The Atlantic Beach Experimental Theatre is getting a new name and a new home.
The 26-year-old theatre company has been performing at the Adele Grage Cultural Center in Atlantic Beach. It’s moving to the Neptune Beach Plaza, where it will be temporarily housed in the same building as Lucky’s Market.
The theatre company will soon be known as All Beaches Experimental Theatre (ABET acronym stays the same), to recognize its new home, which is planned for redevelopment under the name 500 Atlantic.
“We are so grateful for this timely partnership, as it will give us a much-needed dedicated space for our organization,” said Judy Hulett, a member of the ABET Board of Directors in an email to WJCT News.
“We have had a wonderful relationship with Atlantic Beach for the last 26 years and truly appreciate the support the community has given us. However, this move will allow us expand our reach across the entire Beaches region,” said Hulett.
TriBridge Residential, which plans to develop 500 Atlantic, made the announcement as it seeks to turn the shopping center, formerly anchored by Kmart, into a mix of residences, shops, a grocer and restaurants.
TriBridge has been actively seeking support for the project, which is seeking a special exception from Neptune Beach to proceed.
“Our long-term goal is to expand as a cultural arts center in this location that will cultivate theatre, dance and music,” said Hulett.
Once 500 Atlantic is developed, ABET will be relocated to a permanent facility within the development, according to the plan accounced by TriBridge Residential.
The 2018-2019 ABET season, which begins in the fall, will open and close with two family-friendly classics: James and the Giant Peach and Alice in Wonderland.
Additional Information
Bill Bortzfield can be reached at bbortzfield@wjct.org, 904-358-6349 or on Twitter at @BortzInJax.
