The Sky’s the Limit for the Beach Theatre’s Brilliant Return

 By Lauren Clark Dykes

It was all blue skies and bold dreams at the Beach Theatre on July 11, as a launch party signaled that the classic venue on St. Pete Beach was officially back in business.

Local visionary and self-proclaimed theatre kid Hannah Hockman stole the spotlight in a cloud-covered puff dress, glitter-heart sneakers, and a white bow perched atop her blonde curls. Confident, charismatic, and commanding, she didn’t just make an entrance—she owned it.

Armed with passion, perseverance, and power tools, Hockman purchased the long-vacant Beach Theatre on Corey Avenue in March 2024. The white block building with iconic light blue accents was originally built in 1940 and had sat empty for 13 years. After months of dust, drywall, and a few hurricanes for drama, the Beach Theatre is finally ready to step back into the spotlight.

The building was once a rainy-day date spot for Hockman’s parents, Sissy and Ron. It was also beloved for its late-night showings of The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Now, the Beach Theatre is poised to become a hub for movies, indie films, live performances, plays, concerts, tribute bands, and community gatherings.

The expanded lobby buzzed with excitement—filled with family, friends, and the scent of fresh popcorn. The concession stand offered sodas, candy, beer, and wine. When the lights blinked, pastel pink and blue velvet ropes ushered guests into the main theatre. It was showtime.

The newly restored space felt intimate and grand all at once. A curved white proscenium framed the performance area. Six ornate sconces along the walls drew the eye up to a stunning exposed wood barrel ceiling. The house seats 175, with cupholders and plenty of legroom.

Guests were first treated to trailers for upcoming flicks like Green Flash and 007: GoldenEye. Then, with ease, the 600-pound motorized screen floated up to reveal the black stage, where the night’s live entertainment began.

Music director Juan Rodriguez, on keys, led a dream team of musicians: Burt Rushing on drums, Richard Jimenez on bass, and three powerhouse vocalists—Katie Davis, John Perez, and Mariela Zeno—delivered a dynamic cabaret-style set.

The trio opened with a movie medley, seamlessly transitioning from one hit to the next. Standout moments included Katie and John’s mashup of “Ten Minutes Ago” (Cinderella) and “The Next Ten Minutes” (The Last Five Years)—a heartfelt and theatrical duet. Mariela soared in “Live Out Loud” from A Little Princess.

With goosebump-inducing vocals, the group closed with an all-out Rock of Ages medley, setting the tone for the rest of the celebration.

Then came a scene change: the screen dropped down and the theatre transformed back into a cinema.

The featured presentation, A New Wave, was a behind-the-scenes documentary produced by Lunar Speedboat Productions and created by Travis and Alexandria Hawkes. The film follows Hockman’s journey to revive the Beach Theatre—capturing candid moments, construction challenges, and her signature sparkle.

The audience left inspired—and maybe a little misty-eyed. Hockman shines in every frame. Determined, spunky, and community-driven, she’s the kind of person who makes you believe in the power of art.

The official premiere is set for July 18, where guests will experience the full magic of the Beach Theatre: live performances, the documentary, and a front-row seat to the revival of this historic treasure. The Beach Theatre isn’t just reopening—it’s reclaiming its place as the star of Corey Avenue.

So buy your ticket, grab a soda, silence your phone, and get ready for the next act.

Hockman, with her sky dress and sky-high dreams, is more than just a new business owner. She’s a believer in art, community, and second chances. Her energy is infectious, her vision is clear—and she’s brought something truly special back to Corey Avenue.

The sky’s the limit.