Orlando Florida, October 22, 2025
News Summary
The Renaissance Theatre in Orlando has been condemned by the city due to fire safety code violations, leading to a halt in productions and a relocation of key shows such as Nosferatu. The estimated financial impact of the closure exceeds $300,000, significantly affecting the 100 artists employed by the theatre. Temporary venues have been secured for performances as the management works on addressing the safety concerns highlighted by city officials. The theatre continues to seek community support to overcome these challenges.
Orlando — The Renaissance Theatre was condemned by the city of Orlando over a month ago due to fire safety code violations, forcing an immediate closure that paused regular operations and prompted relocation of productions while the company addresses required safety upgrades.
Key facts and immediate impact
Closure and relocations: The closure forced the theater to pause operations and relocate its annual production of Nosferatu, a Halloween immersive show. Temporary homes for performances have been found at local venues like The Plaza Live and The Social. Productions affected include Nosferatu, VBar, and the weekly OTR drag show. All other show dates have been removed from the theater’s website.
Financial impact: The closure has caused an estimated financial loss of over $300,000, including $125,000 in wages for performers and staff. The theater has raised $33,178 from 292 donors to help with expenses. Support from co-founder Chris Kampmeier has been crucial in supplementing income and keeping staff paid. Donald Rupe, co-founder and artistic director, stated that most non-profits would have closed by now but they are managing to survive due to financial support.
Confirmed performance dates and venues
Final shows for Nosferatu are scheduled for:
- October 25 at The Plaza Live
- October 29 at The Beacham
- November 1 back at The Plaza Live
Safety violations and city findings
Reasons for condemnation: The building was condemned due to life-safety concerns from unpermitted construction work, including an unauthorized second floor. City officials cited several life-safety hazards, such as electrical issues and a lack of sprinklers and fire suppression in certain areas. Obstructed exits were also documented, creating significant risks for patrons and hindering emergency evacuation routes.
Compliance work: Rupe noted that they are committed to addressing the city’s safety concerns and are working to comply with the fire inspection requirements. The company is coordinating with the city and contractors to correct unpermitted work, install required fire suppression systems where needed, remediate electrical hazards, and clear exit paths.
Operations, staffing and community effects
Employment and community role: The company employs about 100 artists and the closure has led to significant economic impacts. The Renaissance Theatre has been known for creating immersive experiences for audiences, and the shutdown has interrupted a slate of productions and regular community programming.
Short-term measures: The theater is exploring options for alternative venues for performances during the shutdown. Rupe expressed optimism about returning to their original venue, hoping for a deeper appreciation of their space once they reopen. He encourages the public to buy tickets to current shows to support the company and help cover ongoing expenses.
Next steps and outlook
Management plans to complete required repairs and inspections to meet fire code standards and secure re-occupancy approval from the city. Productions that adapt well to larger stages may have opportunities to tour or remain at temporary homes, as Nosferatu and VBar productions look better on larger stages, hinting at a potential future tour. The company will continue to balance safety compliance work with efforts to minimize financial and employment impacts while performances proceed at temporary venues.
FAQ
Q: What happened to the Renaissance Theatre?
A: The Renaissance Theatre was condemned by the city of Orlando over a month ago due to fire safety code violations.
Q: Which productions were affected?
A: Productions affected include Nosferatu, VBar, and the weekly OTR drag show.
Q: Where have performances moved?
A: Temporary homes for performances have been found at local venues like The Plaza Live and The Social.
Q: Are there scheduled Nosferatu shows?
A: Final shows for Nosferatu are scheduled for:
- October 25 at The Plaza Live
- October 29 at The Beacham
- November 1 back at The Plaza Live
Q: What financial losses has the closure caused?
A: The closure has caused an estimated financial loss of over $300,000, including $125,000 in wages for performers and staff.
Q: How much has been raised to help?
A: The theater has raised $33,178 from 292 donors to help with expenses.
Q: Why was the building condemned?
A: The building was condemned due to life-safety concerns from unpermitted construction work, including an unauthorized second floor. Several life-safety hazards were cited, such as electrical issues and a lack of sprinklers and fire suppression in certain areas, and obstructed exits.
Q: How many people does the company employ?
A: The company employs about 100 artists and the closure has led to significant economic impacts.
Q: Who has provided financial support to keep staff paid?
A: Support from co-founder Chris Kampmeier has been crucial in supplementing income and keeping staff paid.
Quick reference chart
| Key feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Condemnation | The Renaissance Theatre was condemned by the city of Orlando over a month ago due to fire safety code violations |
| Financial loss | Over $300,000 (including $125,000 in wages) |
| Funds raised | $33,178 from 292 donors |
| Employees | About 100 artists |
| Temporary venues | The Plaza Live; The Social; The Beacham (selected dates) |
| Final Nosferatu shows | October 25 at The Plaza Live; October 29 at The Beacham; November 1 back at The Plaza Live |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Watermark Online
- Orlando Sentinel
- Orlando Weekly
- Google Search: Renaissance Theatre Orlando
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Renaissance Theatre
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
