What is TheatreFor? This one’s for North Pinellas County

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the murmur of conversation often fill the nondescript Clearwater shopping center at 1863 N. Highland Ave. But step inside, and you’ll find something far more compelling: TheatreFor, a rising force in Northern Pinellas County’s cultural landscape. Currently staging Keith Huff’s psychological drama “A Steady Rain,” running through Nov. 22, the company is bringing a level of professional theater to the region that was previously unavailable, offering audiences a chance to experience productions typically reserved for larger cities—at prices they can actually afford. The Straz Center in Tampa and Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater, while excellent venues, often carry ticket prices that can be prohibitive for many families, particularly those in the more rural and suburban communities of North Pinellas, like Dunedin, Tarpon Springs, Palm Harbor, and Safety Harbor. The area's population is a mix of long-time residents and newcomers drawn to the region’s beaches, historic downtowns, and relatively affordable cost of living compared to other parts of the Tampa Bay area.

The Birth of a Dream and Filling a Void in North Pinellas

For years, residents of communities like Dunedin, Tarpon Springs, Palm Harbor, and Safety Harbor had limited access to high-quality, professional theater. While larger venues like the Straz Center in Tampa and Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater occasionally offered touring productions, the smaller, more intimate and artistically driven work often remained out of reach. This realization sparked a desire for something different, something closer to home. By 2024, Graham Jones, a retired software designer and engineer, had been involved in community (volunteer) theater in Pinellas County for decades. Frustrated by the limited options available, Jones and six like-minded friends, including his wife, Shakespearean scholar and longtime drama teacher Dee O’Brien, launched a nonprofit production company called TheatreFor. “I couldn’t find the kind of theater around here that was doing the work I wanted to be involved in,” says the softspoken Englishman. “So I started agitating my friends, lovers and neighbors, until they finally agreed to do it to shut me up.” Jones and his associates believed a void needed filling. “Our goal here is to bring in the best theater we can make to Northern Pinellas. We feel that, apart from us, it’s a bit of a desert for theater.” The founders envisioned a space where artistic ambition wasn't constrained by budget limitations or the demands of large audiences, allowing for more experimental and challenging productions. This ambition arose from a genuine desire to serve a community often overlooked by larger theatrical institutions. The rise of TheatreFor reflects a broader trend of smaller, independent arts organizations seeking to fill gaps in cultural offerings, often driven by a passionate desire to serve their local communities.

Since launching two years ago as an intimate black box space in a nondescript Clearwater shopping center, TheatreFor (1863 N. Highland Ave.) has produced dozens of plays. Its reputation has grown exponentially. The company’s mission is to provide access to theater experiences typically found in larger cities, showcasing a diverse range of works from world premieres to established hits. The current production, “A Steady Rain,” starring Hugh Jackman and Daniel Craig on Broadway, exemplifies this commitment to bringing high-quality productions to North Pinellas. The company’s rapid growth reflects a pent-up demand for sophisticated theatrical programming in the region. The success of TheatreFor highlights the importance of accessible arts programming in fostering a sense of community and enriching the lives of residents.

Finding a Home: More Than Just a Space

The search for a suitable venue proved challenging, with O’Brien recounting frustrating experiences with other theatrical spaces. “Some restrictions, of course we get. But every time we were going to do a show somewhere else, there would be the craziest things. Like there would be an outdoor car show, with horns blaring and music playing. And the bathrooms wouldn’t work because there were so many people using them.” Jones laughs, “The things that people come up with as the owners and operators of theatrical spaces! The rules that they come up with, for you, are nuts.” These experiences underscored the need for a space where artistic vision could be prioritized without unnecessary interference. The challenges highlighted the difficulties faced by smaller theater companies in securing suitable performance venues, often battling restrictive rules and logistical hurdles. The lack of dedicated, affordable performance spaces is a common challenge for arts organizations in the Tampa Bay area, often forcing them to rely on unconventional or less-than-ideal locations.

The solution arrived in the form of a 3,000-square-foot storefront previously occupied by Meraki, a solar panel installation company. “There was a big open space that we could do something with,” Jones recalls. “It already had ADA bathrooms, and the landlord was amenable to ripping out the drop ceiling.” The transformation of the space was a labor of love, involving significant renovations to create dressing rooms, a lobby, and a functional performance area. Walls were moved to create spacious dressing rooms and a lobby, and essential theater lights and sound equipment were purchased. The resulting space seats 54 patrons, fostering a close connection between performers and audience. This intimacy allows for a more immersive experience for both the actors and the audience, creating a unique and memorable theatrical event. The adaptability of the space is crucial, allowing TheatreFor to stage a wide range of productions, from Shakespearean romances to contemporary dramas. The renovation process itself reflects the dedication and resourcefulness of the TheatreFor team, demonstrating their commitment to creating a welcoming and functional space for artists and audiences alike.

A Shakespearean Legacy: Dee O’Brien’s Impact

Dee O’Brien’s passion for Shakespeare has been a defining element of TheatreFor’s programming. A native New Yorker, she taught English, literature and creative writing in a suburban Manhattan school for 13 years before retiring to Florida. She introduced middle and high school students to Shakespeare, even establishing an all-Shakespeare high school company that performed multiple productions annually. “I did ten performances, in six days, of two plays, double-cast,” she recalls. “And I did that for I don’t know how many years. Until I retired.” O'Brien’s dedication to Shakespeare stems from a belief in its enduring relevance and its ability to engage audiences of all ages. Bringing the Bard to North Pinellas is a key part of TheatreFor’s mission, ensuring that this cornerstone of English literature remains accessible and vibrant. Her commitment to making Shakespeare accessible to young audiences helped shape a generation of theater enthusiasts in the New York area.

O’Brien’s previous work includes adapting and directing Shakespeare, with productions like “The Merry Wives of Windsor” and original adaptations such as “The Main From Stratford” and “Close Encounters of a Shakespearean Kind.” She first met Graham Jones when he played Sir Toby Belch in a production of “Twelfth Night” at a Tarpon Springs community theater. Her adaptations often incorporate modern themes and perspectives, making Shakespeare’s language and characters more relatable to contemporary audiences. This innovative approach has been instrumental in attracting new audiences to Shakespearean theater. The Tarpon Springs community theater scene, while valuable, often lacks the resources and artistic freedom that O’Brien sought for her Shakespearean productions. Tarpon Springs itself has a rich cultural heritage, rooted in its Greek immigrant community, and the inclusion of Shakespeare alongside local traditions creates a unique blend of artistic expression.

Shakespeare's Relevance to North Pinellas

The inclusion of Shakespeare in TheatreFor's repertoire reflects a deliberate effort to enrich the cultural landscape of North Pinellas. Shakespeare’s works, while centuries old, continue to resonate with audiences due to their exploration of universal themes such as love, loss, ambition, and revenge. By presenting these timeless stories in a fresh and accessible way, TheatreFor aims to foster a deeper appreciation for Shakespeare among residents of all ages. The company’s commitment to Shakespeare also serves as a valuable educational resource for local schools and families. The presence of Shakespearean productions can contribute to a broader cultural awareness and appreciation for the arts within the community.

Nurturing New Talent: The Next Stage Program

TheatreFor is committed to supporting emerging playwrights through its “Next Stage” development program, co-directed by novelist and playwright Peter Balaskas. “That’s a way of giving back,” Balaskas says. “That’s a type of creative volunteerism.” He emphasizes the collaborative nature of playwriting, contrasting it with the often solitary process of writing fiction. “And I want to help, and give what I’ve learned as a storyteller to my community.” The Next Stage program provides playwrights with mentorship, workshops, and opportunities to develop their work, contributing to the growth of the local theater community. This program fills a crucial gap in the local arts ecosystem, providing a platform for emerging voices and fostering innovation in playwriting. The program's focus on providing practical skills and networking opportunities can be invaluable for aspiring playwrights.

Supporting Local Storytellers

The Next Stage program is a vital component of TheatreFor’s commitment to fostering artistic talent within North Pinellas. By providing playwrights with resources and support, the program helps to ensure that the region’s unique stories are heard and celebrated. This initiative also contributes to the development of a sustainable pipeline of new works for TheatreFor and other local theaters. The program's focus on collaboration and mentorship reflects a broader trend in the arts toward fostering community and shared creativity. Supporting local playwrights can also contribute to a stronger sense of regional identity and artistic pride.

A Sustainable Model: Investing in Artists

TheatreFor operates on a unique compensation model, paying actors enough for “maybe a sandwich,” as Jones puts it. “I love our community theaters,” he stresses. “They do a fabulous job. But for the kinds of things that we wanted to do, I wanted to get actors who could commit to the next level of work.” He believes this approach attracts dedicated performers willing to go the extra mile. “The only thing that we can think of, to get people to come and see it, is to be better. And so we try, every day, to be better.” While the compensation may not be lavish, it demonstrates a commitment to valuing the contributions of artists and attracting talent who are passionate about their craft. This model reflects a conscious effort to prioritize artistic quality over financial gain, demonstrating a commitment to the long-term sustainability of the company. The approach also speaks to a desire to create opportunities for emerging artists who may not have access to traditional professional theater avenues.

The Future of TheatreFor

Looking ahead, TheatreFor plans to continue expanding its programming and reach within Northern Pinellas County. This includes exploring new collaborations with local organizations, developing educational initiatives for young audiences, and seeking opportunities to engage with diverse communities. The company’s commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement positions it as a vital cultural resource for the region. The potential for growth is significant, particularly as awareness of TheatreFor’s unique offerings spreads throughout the community. Future success will likely depend on continued community support, fundraising efforts, and the ability to attract and retain talented artists and staff.

Resources

TheatreFor: https://theatrefour.org/ (1863 N. Highland Ave., Clearwater)

Next Stage Development Program: A program dedicated to fostering new playwrights.

Pinellas County Arts Council: https://www.pcarts.org/ (Offers support and resources for local arts organizations.)

The emergence of TheatreFor is a welcome addition to the cultural landscape of Northern Pinellas County, providing residents with access to exceptional theater experiences and fostering a vibrant community of artists and audiences. It’s a testament to the power of shared vision and the enduring value of the arts in enriching our lives.