The Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center is a historic theater located in Sanford, Florida. Originally built in 1923, the theater has undergone several renovations over the years, but it still retains much of its historic charm and character.

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The theater was originally known as the Milane Theater and served as a popular venue for vaudeville acts and silent films during the early 20th century. It underwent a major renovation in the 1930s and was renamed the Ritz Theater. Throughout the mid-20th century, the Ritz Theater continued to be a prominent cultural hub in Sanford, hosting a variety of live performances, films, and community events.

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In the late 20th century, the theater fell into disrepair, but efforts to revitalize the downtown Sanford area led to its restoration and reopening as the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in 2010. The Wayne Densch Charitable Trust provided significant funding for the restoration project, which aimed to preserve the theater's historic features while updating its facilities to accommodate modern performances and events.

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Today, the Ritz Theater at Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center serves as a venue for a wide range of cultural events, including live theater productions, concerts, dance performances, film screenings, and community gatherings. It continues to be an important cultural landmark in Central Florida, offering residents and visitors alike a glimpse into the area's rich history and vibrant arts scene.

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The Ritz Theater is located at 201 S. Magnolia Ave., sanford, fl 32771

 

Ritz Theater does not have a dedicated parking lot and relies on street parking for events. There are a few public parking lots in downtown Sanford.

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