What began in 2018 as a plan by Florida Studio Theatre in downtown Sarasota to build a parking structure has morphed into an expansion to accommodate the recent growth of FST and secure its long-range future.
If all goes as scheduled, thanks in part to a new $4 million challenge grant from Ed and Susan Maier, work will begin by the end of the year on what is now a gravel parking lot on First Street next door to FST to build the Florida Studio Theatre Arts Plaza. The plaza, a $57 million project, is planned as a multi-use theater, parking and residential complex.
The Maiers seeded the campaign to name the Arts Plaza in honor of longtime patrons and Sarasota area philanthropists Dennis and Graci McGillicuddy. Dennis McGillicuddy is also president of the FST Board of Trustees.