Ramon Theatre, Frostproof FL

I am a fan of the 1920's Florida land boom years ornate architecture. I especially love the old theaters that have been lovingly restored in many small towns. I discovered this Mediterranean-Revival gem in Frostproof while attending the Scenic Ridge 39 Mile Long Garage Sale, The sale ran right through the historic downtown in front of the theater. The theater was open to sell snacks and provide restrooms.

Ramon Theater was built in 1925 by Vera and Frank Thompson at a cost of $100,000. The building was designed by M. Leo Elliott, a well known architect from Tampa. The Thompsons named the theater after their second son Ramon who was born in 1925. The theater was built with a wide stage, dressing rooms, and an orchestra pit for vaudeville shows. Later on it showed silent movies with piano accompaniment. The original piano, used to accompany silent films, has been preserved and is on display in the lobby. The Ramon was Frostproof's only movie theater and it was operated by Vera Thompson until it closed in the late 1960's.

The theater was left to decay until the Frostproof Chamber of Commerce purchased it and the building next door. In 2002 they were able to raised half of the 1.3 million dollars needed to restore the historic building. The rest of the restoration money came from state and county grants. The theater was reconfigured, the snack bar removed, and new carpeting, wallpaper, and updated restrooms were added. The original seats have been removed and they set up folding chairs for performances. In 2007 a gala was held to celebrate the progress made on the restoration and its new life as a community event venue.

Today the historic theater hosts productions, concerts, and social, civic and business events. Upcoming events include a musical salute honoring veteran on November 11th, Christmas with Chris Ruggiero on December 14th, and Joey Grillo tribute to Tom Petty on February 3,2024. The theaters murder mystery events are very popular. The November murder mystery is already sold out but there is one on December 31st that still has tickets for $25.

I saw the Elvis impersonator there and the show was wonderful. The theater is very point

First time visiting. Very small and intimate. Nice lake down the street from theater. Would visit again

Ramon theater was great! The band playing the Beatles tribute was fantastic. The price of the tickets was good. All who went had an enjoyable time. I know we did!