The Florida Orchestra has announced a new partnership with VenuWorks to help manage the Mahaffey Theater, the landmark waterfront venue in downtown St. Petersburg. The agreement marks the next chapter in the City of St. Petersburg’s plan for the theater, which has long been a hub for orchestral performances, touring artists, and education programs.
Under the arrangement, The Florida Orchestra will retain artistic control over its own performances at the Mahaffey and help shape the venue’s broader cultural direction. VenuWorks, a nationally known and employee-owned facility management firm, will handle day-to-day operations including programming, booking, marketing, ticketing, food and beverage service, financial reporting, staffing, and guest experience.
Florida Orchestra President and CEO Ignacio Barrón Viela said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening St. Petersburg as a city of the arts. VenuWorks founder and CEO Steve Peters said the company is excited to bring operational support, expanded programming, and strong financial stewardship to the venue.
The partnership is also designed to help keep St. Petersburg as the orchestra’s home base for administration, events, and educational outreach. Together, the two organizations say they hope to turn the Mahaffey Theater into an even more vibrant community gathering place with a wider range of musical, theatrical, cultural, and educational events.