In 1988, ACT made a major step: it acquired a vacant school-board building located at 209 Cedar Street in Fernandina Beach
This new space eventually became known as Studio 209, ACT’s first permanent home
The first show in Studio 209 was Dracula, mounted in 1990
Renovations of the building continued, and by the 1992–1993 season, the space was fully prepared for regular use
Growth, Expansion, and the Main Stage (1990s–2010)
As ACT matured, it steadily grew both in audience size and scope:
Studio 209 quickly became a beloved local venue, drawing near-capacity audiences for many performances.
By the early 2000s, ACT launched a capital campaign to build a new, larger performance space adjacent to Studio 209
In April 2010, the Main Stage building opened: a 7,500-square-foot theater with an auditorium capacity of approximately 170 seats (later officially up to 186)
The inaugural show in the Main Stage was Pirates of Penzance by Gilbert & Sullivan
Vision, Mission, and Artistic Identity
ACT’s mission is “to enhance the quality of life of our local (and extended) community by providing excellent, innovative theatrical and artistic experiences through presentation, participation, and education.”
It remains a volunteer-driven organization, heavily relying on local donors, community volunteers, and season ticket holders.
Over more than 40 years, ACT has produced over 300 shows for adults and children
In addition to its Main Stage and Studio 209 performances, ACT runs educational programs and youth theatre shutdown123