BREAKING NEWS: Garden Theatre to close doors in Winter Garden

The Garden Theatre has officially announced its closure in downtown Winter Garden. 

The theater has been a staple in the community since its original opening in 1935 and, after many years of being shuttered, again at its reopening in 2008.

Garden Theatre representatives took to the organization's website to announce the closure Wednesday, Oct. 2.

"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the closing of Garden Theatre Inc., due to financial challenges that have proven insurmountable," the website reads. "Despite our best efforts to continue providing a space for creativity, community and the performing arts, we can no longer sustain the operational costs and demands necessary to keep our doors open."

The interior of the theater, constructed in 1935 in the Mediterranean Revival style, was modeled after a Spanish courtyard, with Romeo and Juliet balconies, a Spanish tile roof, and a dark blue ceiling resplendent with stars. 

The theater underwent several renovations until closing in 1963, falling victim to the popularity of television.

The city of Winter Garden purchased the building in 2002, turning over restoration efforts to the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation. 

The joint effort between the two organizations culminated in the successful reopening of the Garden Theatre in February 2008, with a gala performance featuring local talent and Broadway star Davis Gaines, of "The Phantom of the Opera" fame.

"Since 2008, Garden Theatre has been a haven for artists, performers and audiences alike," the website continues. "We have been proud to nurture local talent, bring stories to life and foster connections through the power of live theater. It goes without saying that the performing arts contribute greatly to a community’s quality of life. Unfortunately, rising costs and the challenges of recent times, including significant state budget cuts, have deeply impacted our ability to secure the funding required to maintain our mission.

"Garden Theatre has been a major part of the West Orange community for 16 years," the post reads. "We are so grateful to everyone who has supported us over the years — our audiences, donors, volunteers and artists. Your dedication and passion have been the heartbeat of this theater, and we are honored to have been part of this community for so very long. While our final curtain has drawn, the memories, friendships and artistic achievements we’ve shared will live on. Thank you for being part of our story and for allowing Garden Theatre to be part of yours."

This is a developing story. Please check back soon for more details.