THE LYRIC THEATRE was built in 1926 as a silent movie house and was operated until the depression when it was closed and eventually sold. Over the next 50 years it was bought and sold to various concerns and used in a variety of manners.
In 1978 the theatre was purchased by a non-denominational church and was used for their weekly services until they built a new facility, and no longer needed the structure in downtown Stuart. At that time, in 1987, a downtown redevelopment effort was underway. A group of community minded individuals, FRIENDS OF THE LYRIC, INC., saw THE LYRIC THEATRE, situated in the heart of downtown, and realized there was an opportunity to save a historically significant structure. With assistance from community grassroots efforts and grants, The Lyric underwent much needed repair to stabilize the building.
On November 12, 1993 THE LYRIC THEATRE was named to the National Register of Historic Places.
In 2005 The expansion of THE LYRIC was commenced and completed, enlarging the stage and equipping The Lyric with a backstage with flex-dressing area, a restroom, and office/storage.
In the Summer of 2014, THE LYRIC THEATRE underwent an extensive facelift with all new seating in the orchestra section, new walls, and a completely remodeled lobby. Executive Director, John Loesser, explained it this way, “Every improvement we’ve made was to help make The Lyric a more comfortable and elegant facility. For those who know New York, we turned the Fillmore into Carnegie Hall.”
The Lyric’s lobby has a brand new bar, full large glass doors at the entrances, more box office windows, and better lighting. “It’s like a new theater,” said Loesser “but it’s still The Lyric we all know and love. We have the same number of seats in the same locations; it will be the same intimate experience to enjoy a show, only with a look that will make you feel warm and comfortable.”
In addition to all the cosmetic improvements The Lyric made, they have added a new line array sound system, a digital sound board, and a 9-foot concert Steinway piano.
The LYRIC THEATRE seats 500 and has a 22'X30' stage and features whisper-perfect acoustics. This grand old theatre represents a colorful history in our community as a central gathering place for young and old alike.
For more information please call Lauren Epsenhart at 772-220-1942 ext. 205 or email education@lyrictheatre.com.
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