FOLIO
Words by Johvan Merilus
Jacksonville may be known for its beaches and river, but the city’s theatrical scene has created its own reputation: The River City is evolving into an exciting hub for live theater.
FSCJ Artist Series
The FSCJ Artist Series has been bringing nationally touring Broadway shows, musicians, magic and more to town for almost 60 years — bringing the lavishness and extravagance of New York City to the Bold City itself.
Some of the Artist Series’ biggest draws include mega-hits such as “Hamilton,” which would go on to draw record-breaking crowds, and “Wicked,” a phenomenal production that continues to captivate audiences. The 2025 season features iconic productions such as “Les Miserables,” “Mamma Mia!” and “Peter Pan” securing the interests of theater enthusiasts of all tastes.
fscjartistseries.org
Florida Theatre
The former movie house, which opened Downtown in 1927, has turned moving pictures into real-life theater. While it may be better known for its musical acts and comedians (Kevin Hart performed two shows last month. How’s that for top-shelf entertainment?), the Florida Theatre offers theatrical performances with a twist, too, like this season’s “Dirty Dancing in Concert” and “Fraggle Rock LIVE!” The theater is also home to theatrical productions for school age children through Theaterworks, a non-profit dedicated to making touring theater available to students.
floridatheatre.com
Alhambra Theatre & Dining
The nation’s oldest continuously-operating dinner theater (since 1967) has been entertaining guests of all ages with “Broadway-quality shows and a delightful meal.” This season’s offerings include old chestnuts like “West Side Story” and “My Fair Lady” along with more comical offerings such as “Southern Fried Funeral” and “Elf.”
alhambrajax.com
Underbelly
Located in the vibrant Elbow District, Underbelly blurs the lines between music and theater, hosting everything from experimental theater to live musical acts. The venue appeals more so to the younger audience who crave unconventional performances (think sword swallowers and burlesque performers). By fostering a space for alternative and emerging talent, Underbelly expands Jacksonville’s cultural offerings, proving that the performing arts scene isn’t confined to traditional stages.
underbellyjax.com
Community Theater
There is no dearth of local acting talent on the First Coast either, clearly evidenced by the wide range of community theaters in the area including:
The 5 & Dime: the5anddime.org
ABET: abetjax.com
Amelia Community Theatre: ameliacommunitytheatre.org
A Classic Theatre: aclassictheatre.org
The Island Theater: theislandtheater.com
Limelight Theatre: limelight-theatre.org
Lumen Rep Theatre: lumenrep.org
Players by the Sea: playersbythesea.org
Stage Aurora: stageaurora.org
Theatre Jacksonville: theatrejax.com
The Ripple Effect of Jacksonville’s Art Scene
The success of live entertainment in Jacksonville is revitalizing Jacksonville’s performing arts scene. These organizations aren’t just meant to be sites of entertainment but rather cultural institutions that enhance the city.
In addition to bringing in revenue to the community, theatrical productions foster a sense of connection and dialogue. What’s often overlooked in production is how the show goes beyond the concept of entertainment but rather reflects on topics such as race, identity and overall community. It’s power isn’t necessarily glamourizing theatrics but rather sparking conversation through the stories being told.
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