Florida Studio Theatre, Sarasota

Florida Studio Theatre (FST) is a premier non-profit theater company. Founded in 1973 by Jon Spelman, it has since grown to become a prominent institution for the performing arts in Florida.

FST's architecture is unique and has become an iconic feature of the theater. The building itself is a collection of five historic buildings that have been renovated and connected to create a unified space for the theater's performances and programs.

The main entrance to the theater is through the Hegner Theatre Wing, a large, modern structure that houses the 173-seat Gompertz Theatre and the 109-seat John C. Court Cabaret. The Hegner Theatre Wing is a contemporary addition to the historic buildings that make up the rest of the complex. Its sleek, angular design stands in contrast to the traditional architecture of the surrounding buildings.

The historic buildings that make up the rest of the FST complex include the Keating Theatre, the Goldstein Cabaret, and the renovated Woman's Club building. These buildings have been restored to their original grandeur and have been adapted to serve the theater's needs.

The Keating Theatre is a converted church that seats 237 people. It has a traditional proscenium stage and is used for larger productions. The Goldstein Cabaret is a smaller, more intimate space that seats 109 people. It has a flexible stage that can be adapted to different types of performances, from cabaret to musicals to plays.

The Woman's Club building, which was originally built in 1916, has been renovated to serve as FST's administrative headquarters. The building also houses rehearsal spaces and a costume shop.

Overall, the architecture of FST is a blend of traditional and modern elements. The historic buildings that make up the majority of the complex provide a sense of history and character, while the Hegner Theatre Wing adds a contemporary edge to the overall design. The result is a unique and dynamic space that has become an important cultural hub in the Sarasota community.