VENUWORKS APPOINTED AS VENUE MANAGER FOR HISTORIC SUNRISE THEATRE IN FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA
FORT PIERCE, FL, May 19, 2026 – The City of Fort Pierce has selected VenuWorks as the new venue management company for the historic Sunrise Theatre, one of the Treasure Coast’s most treasured cultural landmarks and a cornerstone of downtown Fort Pierce.
The Fort Pierce City Commission approved the agreement at its most recent meeting. The Ames, IA based firm will begin management of the 1,200-seat performing arts center on June 1, 2026, with an initial transitional period running through September 30, 2026. The full contract term will begin October 1, 2026, aligning with the City’s fiscal year, and will run through September 30, 2031.
The partnership is designed to strengthen the Sunrise Theatre’s role as a cultural anchor, expand programming, increase venue utilization, and support continued economic activity in downtown Fort Pierce. VenuWorks brings a proven track record of balancing historic preservation with modernized operations, financial transparency, expanded programming, and long-term community stewardship at historic venues across the country. Under the agreement, VenuWorks will oversee day-to-day operations, programming and booking, marketing, ticketing coordination, food and beverage services, financial reporting, staffing, and guest experience initiatives. The City of Fort Pierce will retain full ownership of the venue.
Fort Pierce Mayor, Linda Hudson said “The City of Fort Pierce looks forward to the partnership with VenuWorks in continuing the operations of the Sunrise Theatre. For over 100 years, the Sunrise Theatre has been a positive economic driver in our city’s Historic Downtown District. We are beginning a new era of making sure that this historic asset continues to offer quality entertainment not only to residents but also to visitors.”
A key focus of VenuWorks’ management plan for the Sunrise Theatre will be expanding programming while preserving the venue’s community-centered mission. The company intends to build on the Sunrise’s strong foundation by pursuing additional national touring acts, family programming, children’s theatre, Broadway-style entertainment, Latino and urban entertainment, comedy, concerts, private events, community gatherings, local arts programming, banquets, weddings, and special events tailored to the Fort Pierce market.
“VenuWorks is honored to have been selected by the City of Fort Pierce to manage the historic Sunrise Theatre,” said Steve Peters, Founder and CEO of VenuWorks. “This is a treasured venue with a remarkable legacy, and we understand how deeply it is woven into the cultural life and identity of the Fort Pierce community. Our commitment is to honor that history while bringing new energy, expanded programming, operational support, and strong financial stewardship to help the Sunrise Theatre grow its impact. We look forward to working with the City, the staff, volunteers, local businesses, artists, and community partners to enhance the guest experience, increase revenue opportunities, and ensure this beautiful theatre continues to serve Fort Pierce for generations to come.”
Located in the heart of historic downtown Fort Pierce, the Sunrise Theatre is a beautifully restored 1923 performing arts venue featuring an intimate 1,200-seat Mainstage and an accompanying Black Box Theatre. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Sunrise has long served as a cultural anchor for the region, presenting national touring Broadway shows, concerts, comedy, dance, opera, local programming, educational opportunities, and community events.
VenuWorks brings extensive experience managing historic theatres and performing arts venues across the country, including the Paramount Theatre in Cedar Rapids, Iowa; the Victory Theatre in Evansville, Indiana; the Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet, Illinois; the Adler Theatre in Davenport, Iowa; and the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, Illinois.
The appointment marks another significant addition to VenuWorks’ growing portfolio of historic theatres, performing arts centers, arenas, convention centers, sports venues, and civic facilities. As VenuWorks celebrates its 30th anniversary year in 2026, the company continues to focus on partnering with municipalities and public owners to operate venues that inspire, entertain, enrich, and create lasting cultural and economic impact.
About Sunrise Theatre
The Sunrise Theatre is a historic performing arts venue located in downtown Fort Pierce, Florida. Originally opened in 1923 and restored to its original grandeur before reopening in 2006, the theatre features an intimate 1,200-seat Mainstage and a Black Box Theatre. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Sunrise Theatre presents concerts, Broadway touring productions, comedy, dance, opera, community events, educational programs, and special events for audiences throughout the Treasure Coast.
About VenuWorks
VenuWorks is a leading professional venue management and consulting firm serving public and private facilities of all types and sizes across the United States. Founded in 1996, VenuWorks is the nation’s only 100 percent employee-owned company in the venue management industry. The company manages arenas, theatres, convention centers, amphitheaters, sports complexes, and other civic venues with a focus on transparency, community impact, operational excellence, financial stewardship, and long-term partnership. Learn more at venuworks.com.