Behind The Curtain: Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre

The Nancy & Bilheimer Capitol theatre has a rich history since its opening on March 21, 1921 in downtown Clearwater.
At that time, the theatre had 944 seats. The ceiling in our front lobby was painted to reflect what once was an open air lobby. During renovations in 2013, the Panel of Honor was revealed, hidden for almost 90 years.
Local historians found a record of this memorial honoring Clearwater citizens who served in World War 1. After nearly a century of use, the original stage floor was replaced. Upon removal, a section of the floor was installed as the threshold into the Ray & Geri Trautlein Dress Circle Lounge.
Another nod to the past is featured in the last row on house left. Donald Roebling, creator of the amphibious military vehicle the “Alligator”, frequented the theatre during the 1950s. Being large both in character and stature, he had his own custom “double-wide” seat installed.
The original building that housed the Clearwater Sun newspaper was absorbed into the new Capitol Theatre during the 2013 renovations. The original brickwork and portions of the hand painted sign are still visible in the mezzanine today.
In 2019, the Capitol Theatre was renamed the Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre after the philanthropic couple generously donated to expand and secure our arts education programs throughout the community. This ensures that the theater's rich history of changing lives through the performing arts continues well into the future.