By George Hudak, photos by Dan Fernandez + file photos
Monday morning’s groundbreaking ceremony marked a significant moment for Tampa’s arts community. The event was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Mayor Jane Castor, Hillsborough County Commissioner Harry Cohen, Tampa City Councilwoman and CRA Board Chair Gwendolyn Henderson, Lead Architect Paul Westlake of DLR Group, and Straz Center President and CEO Greg Holland, among many others. A highlight of the ceremony was a captivating performance by the cast of Disney’s The Lion King.
The Straz Center for the Performing Arts, a cornerstone of Tampa’s cultural landscape since it opened in 1987, is on the brink of a transformative expansion. Scheduled to be completed in 2027, this ambitious project is set to redefine the performing arts experience in the city, making Tampa a performance powerhouse.
In the past, the Straz Center has offered performances on the Riverwalk, featuring acts like the THREE VOICES OF JAZZ, Ashley Smith & the Random Occurrence, Absolute Queen, and Sick Hot (Dirty Janes), among other local artists. However, with the new expansion, a permanent stage will become a central feature, allowing for more consistent and diverse free performances right by the river.
This expansion project, funded primarily by private donors, represents an $80 million investment into Tampa’s cultural future. It includes not only the permanent outdoor stage but also a new education building dedicated to dance, theater, and music programs. This development has been years in the making and reflects the Straz Center’s commitment to community outreach and education.
One of the most significant aspects of this expansion is the emphasis on accessibility. The Straz Center’s mission to provide world-class performances to citizens of all incomes will be enhanced with more free performances and expanded community programs. The new space will also feature an outdoor rooftop dining area, adding to the vibrancy of the arts district.
President and CEO Greg Holland emphasized the importance of this expansion, stating, “Without the arts, something vital is lost. The world becomes quieter. Less inspired. Less connected. Less hopeful. Without expression, you lose the fuel that drives progress, empathy, and bold new ideas. That’s why we’re building something extraordinary. This evolution expands our impact and ensures that art continues to thrive.”
The expansion will not only make the Straz Center more beautiful but will also solidify Tampa’s reputation as a center for performing arts. As the center expands to the Riverwalk, it is set to become a key destination for both locals and visitors, celebrating the city’s rich artistic spirit.
