Preserving History in the Heart of the Treasure Coast

Located in the heart of historic downtown Fort Pierce, Florida, the Sunrise Theatre is one of the Treasure Coast’s most treasured cultural landmarks. Originally opened on August 1, 1923, the Sunrise was once the largest theatre on Florida’s East Coast between Jacksonville and Miami and quickly became a center of cultural activity for St. Lucie County.

Today, the beautifully restored theatre continues to serve as a vibrant gathering place for live entertainment, community events, educational programming, and special occasions. The venue features an intimate 1,200-seat Mainstage and an accompanying Black Box Theatre (210 seats), offering a flexible setting for concerts, Broadway-style productions, comedy, dance, opera, community performances, private events, and more.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Sunrise Theatre reflects both Fort Pierce’s rich past and its continued investment in arts, culture, tourism, and downtown vitality. After closing in 1983, the theatre was saved through a major preservation effort and reopened in 2006 following a full restoration that honored its historic character while adding modern sound, lighting, and guest amenities.

VenuWorks was selected by the City of Fort Pierce to manage the Sunrise Theatre beginning in June 2026. With a focus on honoring the theatre’s remarkable history while bringing new energy to its future, VenuWorks is committed to helping the Sunrise Theatre grow programming, increase venue utilization, enhance the guest experience, and continue serving Fort Pierce and the Treasure Coast for generations to come.

Photo of The Sunrise Theatre taken from the Stage looking towards the House, empty and lit.
Photo of Live Rock Band playing at the Sunrise Theatre with audience in silhouette and on their feet
Photo of Sunrise Theatre Audience on their feet clapping
Photo of A Fish eye shot of the Sunrise Theatre taken from the balcony
Photo of A food buffet at the Private VIP lounge at the Sunrise Theatre
Photo of A performance on stage with a full house.
Photo of Exterior shot of the Sunrise Theatre with classic cars parked out front
Photo of exterior shot of the sunrise theatre with marquee illuminated
Metrics
Seats
K
Annual Patrons
+
Annual Events
Since

Services

Full-Service Facility Management
Operations
Programming & Booking
Event Management & Operations
Marketing & Venue Branding
Ticketing Coordination
Food & Beverage Services
Accounting & Financial Reporting
Human Resources & Staffing
Guest Experience
Community Engagement
Historic Theatre Stewardship
Public Owner Partnership

Community Engagement

Events Hosted

National Touring Concerts
Broadway-Style Productions
Comedy
Dance Performances
Opera & Classical Performances

Classic Rock, Country & Legacy Artists 
Family Programming & Children’s Theatre
Latino & Urban Entertainment

Community Events & Local Arts Programming
Educational Programs & Summer Camps
Banquets, Receptions & Weddings

Photo of H.R. Cook
Regional Vice President

H.R. Cook

H.R. Cook serves as Regional Vice President of Operations for VenuWorks and will provide executive oversight for the Sunrise Theatre account. In this role, he works closely with municipal clients, venue leadership teams, and corporate staff to support strong operations, financial stewardship, strategic planning, and long-term community impact.

H.R. brings more than 35 years of experience in the venue management industry, including over 25 years in senior leadership roles. His background includes managing and supporting historic theatres, arenas, convention centers, sports facilities, equestrian venues, and multi-purpose event complexes. He has extensive experience in account management, facility operations, contract negotiation, capital planning, feasibility studies, and large-scale venue projects, including the successful leadership of a $45 million renovation and expansion initiative.

Prior to joining VenuWorks, H.R. served as Regional General Manager at the Five Flags Center in Dubuque, Iowa. His career also includes senior leadership positions at major facilities including the Kansas Expocentre, IMA Sports Arena, and Macon Coliseum.

Known for his hands-on leadership style and commitment to open communication, H.R. focuses on building strong, collaborative teams that are empowered to deliver excellent guest experiences and operational results. His guiding philosophy — “Find a way to say yes” — reflects his practical, service-driven approach to venue management and his belief that successful venues should be both well-run facilities and vibrant community assets.

Photo of H.R. Cook

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