Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC) is a year-round theater and arts education hub located in Miramar Beach, Florida. Founded in 2012 by Nathanael and Anna Fisher, it has grown into a centerpiece for professional performances and youth programs in the South Walton area. Here's what you need to know:
- Mainstage Productions: ECTC offers a variety of shows, including musicals, dramas, comedies, and family-friendly performances.
- Youth Programs: Classes and workshops for kids and teens include acting, technical theater, and improv. Fall 2025 highlights include Alice in Wonderland Jr. and Sew Magical!.
- Summer Camps: Intensive programs like Seussical the Musical and Beetlejuice JR! provide hands-on performance training.
- Location: Situated at Grand Boulevard, ECTC is easily accessible with nearby dining and shopping options.
- Tickets and Memberships: Tickets are available online, by phone, or in person, with discounts for teachers, military, and seniors. VIP memberships offer perks like priority seating and complimentary drinks.
ECTC is more than just a theater - it’s a community space that brings professional performances and educational opportunities to locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re attending a show, enrolling your child in a class, or volunteering, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Visit their website for schedules, pricing, and registration details.
History and Mission of ECTC
How ECTC Began
Emerald Coast Theatre Company started as a grassroots initiative aimed at filling a noticeable gap in local theater offerings. With a deep passion for the arts and a commitment to serving the community, the founders built a space where creativity could thrive. What began as small-scale educational programs soon grew into a larger vision for a community-focused theater. This early dedication laid the groundwork for a mission that continues to inspire.
ECTC's Vision for the Arts
The organization operates with a twofold mission: producing professional theater performances and fostering arts education. Its productions bring big-city quality to the Emerald Coast, offering locals and visitors alike a chance to enjoy exceptional theater. At the same time, its educational programs provide hands-on training and performance opportunities, helping to cultivate the next generation of talent. This combination has firmly established ECTC as a cultural cornerstone in South Walton.
Professional Mainstage Productions
Types of Productions
ECTC offers an exciting lineup of mainstage shows, featuring everything from musicals and dramas to mysteries, comedies, and performances designed specifically for young audiences. Each production promises a unique theatrical experience that keeps audiences coming back for more.
The Story Behind ECTC
Educational Programs and Youth Opportunities
ECTC offers a variety of programs that combine theater training with personal development. Designed for students from kindergarten through high school, these programs provide an inviting space for both newcomers and seasoned young actors to enhance their skills in a nurturing environment.
After-School and Homeschool Programs
ECTC's Youth Classes run throughout the school year, offering structured lessons tailored to different age groups and experience levels. These classes give students a chance to explore various aspects of theater while preparing for full productions that showcase their progress.
For Fall 2025, ECTC is offering several specialized classes:
- Mini Players: Aimed at kindergarten and first-grade students, this program features Alice in Wonderland Jr. - Minis for $275.
- Little Players and Big Players: Designed for second to fifth graders, these programs present a more advanced version of the production, each priced at $415. These classes group students by age to ensure the material suits their developmental stage.
- Teen Technical Theatre: For older students, this $250 class focuses on behind-the-scenes skills like lighting, sound, set design, and stage management.
Homeschool students can also participate in unique workshops that fit flexible schedules. Options include Sew Magical! Sewing and Costuming Design for ages 9–18 and Bigs & Teens Acting & Improv for ages 8–18, both priced at $250. These workshops offer homeschooled students a chance to collaborate and engage with theater in ways they might not experience otherwise.
A $30 registration fee applies to all youth classes, and families can explore payment plans and scholarships on the ECTC website.
"We are so excited about our fall classes! We have the favorites, plus new classes, and a show everyone loves – 'Alice in Wonderland!' So, follow the rabbit hole straight down to registration!" - Heath Carroll, Director of Education
These classes provide a strong foundation for more immersive experiences during the summer months.
Summer Camps
ECTC's summer camps take learning to the next level, offering intensive programs where students go from rehearsal to performance in a matter of weeks. These camps provide a deeper dive into theater arts, with formats that allow for thorough skill development.
- Mini Player Camps: Geared toward children ages 5–7, these camps focus on creative expression, basic performance skills, and building confidence, all for $250.
- Camp Broadway: Disney Dreams: A one-week program for grades 2–5, priced at $325, combining beloved Disney material with essential theater training.
- Seussical the Musical: A two-week camp for grades 2–5, priced at $675, offering students the chance to develop character, vocal, and ensemble skills in a full musical production.
- Beetlejuice JR! Musical Theatre Intensive: A three-week camp for sixth through twelfth graders, costing $1,125. This advanced camp focuses on singing, dancing, and acting, with material specifically chosen for teenage performers.
As with after-school programs, summer camps include a $30 registration fee, and flexible payment plans are available. Families can find detailed information and register through the Summer Camps section on the ECTC website.
Theater for Young Audiences
Beyond its classes and camps, ECTC connects with the community through touring productions that bring theater directly to local audiences. These performances, held at schools, community centers, and other venues, make professional-quality theater accessible to those who might not otherwise experience it.
These productions are tailored for younger audiences, blending engaging storytelling, live music, and interactive elements. Many shows incorporate educational themes and encourage audience participation, showcasing the collaborative spirit of theater.
ECTC also partners with schools to integrate these performances into classroom learning. By aligning productions with curriculum topics, these collaborations provide teachers with creative tools to inspire students and spark a love for the performing arts.
For parents interested in enrolling their children in after-school programs, homeschool workshops, or summer camps, the ECTC website offers full details on schedules, pricing, and registration. Families can also subscribe to the newsletter or follow ECTC on social media for updates and announcements.
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Visitor Information
Plan your visit with these helpful tips. Located within the Grand Boulevard at Sandestin complex, the theater offers the perfect opportunity to pair an evening of entertainment with dining and shopping, creating a full night out.
Location and Accessibility
You’ll find ECTC at 560 Grand Boulevard, Suite 200, Miramar Beach, Florida 32550, on the second floor of the Grand Boulevard at Sandestin complex. It’s situated above Williams Sonoma and directly across from Cantina Laredo. To enter, use the south side facing Highway 98, and look for the breezeway between Chubbies and Southern Tide. An elevator is available to take you to the second floor.
If you or someone in your group requires wheelchair seating, be sure to notify the theater when purchasing tickets so they can make the necessary arrangements. Convenient parking is available throughout the complex, allowing you to park once and easily access the theater and nearby restaurants.
Once you’ve figured out how to get there, securing tickets is the next step.
How to Buy Tickets
Tickets can be purchased online, by phone, or in person at the box office. Keep in mind that a processing fee applies regardless of the purchase method.
- Online: Visit EmeraldCoastTheatre.org and click on "VIEW OUR UPCOMING EVENTS" to browse shows and schedules. From there, you can select your seats and pay with a credit card.
- By Phone: Call 850-684-0323 during box office hours. This option is especially useful if you have questions about seating or need assistance.
- In Person: Stop by the box office, open Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, or visit one hour before showtime for walk-up tickets. Payments are accepted via credit cards, cash, or checks payable to Emerald Coast Theatre Company.
Discounts are available for several groups. Teachers and first responders can subscribe to the Teacher/First Responder newsletter to receive $25 off tickets. Seniors, military personnel, and children also qualify for discounts, which can be selected during online purchases. VIP Members enjoy priority booking and can reserve tickets by calling or emailing the box office. Season subscriptions offer discounted packages along with extra benefits.
Once your tickets are sorted, take advantage of the nearby dining and entertainment options to round out your visit.
Nearby Dining and Entertainment
The Grand Boulevard at Sandestin offers more than just theater - it’s a hub for dining, shopping, and leisure. Whether you’re grabbing a bite before the show or winding down afterward, there’s something for everyone.
For dining, you’ll find a range of options within walking distance, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, catering to varied tastes and budgets. Evening performances typically start between 7:30 and 8:00 PM, so plan your dinner about an hour before the show. If you’re attending a matinee, there are plenty of lunch spots to choose from as well.
Beyond dining, the shopping options at Grand Boulevard add another layer to your visit. Arrive early to explore a mix of retail stores, including national brands and local boutiques. Williams Sonoma, located directly below the theater, is a great spot to browse before or after the performance.
After the show, many restaurants and bars remain open, offering the perfect setting to chat about the performance over drinks or dessert. The pedestrian-friendly layout of Grand Boulevard makes it easy to move between venues, extending your evening naturally. Plus, the theater’s close proximity to Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort means even more dining and entertainment options are just minutes away. It’s a destination that blends entertainment, dining, and leisure seamlessly, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors in the Destin-Miramar Beach area.
Supporting ECTC and Getting Involved
Emerald Coast Theatre Company thrives on the support of its community through memberships, volunteering, and donations.
Membership Benefits
ECTC offers three VIP membership tiers, each packed with perks that not only enhance your theater experience but also support their productions. As you move up the tiers, the benefits grow - from priority ticket access to exclusive social gatherings.
VIP Membership ($600 for one, $1,200 for two):
- One ticket to each of six professional season productions with premium seating
- Eight complimentary drinks throughout the season
- 10% discount on additional tickets
- Four flex tickets for family or educational productions
- Recognition on the ECTC website and in programs
- Invitations to the Toast to the Season event and VIP Social Club gatherings
VIP+ Membership ($1,000 for one, $2,000 for two):
- All VIP benefits, plus earlier booking access
- 14 complimentary drinks
- Six flex tickets for any production or event
- First Time Friends Tickets to share with newcomers
VIP Elite Membership ($1,500 for one, $3,000 for two):
- First access to ticket booking
- Two complimentary drinks per visit
- Eight flex tickets for any production or event
- Highest seating priority
- All benefits from previous tiers
Every membership directly supports ECTC’s productions and outreach efforts. For example, each VIP membership ensures at least 30 children can attend professional theater shows. To join, visit emeraldcoasttheatre.org and head to the "Become a Member" section. Note that memberships are considered ticket purchases with added perks, not tax-deductible donations.
Beyond memberships, volunteering and donations are other meaningful ways to help ECTC flourish.
Volunteer and Donation Opportunities
Volunteers are the backbone of ECTC’s productions, contributing both behind the scenes and in public-facing roles. Nancy Sack, the Volunteer Coordinator, oversees this vital effort.
"Our volunteers are a vital force, and we are so grateful for the time, effort, and energy our volunteers give each season." - Emerald Coast Theatre Company
Longtime volunteers like Kathy and John Cray exemplify this dedication. During a busy November weekend featuring 14 performances of Shrek, the Crays worked at half of the shows.
"Volunteering for the Emerald Coast Theatre Company is a lot of fun. Come join us and enjoy the theatre and the wonderful people on this team!" - Kathy Cray, ECTC Volunteer
Volunteer opportunities include:
- Set building and painting
- Marketing and outreach assistance
- Front-of-house roles like ushering, greeting guests, serving drinks, and scanning tickets
High school students can gain hands-on arts experience, while ECTC Teen Company members can earn volunteer hours that may count toward college scholarships. To get involved, fill out the Volunteer Sign-Up Sheet on the ECTC website. For more information, you can email Nancy Sack at alansack@cox.net or contact ECTC directly at 850-684-0323 or info@emeraldcoasttheatre.org.
Tax-deductible donations are another way to make an impact. These contributions support educational programs, cover production costs, and fund community outreach. They also help keep ticket prices accessible and ensure a variety of programming for audiences of all ages.
ECTC's Role in South Walton's Arts Scene
Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC) has turned South Walton into more than just a beach destination - it’s now a thriving hub for the arts. By hosting regular performances and building partnerships, ECTC has firmly established 30A as a go-to spot for theater lovers, blending world-class productions with the area’s natural beauty. This builds on ECTC's dedication to community involvement, as previously discussed.
Collaborations and Festivals
ECTC’s collaborations with local schools and festivals bring top-tier productions to both young audiences and visitors. By working with other arts organizations across the Emerald Coast, especially during peak seasons, the company ensures a wide range of entertainment options are available. This teamwork results in a rich cultural calendar that keeps both residents and tourists engaged throughout the year.
Local businesses also play a key role in supporting ECTC’s efforts. This partnership benefits the entire South Walton economy, as theatergoers often extend their stay to enjoy the area’s beaches, restaurants, and shops. The result is a win-win for the arts and the local community.
Making South Walton an Arts Destination
ECTC’s professional productions have elevated South Walton beyond its reputation for stunning beaches. The theater’s dedication to high-quality performances draws visitors from across the Southeast, many of whom plan extended trips around show schedules. This influx of cultural tourists has become an important economic boost for the region.
With a diverse lineup of shows, ECTC appeals to a wide audience. Families can enjoy wholesome entertainment, while seasoned theater enthusiasts can experience thought-provoking dramas. From Broadway-style musicals to intimate plays, ECTC ensures South Walton can stand toe-to-toe with larger cities when it comes to attracting cultural tourists.
The company’s educational programs have also played a significant role in nurturing local talent. By training performers, technicians, and arts administrators, ECTC has created opportunities for skilled individuals to stay and work in the area. This growing pool of creative professionals has, in turn, drawn more artists and cultural entrepreneurs, further solidifying South Walton’s reputation as a welcoming place for the arts.
ECTC’s success has inspired other cultural ventures in the region. Art galleries, music venues, and literary groups have followed its lead, creating a richer cultural landscape that benefits both locals and visitors. For those looking to explore South Walton’s arts scene, resources like sowal.co offer detailed guides to the area’s offerings, showcasing the full range of experiences beyond the beach.
Conclusion
Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC) has become a key part of what makes South Walton more than just a beach destination. By offering year-round professional productions and educational programs, it has created a space where the magic of theater blends seamlessly with the charm of the coast.
What sets ECTC apart is its ability to deliver high-quality entertainment that could rival productions in major cities, while also nurturing the next generation of performers through its educational initiatives. But ECTC isn’t just about putting on shows - it’s about building a community. From partnering with local schools to collaborating with other arts organizations, the theater has become deeply connected to South Walton. It’s also a driver of local economic growth and a source of enriching experiences for families in the area.
For visitors, ECTC adds another layer to the South Walton experience. Beyond the stunning beaches, the theater offers a cultural touchpoint that enhances any trip. Whether you’re a theater lover seeking a creative escape or a local family looking for engaging entertainment, ECTC has something to offer. Resources like sowal.co can help you explore how ECTC fits into the broader South Walton experience, ensuring your visit is as memorable as possible.
ECTC is proof that exceptional theater can flourish anywhere - even in a beach town famous for its natural beauty. By supporting and attending its productions, you’re not just enjoying a night out - you’re contributing to a growing cultural movement that’s helping to redefine South Walton as a destination where the arts and nature thrive together.
FAQs
What kinds of shows does the Emerald Coast Theatre Company offer, and are they family-friendly?
The Emerald Coast Theatre Company offers an impressive variety of performances, ranging from musicals to classic plays and family-friendly productions. Over the years, they’ve brought cherished titles to life, such as Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, The Glass Menagerie, and Annie.
Beyond the mainstage, the theater also provides educational programs and youth classes, creating opportunities for people of all ages to connect with the arts. Whether you’re organizing a fun family day or a special date night, this theater has something to entertain and inspire everyone.
How can I sign my child up for youth programs or summer camps at Emerald Coast Theatre Company, and are scholarships available?
To enroll your child in youth programs or summer camps at Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC), head to their website to complete the registration. Keep in mind, there’s a $30 non-refundable registration fee due at the time of signing up. To make things easier, payment plans are also available.
ECTC provides scholarship opportunities, such as the Paul Londe Scholarship and Educational Fund, to help offset the costs of classes and productions. Some camps even offer partial or full scholarships, often called "camperships." If you're interested, it’s a good idea to reach out to ECTC early for details and to apply for these scholarships.
What perks come with a VIP membership at the Emerald Coast Theatre Company, and how does it help support their mission?
A VIP membership at the Emerald Coast Theatre Company offers a bundle of great benefits. You'll get one ticket to each of the six professional season productions, early access to ticket sales, premium seating choices, and an 8-drink complimentary package. Plus, members are acknowledged in the program and on the website, and enjoy discounts on extra ticket purchases.
By joining as a VIP, you're not just treating yourself to exceptional theater experiences - you’re also playing a key role in supporting the theater’s mission. Your membership helps ensure the continuation of top-notch productions and educational programs that inspire and entertain the Emerald Coast community, strengthening the arts in the area.
