History
The story of the Waterfront Playhouse begins in 1940 when the original producing organization, the Key West Players, banded together. Including both locals and Navy personnel, The Players began putting on theatrical productions in whatever space they could find, including the U.S.S. Gilmore which was stationed in Key West during WW II.
In 1960, with the help of Key West Player Tennessee Williams, The Players eventually found a permanent home at The Waterfront Playhouse, a crumbling ice warehouse that had been built in the 1880′s and was situated in historic Mallory Square. The warehouse was totally renovated and transformed into The Waterfront Playhouse (the term by which The Key West Players is most widely known today).
In the years since, major improvements have been supported by the generosity of many donors and the Monroe County Tourist Development Council. In 2007, the new Ross and Anne McKee Lobby was unveiled. In 2010, we made several major technical upgrades (including new lighting and new sound) and dedicated a new stage, named in honor of our long-time president, Henry Woods. In 2011, we replaced the roof on our historic building. Further improvements are on the way.
The Waterfront Playhouse is the crown jewel of the Florida Keys community. Thank you for your continued generosity and support!
