Heritage & Legacy

Florence Little Theatre

Celebrating 100 Years of Community Theatre

From humble beginnings on a lawn in 1923 to becoming a cornerstone of the Pee Dee arts community — a century of magic, dedication, and community spirit. Florence Little Theatre has been the heartbeat of local performing arts, bringing generations together through storytelling, mentorship, and the transformative power of live theatre.

1923

The Beginning

Margaret Wright forms The Community Players, staging their first show on Mr. James Lynch's lawn on West Palmetto Street.

1923-40

Growing Strong

Renamed The Pinewood Players, then The Little Theatre Guild. Performances at YMCA, Florence High School, and beyond.

1947

Official Formation

Florence Little Theatre Guild adopts bylaws, elects officers, and obtains the old Army Air Base movie house as their home.

1968

A Permanent Home

Grand opening on South Cashua Drive — "The Grey Lady" — built by dedicated community members including Ronald Sopkin, Jeff Corbin, Joe Baroody, and Phil Stephensen.

"It all began in 1923 when Margaret Wright formed a group called The Community Players. Their first show, in August of 1923, was staged on the lawn of Mr. James Lynch's home on West Palmetto Street."

— From Florence Little Theatre History

2005

State Recognition

Received the prestigious Elizabeth O'Neill Verner Award from the S.C. Arts Commission for dedication to performing arts.

2008

New Beginning

Jesus Christ Superstar opens at the new South Dargan location — a $10 million theatre made possible by Drs. Bruce and Lee Foundation.

2013

90th Anniversary

First SC community theatre to perform Les Misérables. Sold out all shows before opening night. Won SC Arts Alliance Award.

Today & Beyond

Schoolhouse Players, summer camps, and educational programs inspiring generations. FLT is more than a building — it's home.

"One hundred years have come and gone, but FLT enters this new century stronger than ever before."

Visit Florence Little Theatre History written by Arlene Boyd