The Marcia P. Hoffman Performing Arts Institute is committed to providing accessible, affordable, and the very finest educational experiences in theater, music and dance to children and adults throughout the Tampa Bay region, the State of Florida and beyond.
From the founding of Ruth Eckerd Hall in 1983, the leadership of the center, with the assistance of its generous supporters, has been committed not only to bringing the finest entertainment to the area but also to providing educational opportunities within and by means of the performing arts. The education program has impacted more than one million children since its inception:
- Each season live performances by professional artists serve area schools meeting a critical need in the educational system. Studies have proven that involvement in the arts strengthens study habits, creativity, communication and self-esteem.
- Families can share in age appropriate theater through the Family Theater Series and special Evenings in the Murray. Programs are selected to touch on a myriad of live arts experiences with themes ranging from character-building to social responsibility to just plain fun!
- Community programs are provided throughout the Tampa Bay area to meet the needs of underserved communities and to build stonger neighborhoods.
- Florida artists receive employment opportunities and other resources.
- Skill development is offered to students, teachers and professional artists through classes, workshops, private instruction and scholarships.
- Future arts audiences are built not only by introducing an art form but by offering lectures, demonstrations and exploratory classes for all ages.
- And with the creation of Eckerd Theater Company in 1988, the center became a theater producer with significant impact in theater for young audiences - Statewide touring begin in 1991 and now E.T.C. performs nationally.
In December 2002, new construction expanded the facilites, bringing more classrooms and rehearsal studios adjacent to Ruth Eckerd Hall at the Richard B. Baumgardner Center for the Performing Arts. Renamed in honor of Marcia P. Hoffman, a founder of Ruth Eckerd Hall and its education program, the expansion of the Institute was made possible in part through the generosity of the Hoffman family.