Founded in 1973, FST has grown to a village of five theatres located in the heart of Downtown, Sarasota. Each theatre is small in size and large in impact — providing intimate and engaging settings for high-quality, professional performances. Today, FST has established itself as a major force in American Theatre. FST is the largest subscription theatre in the state of Florida and among the largest in the country,* serving more than 230,000 live attendees each year across its diverse programs: Mainstage, Cabaret, Stage III, Children’s Theatre, FST School, New Play Development, and FST Improv. Even with its growth, Florida Studio Theatre remains firmly committed to making the arts accessible and affordable to as many people as possible. Under the leadership of Producing Artistic Director Richard Hopkins, FST develops theatre that speaks to our living, evolving, and dynamically changing world. Hip and historical, entertaining and challenging, we are the theatre where the street meets the elite — where everyone is welcome to engage in the art of theatre.
THE HISTORY OF SIESTA KEY
Siesta Key was formed out of sands from the Appalachian Mountain. Before becoming a beloved tourist destination, it was a quiet island used primarily for fishing and farming. The Tocobaga and Calusa Native American tribes originally inhabited the area. European settlers arrived in 1846 when Captain Louis Roberts built his home on the island.
Today, Siesta Key maintains its charm and natural beauty, blending a strong sense of community with diverse attractions, shops, and dining options. Renowned for its award-winning beaches, the island invites visitors to enjoy its unique mix of tranquility, culture, and local flavors.