The Gem Theater in Mulberry is a cultural gem that has been in the city’s entertainment scene for decades. With a rich history and a lineup of diverse shows, the Gem Theater continues to be a spot for artistic expression and community engagement. If you live in Lakeland or Plant City, it’s the perfect day trip or date night. Keep reading to learn all about Mulberry’s hidden gem, the Gem Theater!
History of the Gem Theater
The Gem Theater has deep roots in Mulberry’s history, dating back to its opening night in 1947. The theater provided entertainment for the city of Mulberry for 10 years showing movies like 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. However, after an outdoor drive-in theater opened in Lakeland, its popularity faded.
By 1956, the theatre closed and the building was purchased and used by the International Chemical Workers Union as an office space. The phosphate union used the office space but neglected much of the theater, and it got pretty rough.
By the time the city made a deal with ICWU to have the downstairs theatre building in exchange for a renovation of the union’s office buildings, the theater had fallen into disarray. It was filled with rats, termites, and roaches. The ceiling had fallen in, and the building needed a complete makeover.
But City Manager Rick Johnson didn’t let that stop him, and starting in 2013 he led a three-year restoration project to bring it back to its former glory. It took $2 million and a lot of hard work, but the Gem Theater is now a gorgeous place to spend the afternoon in the town of Mulberry.
Showcase of Diverse Performances
One of the defining features of the Gem Theater is its commitment to offering a diverse range of shows to cater to various tastes. From live theatrical productions and musical performances to stand-up comedy and film screenings, the Gem Theater is a versatile hub for entertainment in Mulberry.
Shows and Events
The Gem Theater boasts a dynamic calendar of events throughout the year. The theater hosts “Dinner and a Movie” evenings every other month and seasonal events like showings of The Addams Family in autumn. Check their website for a current list of events!
Pricing and Ticket Information
The Gem Theater offers a range of ticket prices to accommodate different budgets. But general admission tickets typically start at $5 for movies, which isn’t bad! Admission to showings sometimes includes snacks and drinks as well! Tickets for Dinner and a Movie are only $20 and include an appetizer, entree, dessert, and water or tea. You can’t beat that kind of deal!
The Gem Theater in Mulberry is more than a venue; it’s a cultural institution that weaves together history, entertainment, and community spirit. Whether you’re a local or a tourist looking to explore a piece of Mulberry, you have to take a visit to the Gem Theater!