Live Oak Theatre in Hernando County will soon be in a brand new facility.

  • Live Oak Theatre to turn building into performing arts center
  • Started campaign to raise money to help purchase the building
  • Want to make a donation? Visit their website.

They have recently reached an agreement with the county to purchase the old utilities building off Cortez Boulevard in Brooksville and turn it into a performing arts center.

Now, they have started a capital campaign to raise money to help with the purchase of the building and getting the inside room ready for classes and performances.

"I can barely contain my excitement. This has been a dream come true for so many people myself included," said Randi Olsen, Live Oak Theatre’s President and Artistic Director.

The company started nine years ago. It’s been holding performances at Faith Evangelical Presbyterian Church, but the demand for shows became too much for the church's schedule. So, they knew they needed their own space.

"It's very, very exciting like to see how much it's grown," said Alannah Allocco, who played Annie in the company’s recent production.

With a big building comes a big cost, which is why the company is launching a capital campaign hoping to raise $100,000.

The students at Live Oak also have their own fundraising efforts. They've put jars all around the county and are hoping to fill one hundred of them full of change over the next few weeks.

So far, company members said people they've run into have been very supportive.

"Everywhere I go people are handing me checks, like 'here, it's only a little, but it will help' and really every little bit helps," Olsen explained.

The building will be a versatile space, giving people of all ages access to the arts in their own backyard.

If you are interested in helping out Live Oak Theatre, you can find the link to donate on their website. They also plan to hold a fundraising gala at the new building in March.