BUNNELL, Fla. — It felt like a family reunion on Saturday as Flagler Playhouse President Jerri Berry welcomed guests through the doors of the newly rebuilt theater. While smaller than its predecessor—which once seated hundreds—the new black box theater offers an intimate 50-seat capacity. Judging by Saturday’s enthusiastic turnout, ticket sales are expected to be strong as loyal patrons return to the beloved venue.
The house was packed for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, with everyone from families and cast members of The Penguin Project to Kiwanis Club members, long-time board members, and actors from across the theater’s decades-long history.
Past President Pat Love, who led the organization for ten years, stood alongside former board member Nancy Howell and actress Kathryn Weed to celebrate the reopening.
“Very happy that they’re up and functioning,” said Love. “I hope it becomes bigger and better and gets back to what it was—and what it meant to the community, which was really important. I’m sure the community has missed it.”
“I think it is wonderful that we are still operating,” added Howell. “I’ll put it that way. I don’t know what the future will bring, but I hope we have a future. This is a beginning. I was here when we bought the place.”
Weed, taking in the new space, praised the updates: “It looks like a beautiful stage, actually. It’s really wonderful. I just want it back to its bigger size again.”
For decades, Flagler Playhouse has served as a cornerstone of community theater, nurturing performers of all ages and fostering the next generation of local talent. That legacy was abruptly interrupted on October 29, 2023, when a fire severely damaged the building—just days before the opening of the fall season. The loss was deeply felt throughout the Flagler arts community.
Now, the new venue stands as a symbol of resilience and a commitment to preserving the arts in Flagler County. Speaking to the crowd before the ribbon was cut, Berry shared a message of gratitude and optimism.
“Coming out of the ashes, only good things arise, and I see a bright future for all of us,” she said. “Thank you. We could not do it without all of your support.”
The season will open on September 26, 2025 with On Golden Pond. For information and tickets, visit www.flaglerplayhouse.org.
