the venue’s offerings, VenuWorks will also invest at least $50,000 in food-and-beverage equipment, which will become city property upon installation.
During recent meetings, VenuWorks has presented a comprehensive management program focusing on financial transparency and operational support, which has garnered positive feedback from commissioners. They plan to enhance the theatre’s food and beverage services through in-house management led by an executive chef, aiming to elevate the overall patron experience.
Community Engagement and Programming
One of the crucial aspects of VenuWorks’ approach is to attract diverse programming and events, including children’s programming and community events. This aligns with the city’s goal of engaging local communities, particularly underrepresented groups. Commissioners have emphasized the importance of diversity in programming to draw in a broader audience and to ensure that community feedback plays a significant role in shaping the theatre’s offerings.
Ryan Matthews from GrayRobinson provided updates on state legislative activities that could impact Fort Pierce, including appropriations and municipal utilities, highlighting the interconnectedness of local governance and community culture. The city’s recent proclamations, such as Irish American Heritage Month and Flood Awareness Week, further illustrate the commission’s dedication to community involvement and cultural recognition.
Looking Ahead
The City Commission has yet to vote on the agreement with VenuWorks, but there appears to be strong support among its members. This change comes at a critical time for the Sunrise Theatre, which has faced challenges in attracting profitable events. With plans to broaden the variety and quality of events, there is hope that the theatre will not only survive but thrive, benefiting the entire Fort Pierce community.
As Fort Pierce continues to explore avenues for economic growth, including discussions on infrastructure and airport expansion, the future looks promising. The collaboration with VenuWorks could be a significant step towards revitalizing not just the theatre but the cultural fabric of the city as a whole. For more details, you can read the full article from TCPalm here.
To stay updated on the latest developments from Fort Pierce, including the upcoming community events and initiatives, check the full meeting video on Swagit. Together, these efforts highlight the commitment to fostering a vibrant community and supporting local arts and culture.
For those interested in learning more about Fort Pierce’s ongoing projects and initiatives, further information can be found in various local resources, ensuring that residents remain well-informed and engaged.