Eckerd College alumnus revitalizes historic Beach Theatre, may re-open by March 2025

Eckerd College alumnus, Hannah Hockman, purchased the historic Beach Theatre along with her parents, Sissy and Ron, and serves as the new director. Originally opening its doors on historic Corey Avenue (315 Corey Ave) on January 15, 1940, the powder blue and bleach-white Beach Theatre has been closed for over a decade. The Hockmans propose a tentative re-opening date of March 2025.

When it went up for auction in 2021, Hannah and her parents were outbid by $2,000, and Scott Commercial Holdings, LLC acquired the property, ultimately re-selling it to Hannah for $1,000,000 last year.

“The reopening of The Beach Theatre isn’t just about watching movies,” says Hannah. “It’s about celebrating tradition, fostering community, and preserving the magic of nostalgia for generations to come.”

Bringing the theatre back, but bigger and better

Nostalgia indeed. Hannah’s parents, Sissy and Ron, spent many-a-date-night at the Beach Theatre in the 80s, Hannah tells me. Everyone involved has skin in the game of revitalizing the Beach Theatre. As a former theatre and marketing major at Eckerd College, peers and faculty have been “so supportive, great mentors of mine,” she says. “I’m trying to bring the Eckerd community in on this.”

Hannah not only wants to revitalize Beach Theatre but also make it bigger and better. While Hannah will honor its legacy as a cinema, the original stage will be expanded. The expansion will open the theatre for larger live shows and performances. The lobby will boast a dedicated cabaret space. Tickets will be sold at the bar, along with beer and wine (they hope—and so do I).

In the interim, there’s still much rough work to do: fix the roof, finish the floor—A/C, vents, dressing rooms, and installing enough seats.

Beach Theatre merch funds revitalization effort

If you are interested in supporting them, instead of donations the Beach Theatre sells merch designed by Ace Muccio via their online store. The proceeds go toward the revitalization effort. Check out the store here. If you are interested in partnering with the Beach Theatre to perform or do shows, Hannah is fielding proposals. Reach Hannah at hhockman@beachtheatre.org.

We’re excited to bear witness as the historic Beach Theatre comes back to life. And we eagerly await the hoisting of the marquis, the illumination of the lights, and letters spelling out the titles of beloved shows.