Shipwreck theatre coming to Vilano Town Center

Historic City News business reporters learned this week that Shipwreck Theatre Company LLC, has obtained a license to operate a live theatre in the former location of Vilano Beach Video at 200 Vilano Rd; just east of the Vilano Beach Pier.

Director and co-founder Scott Abrams received his license on September 2nd and he has officially announced that the 2400 sq. ft. renovated space will feature live theater, performing arts classes and children’s programming.

“Shipwreck Theatre Company and Conservatory is proud to join the other businesses focused on the revitalization of the Vilano Beach Town Center,” Abrams said. “This is an exciting time for us, and we believe Saint Augustine has never been more ready for a new, vibrant entertainment destination.”

Abrams told Historic City News that he is a “twenty-five year veteran of the stage” and he has performed “from Key West to California, Atlanta to Alaska”. He is an actor, writer and director for theater, television, film and radio. He said that during his career, he has founded a children’s theater, multiple improv comedy troupes and now the Shipwreck Theatre.

Abrams said that he has been an improv comedian and a corporate trainer for more than a decade. Since moving to St. Augustine two years ago, he has been a ghost tour guide, directed teens and adults at the Limelight Theatre and co-founded the Florida History Actors Guild; an organization committed to bringing history to life for today’s youth.

Working through the permitting and renovation process now, Abrams says that they hope to open their doors early November with a masquerade gala.

Abrams hopes to announce the production line-up for the first season during the coming weeks; he will hold auditions and rehearsal immediately thereafter.

The group plans to serve St. Augustine and Northeast Florida by offering innovative new works and re-imagined classics; bringing original local voices and diverse global visions together onstage. In addition, the newly formed company will offer nightlife options to the locals and tourists alike including Spoken Word, Stand-Up Comedy and Improv Comedy.

“Shipwreck Theatre Company will serve as the new home of the Exploding Bishops Improv Comedy Crew, an established St. Augustine improv troupe,” Abrams said. “By combining bold, modern ambitions with classic theatrical traditions we will bring live theater to life in the Oldest City.”

According to Abrams, it will also be available as a venue for rent to individuals and organizations looking for a unique space for performances, meetings, corporate presentations and special events.

Photo credits: © 2011 Historic City News contributed photograph by Sarah Nichols