FST dedicates new Arnold Simonsen and Ronda Montminy Theatre Wing

Supporters and employees of Florida Studio Theatre gathered Oct. 4 at the new FST property to thank the donors who made it possible.

By Niki Kottmann
| 11:18 p.m. October 4, 2017

Arts + Culture

Florida Studio Theatre is growing, and it’s reached a major milestone in that development process.

Several FST board members, employees and top donors attended an intimate reception Oct. 4 to celebrate the $1 million donation that Arnold Simonsen and Ronda Montminy made in order to acquire the theatre’s latest property at 1234 1st Street. The building will be called the Arnold Simonsen and Ronda Montminy Theatre Wing, and it will house production space (particularly an expansion of the costume studio) as well as administrative offices to give employees in the crowded offices of the Sudakoff Theatre Wing some space.

Board of Trustees President Dennis McGillicuddy noted that the property also came with a parking lot, which is crucial to the continued growth of the theatre.

The building helps complete FST’s south campus, which is a feat the organization has been working on for several years.

“Today our shoulders got a little bit stronger and a little bit broader,” said Artistic Director and CEO Richard Hopkins.

Guests enjoyed light bites and refreshments in the new wing before heading outside for the dedication ceremony that honored Simonsen and Montminy.