Beetlejuice

The Ghost with the Most Returns to Tampa's Premier Stage

Beetlejuice: The Musical brings its macabre mayhem to the David A. Straz Jr Center for the Performing Arts on Friday, July 10th at 7:30 PM. This Broadway hit transforms Tim Burton's beloved dark comedy into a spectacular theatrical experience packed with show-stopping numbers and irreverent humor. The Friday night crowd at the Straz Center creates an electric atmosphere, especially for productions that blend comedy with supernatural spectacle like this one.

What to Expect:
The Straz Center's Carol Morsani Hall provides the perfect grand setting for Beetlejuice's elaborate staging and technical wizardry. Expect jaw-dropping set pieces, costume changes that happen in the blink of an eye, and musical numbers that range from hauntingly beautiful to hilariously chaotic. This production doesn't shy away from adult humor while maintaining the whimsical spirit that made the original film a cult classic, making it ideal for date nights and groups of friends looking for something different from typical musical theater fare.

Insider Tips:
• Doors open 75 minutes before showtime - arrive early to grab drinks at the lobby bars and avoid intermission crowds
• The Straz Center's bag policy is strict: keep bags under 12" x 6" x 12" or go bag-free for the express security line
• Maestro's Restaurant inside the venue takes reservations for pre-show dining, but book well in advance for Friday performances
• The show features strobe lights and fog effects that create amazing atmosphere but might affect sensitive viewers
• Intermission runs about 20 minutes - perfect time to stretch legs on the Riverwalk just outside
• Orchestra seats offer the best view of the intricate set details, while mezzanine provides excellent sightlines for the full stage picture

Venue Details:
• Security screening begins 75 minutes before curtain, with bag-free guests using the faster express line
• The venue offers multiple bars and concession stands throughout the lobbies to minimize wait times
• Maestro's Restaurant provides full-service dining, while grab-and-go options are available at various concession points
• The Straz Center features accessible seating and services throughout the facility
• Air conditioning keeps the venue comfortable, but bring a light layer as some guests find it chilly
• The venue's riverside location offers beautiful views of the Hillsborough River from the lobby areas

Getting There:
The Straz Center sits in the heart of downtown Tampa, easily accessible from major highways. The Anchor Garage at 109 W. Fortune Street offers the most convenient parking, just steps from the venue entrance. William F. Poe Parking Garage provides another close option, while several surface lots along the surrounding streets offer more budget-friendly alternatives. Public transportation connects through multiple bus stops, with the closest at MacInnes Place & Fortune Street just 79 meters from the venue. For rideshare pickups after the show, head to the north side of the building near Fortune Street to avoid the south-side congestion.

Local Scene:
Downtown Tampa's theater district comes alive on show nights, with several spots perfect for pre-curtain dining. Flatbread & Butter sits just 58 meters away, offering artisanal options for a quick bite before the 7:30 curtain. Gaudin Kitchen & Bar provides a more upscale dining experience 150 meters from the venue, ideal for making the evening feel special. For post-show drinks, the area offers several options within walking distance, though many downtown establishments close relatively early on weeknights. The proximity to the Tampa Riverwalk means couples can extend their evening with a romantic stroll along the water after experiencing Beetlejuice's supernatural shenanigans. The concentration of cultural venues in this area, including the nearby Tampa Museum of Art, creates a sophisticated atmosphere that perfectly complements a night at the theater.