Historic Theatres in Tampa

Please help connect Tampa's historic theatres to the people who have enjoyed them over the years. Our goal is to preserve their history via a documentary film and book. Share any stories and information you have at: historictheatresintampa@gmail.com. If you'd like to support the project, please contact award winning filmmaker and Tampa native Renee Warmack who is partnering with the project's Founder and Tampa native, Kelly Hickman at: https://reneewarmackproductions.com/contact/

Tuesday, December 25, 2018

Nickelodeon/Vaudette/Orpheum Theatre (Downtown)

Tampa's Nickelodeon (incorrectly spelled as "Nicklodeon" or "Nickleodian" in most ads) opened in November of 1906 at 315 Franklin, putting Tampa on the motion picture theatre map. By 1908, 315 Franklin had been converted to a bowling alley. But on July 1, 1912 The Vaudette, a 325 seat vaudeville and motion picture house, opened in the same location. On May 18, 1914, the Orpheum (also a vaudeville and motion picture house) opened at 315 Franklin. In July of 1914, the location was converted into an electrical fixtures store. (Note: Tampa had three Orpheum theatres between 1908 and 1934.)