Historic Home Theater Renewal Project
Main Street Zephyrhills has officially selected Ovation Construction as the demolition contractor to begin the transformation of the historic Home Theater located at 38521 5th Avenue, Zephyrhills.
This milestone marks the first major on-site step toward bringing the 1940s-era landmark back to life as the future East Pasco Cultural Arts Center.
Ovation Construction, a firm with extensive specialized experience in municipal and historical structural rehabilitation across Central Florida, will be responsible for the selective demolition phase of the project. This includes the strategic removal of the unstable 1940s-era Quonset Hut structure at the rear of the theater property, clearing the way for construction crews to preserve the historic core of the main building while integrating state-of-the-art modern spaces.
“Selecting Ovation Construction takes this project from the drawing board into real, physical progress,” said Linda Starr Kerns, President of Main Street Zephyrhills. “By removing the unstable rear structures, we are creating a blank canvas to build a vibrant place for live performances, community gatherings, and economic growth in downtown Zephyrhills.”
The Home Theater originally opened its doors in 1948 under the direction of lumber magnate and former Mayor I.A. Krusen, quickly establishing itself as one of the most modern movie houses in the South. After anchoring local entertainment for decades, the theater closed in 2007.
Main Street Zephyrhills acquired the property using state funding designated during the 2024 and 2025 Florida legislative session.
Earlier this year, initial architectural designs by KMF Architects revealed a stunning vision for the facility, featuring a fully renovated performance venue, versatile indoor gathering spaces, and an innovative rooftop event deck.
Demolition work is scheduled to begin in late Fall 2026.
Main Street Zephyrhills continues to accept donations and community partnerships through its ongoing fundraising campaign to support the restoration efforts.
To learn more about the project timeline, view architectural designs, or make a contribution, visit the official Main Street Zephyrhills Historic Home Theater Project
webpage: https://mainstreetzephyrhills. org/historic-home-theater/ ♥
