.🎬 From Silver Screen to Spotlight: The Storied Journey of Eustis Plaza Theatre to Hideaway Performing Arts Center
- John Lucey
- May 23
- 3 min read
Nestled in the heart of Eustis, Florida, a building that once echoed with the voice of Frank Sinatra has become a time capsule of entertainment history. If walls could talk, the Eustis Plaza Theatre would have quite the story to tell - one filled with classic films, country music, and multiple rebirths.
🎥 It All Began in 1968…
Constructed by the Spears Construction Company of Eustis at a cost of $130,000, the Eustis Plaza Theatre opened its doors on December 26, 1968, under the banner of Shopping Centers Theaters, Inc. The grand opening featured Sinatra’s gritty crime film Lady in Cement, drawing in locals for just 50 cents for kids and $1.25 for adults — plus a special loge smoking area for $1.40 (yes, that was a thing!).
🍿 A Classic Movie House Evolves
Originally a single-screen movie palace, the 1970s brought changes: the theater transformed into the Eustis Plaza Twin Theaters, becoming a two-screen venue and eventually changing hands from SCT to Floyd Theaters.
By the 1980s, it had earned its reputation as a beloved second-run “dollar theater”, offering affordable entertainment to generations of moviegoers.
🎞️ Carmike Cinemas & The Final Reel
In March 1995, national chain Carmike Cinemas purchased the theater and gave it a short-lived revival, screening first-run films like Crimson Tide with prices starting at just $3 for kids and $5 for adults. But the revival was brief — just months later, prices were slashed again, and the theater returned to second-run features.
The last films to grace the screens were Primal Fear and James and the Giant Peach in July 1996, after which the projectors showed no more.
🎤 From Film to Live Music: Florida Sunshine Opry
In January 2000, the building took on new life as the Florida Sunshine Opry, bringing a touch of Nashville-style country music to Lake County. Local musicians, bluegrass lovers, and country fans gathered here until the venue closed once more around 2012.
🎭 A New Era Begins: The Living Drama Theatre
In July 2019, the curtain rose yet again — this time for The Living Drama Theatre, a live performance venue that brought southern charm and original productions to the Eustis community, beginning with the heartfelt comedy Southern Fried Funeral.
🎟️ Theatre 1901: A Nod to the Past, a Stage for the Future
Theatre 1901 emerged as a bold new creative space in Eustis. The Eustis Plaza Theatre saw a name change honoring the city's long-standing arts heritage. Theatre 1901 quickly became known for its original works, independent showcases, and edgy community-driven productions. Whether it’s an intimate play or experimental performance, this venue was a short stop in the evolution.
🔦 Hideaway Performing Arts Center: Where the Spotlight Shines in Eustis
Today, the spirit of live entertainment lives on stronger than ever at the Hideaway Performing Arts Center - Opening in 2024 as Eustis’s newest hub for live music, comedy, and theatrical magic. Hideaway Performing Arts Center opened with a bang and produced its first season of stage productions. The opening season included "Picasso at the Lapin Agile" by Steve Martin, "A Christmas Carol" adapted by Jim Quinlan, "A Dog's Life" by Sean Grennen and Leah Okimoto, and finishing the season with "The Importance of Being Earnest" by Oscar Wilde.
✨ What’s Next for This Historic Eustis Landmark?
From classic cinema to second-run screenings, toe-tapping opry nights to dramatic live theater, the Eustis Plaza Theatre has transformed again and again - always finding a way to bring the community together.
As local interest in historic Florida theaters, Eustis performing arts, and live entertainment venues in Lake County continues to grow, one thing’s for sure: this building isn’t done shining yet. With a full lineup of exciting shows, a vibrant performance space, and a newly launched full bar courtesy of The Courtyard, Hideaway Performing Arts Center invites audiences to rediscover the joy of a night out. It’s not just a venue - it’s where Eustis comes alive.
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