The sloped floor of the theater is dirt today, the ceiling a temporary ply- wood cover. The lobby and lounge have been demolished, and the dress code requires a hard hat. The people who spearheaded a $23-million renovation of the Bayfront Center from 1987-1988 saw the inner workings of the theater when they toured Bayfront Center’s theater, arena, lounge and meeting room when construction began.This round of renovations would add second story seating, our European-style boxes and add a pit under the stage for accompaniment.

It was after construction finished that our venue was renamed The Mahaffey Theater for the Performing Arts, for a St. Petersburg family who contributed significantly to the capital campaign.