If you are visiting Fort Lauderdale, Florida, step into a rich piece of local cultural history at the Parker Playhouse. Established by Dr. Louis Parker, this landmark 1,147-seat theatre first raised its curtain on February 6, 1967, debuting Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple starring E.G. Marshall and Dennis O'Keefe.
Dr. Parker collaborated with Broadway impresario Zev Buffman to bring top theater artists of the day to the stage, producing continuous entertainment for nearly 40 years. Managed today by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts under the Performing Arts Center Authority, the venue offers a refreshed, top-tier experience following a major $30 million renovation raised by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. When you re-open the doors to this historic venue, which officially welcomed back guests in September 2021, you can admire preserved 1983 rotunda artwork painted by Donald Renner in the East and West Lobbies while enjoying modern upgrades.
Explore the expanded lobby, renovated lounges, updated bathrooms, and improved lighting, electrical, and air systems. Whether you come to see live concerts, hilarious comedy shows, theatrical productions, dance performances, or family events hosted in partnership with Broward County Schools, you will enjoy a marvelous blend of classic history and modern comfort.
What to see at Parker Playhouse
- Historic 1,147-seat theatre originally opened in 1967
- Preserved 1983 rotunda artwork by artist Donald Renner
- Expanded lobby and renovated guest lounges
- Upgraded lighting, electrical, and air systems
- Diverse programming spanning concerts, comedy, dance, and theater
Visiting tips
Take time while passing through the East and West Lobbies to admire the preserved rotunda artwork painted by Donald Renner in 1983.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: During scheduled performances
How to get there & what’s nearby
Parker Playhouse is easy to reach on Fort Lauderdale’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church and SS Copenhagen (1898). For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Fort Lauderdale travel guide.
See the full Fort Lauderdale travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.