The 600 Block icon is getting a makeover. For months, residents have eagerly watched progress on the historic State Theatre. The revitalized music and arts venue will be a fully activated spot for revelry, relaxation, cocktails and conversation. The shared vision of real estate broker Kevin Chadwick, and operating partner Brandon Huskins, and realized by the prolific Boyd Construction and Creative Arts, will make the music venue an integral part of St. Pete’s future. That vision begins with a new name. Goodbye State Theatre; Hello Floridian Social Club.
So, what’s in a name?
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“As we enter a new decade and complete the renovation we wanted to update the name and look alongside the physical upgrades,” said Operations Partner Brandon Huskins. “The idea was to go back in time to the 1920’s. We are proud to be from St. Pete and as more people move into the area, we’re all proud to be Floridians. The name should speak to locals and all of our visitors throughout the country.”
Huskins is a St. Pete native, and owner Kevin Chadwick is a third generation St. Petersburg resident. Turning this venue into a arts and entertainment beacon is a dream realized for the pair.
A revved name, and a fresh look represent a new era for the historic venue. The 600 Block itself has been in transition for years. New concepts like Central Melt, Brutique, Cider Press, The Lure, and Pacific Counter have made it a food and drink haven. An active music venue will help further stimulate traffic to the hubs once it’s open to the public.
What inspired the new logo design?
“We are still a concert venue, the guitar is an ornamental art deco style,” notes Huskins. “The logo type face is an ode to the Floridita, a famous Hemingway hangout and a look back at the historic Florida Theatre where Elvis once played downtown.”
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the Floridian Social Club has managed to stay involved in St. Petersburg’s music scene. The venue has hosted several concert live streams with local bands. It’s a perfect reprieve for the times we’re living in now. Follow the venue on Instagram and its website for updates on concerts.
The original structure was built in 1924, and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1991. The 8,000+ square foot venue could fit up to 800 people — and once open should serve as a destination for some of the biggest names in music, in addition to a home for local musicians to perform.
An exquisite cocktail program developed my Niall McCourt, who many will remember from his time as director of Spirits at Mandarin Hide, will also make the venue a staple in the ‘Burg’s craft cocktail scene.
While the venue is designed for major concerts, but lounge nights will be held Tuesday through Thursday, so locals can drink in the brand new aesthetic.
Here’s the team behind The Floridian Social Club:
- Kevin Chadwick – Operating Principal
- Brandon Huskins – Operating Partner
- Niall McCourt – Director of Beverages
- Jenny Holla – Events Director
Who’s ready to enjoy exquisite shows at this iconic venue when it opens at 687 Central Avenue? Let us know in the comments!
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